Ep 16. In the Company of Women

In the Company of Women is the 16th episode of the 13th season of Murdoch Mysteries. The episode centers around Detective Murdoch and his investigation into the death of a suffragette who had been advocating for women's rights in Toronto. Her death is met with suspicion, and Murdoch is tasked with finding the truth behind her demise.

The episode starts off with a flashback to a suffragette rally that took place a year prior. The leaders of the suffragette movement are shown making their case for why women deserve the right to vote, while the men in attendance jeer and throw objects at them. The suffragettes are determined, however, and continue their protests despite the opposition.

Fast forward to the present day, and the suffragette movement has gained momentum. The atmosphere in Toronto has changed, and more and more women are speaking out for their rights. The suffragette who is at the center of the episode, Emily, is shown addressing a rally of women in support of the vote. However, just as she finishes her speech, a man attacks her and she is left lying unconscious on the ground.

Detective Murdoch is quick to take up the case and starts by questioning those who were at the rally. He discovers that many of the women who were there had been threatened and intimidated by men prior to the event. However, despite the threats, they were determined to attend and make their voices heard. Murdoch also learns that Emily had been receiving threatening letters in the weeks leading up to the rally.

Murdoch's investigation leads him to a variety of suspects. He questions an anti-suffragette who openly opposes women's rights, and also a man with personal connections to Emily. The more Murdoch digs, the more he realizes that the suffragette movement is on the verge of something big, and that Emily's death could have far-reaching consequences.

The episode is notable for its focus on women's rights and the suffragette movement. It highlights the struggles faced by women at the turn of the century, and the lengths they went to in order to gain recognition and equal treatment. Through Emily's character, the episode also explores the personal toll that activism can take, and the dangers that come with challenging the status quo.

Overall, In the Company of Women is a compelling and thought-provoking episode that blends historical context with a suspenseful murder mystery. It is a testament to the enduring popularity of Murdoch Mysteries, which continues to attract viewers with its unique blend of history, crime, and character-driven storytelling.