Masterpiece Season 28 Episode 5 The Unknown Soldier (1)

In season 28, episode 5 of Masterpiece, titled "The Unknown Soldier (1)", viewers are transported to the turn of the 20th century, just as the First World War is on the horizon. The episode centers around the newly formed British Secret Service Bureau, whose sole purpose is to gather intelligence on Germany and its allies.

The show follows two main characters: Thomas Edward Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, and his friend St. John Philby. Both men work for the Secret Service Bureau and are tasked with the mission of traveling to Arabia to assess the Ottoman Empire's military strength.

The episode opens with Lawrence meeting with his superior, Sir Mansfield Smith-Cumming, also known as "C", who informs him of his upcoming mission to Arabia. Lawrence initially appears hesitant but ultimately accepts the assignment, knowing that it could lead to a significant breakthrough.

Meanwhile, Philby is also preparing for his own mission, which involves traveling to Vienna to gather information on German military movements. He, too, is aware of the gravity of his assignment and the implications it could have on the war effort.

As the episode progresses, viewers are given glimpses of the two men's experiences as they carry out their respective missions. Lawrence spends much of his time negotiating with tribal leaders in Arabia and attempting to gain intel on Ottoman military movements.

Philby, on the other hand, is forced to contend with the bureaucracy of government organizations as he seeks to gather intel in Vienna. He is often met with red tape and rival agents eager to sabotage his efforts.

The tension in the episode builds as the two men encounter various setbacks and obstacles. Lawrence is taken prisoner by the Ottoman Empire at one point, while Philby finds himself at odds with his superiors in the Secret Service.

Despite these challenges, both men are undeterred in their pursuit of crucial intelligence. Their dedication to their missions is admirable, and viewers will find themselves rooting for them as the episode progresses.

Overall, "The Unknown Soldier (1)" is a gripping episode that offers an inside look into the early days of the Secret Service Bureau and the dangerous missions that its agents undertook. The tension is palpable, and the characters are believable and well-developed. Fans of historical dramas and spy thrillers are sure to enjoy this episode of Masterpiece.