Ep 5. Downton Abbey 6: Episode 4
- January 24, 2016
Downton Abbey 6: Episode 4 is the fifth episode of the sixth and final season of the historical drama television series Downton Abbey. The episode originally aired on January 24, 2016, as a part of Masterpiece Theatre season 46.
In this episode, tensions between Mary and Edith reach an all-time high as Edith continues to struggle with her place in the world. Meanwhile, Lord Merton returns to Downton with some surprising news for Isobel, and Anna and Bates try to come to terms with their past.
The focus of the episode is the ongoing feud between Mary and Edith; while their relationship has always been fraught with tension, things reach a boiling point in this episode. Edith continues to feel like the outsider in her own family, and Mary is still feeling the sting of the revelation that Marigold is actually Edith's daughter. The tension between the sisters is palpable, and the episode explores the toll that their rivalry takes on them and those around them.
Meanwhile, Lord Merton returns to Downton with news that he has been diagnosed with a serious illness. While Isobel is initially cautious about getting involved, she ultimately decides to throw caution to the wind and stand by Lord Merton during this difficult time. Their storyline is a touching tribute to the power of love and companionship in old age, and provides a welcome respite from the drama surrounding Mary and Edith.
Anna and Bates, who have been through a lot over the course of the series, also have their moment in the spotlight in this episode. They are still dealing with the aftermath of Anna's rape, and are struggling to move forward and heal. The episode explores the ways in which trauma can affect a relationship, and the difficulty of finding your way back to each other after a crisis.
Throughout the episode, Downton Abbey continues to grapple with the changing times. The world is rapidly changing, and the characters are forced to confront new ideas and attitudes that challenge their long-held beliefs. The episode explores themes of class, gender, and social inequality, as the characters struggle to adapt to a world that is rapidly leaving their old way of life behind.
Overall, Downton Abbey 6: Episode 4 is a moving and emotionally powerful episode that explores some of the most challenging themes of the series. From the tension between Mary and Edith to the touching storyline between Isobel and Lord Merton, the episode is a testament to the power of great storytelling and complex, nuanced characters. As the series approaches its conclusion, it is clear that Downton Abbey has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape, and will be remembered for years to come as one of the greatest television dramas of all time.
