Maude Season 1 Episode 9 Maude's Dilemma - Part I

Maude's Dilemma - Part I is the ninth episode of the first season of the popular sitcom Maude. The episode is one of the most highly acclaimed episodes of the series and is considered one of the most important episodes in television history due to its groundbreaking content.

The episode begins with Maude (played by Beatrice Arthur) finding out that she is pregnant at the age of 47. Maude is delighted at first but soon realizes that she is faced with a difficult decision. She already has three children and feels that another child would be an undue burden on her and her husband Walter (played by Bill Macy).

Maude is torn between having an abortion or keeping the baby. She is also wary of telling her family and friends about her pregnancy. Maude's daughter Carol (played by Adrienne Barbeau) is supportive of her mother's decision but also worried about how the news will affect Maude's relationship with her husband.

The episode deals with the serious issue of abortion, a topic that was not widely discussed on television at the time. Maude's dilemma reflects the larger political and social issues of the time, as the United States was in the midst of the Women's Liberation Movement and the fight for reproductive rights.

The episode does not take a definitive stance on abortion but instead presents a nuanced and complicated perspective on the issue. Maude is conflicted about her decision but ultimately decides to seek an abortion, which sets up the second part of the episode.

Throughout the episode, the characters deal with the moral, emotional and societal ramifications of the decision to have an abortion. The episode is notable for its frank and honest portrayal of the issue, which was largely ignored by other television programs at the time.

Maude's Dilemma - Part I is a powerful and thought-provoking episode of the groundbreaking series. Its exploration of the abortion issue is a testament to the show's commitment to tackling important issues and to the skill of its talented cast and crew. The episode remains relevant and highly regarded today, and it is a must-see for fans of the series and for anyone interested in the history of television.