Ep 8. Sexual Harrasment (aka There Once Was a Blank from Nantucket)

This episode of Strangers with Candy is titled "Sexual Harassment (aka There Once Was a Blank from Nantucket)." The show revolves around Jerri Blank, a 46-year-old ex-con and high school freshman, as she navigates the complicated world of high school, family, and relationships.

In this episode, Jerri finds herself the victim of sexual harassment by her poetry teacher, Mr. Jellineck. He begins by having her read a suggestive poem in front of the class and then makes inappropriate advances towards her both in and out of the classroom. Jerri is initially flattered by the attention, but soon realizes that Mr. Jellineck's behavior is inappropriate and wrong.

Jerri confides in her friends, Orlando and Tammi, about what's happening and they encourage her to report Mr. Jellineck to the school's principal. Meanwhile, Principal Blackman is dealing with his own sexual harassment scandal when he is accused of having an affair with a female student.

As the episodes unfolds, the characters grapple with the complex issues surrounding sexual harassment. Jerri must decide whether to report Mr. Jellineck and risk ruining his career or keep quiet and endure his advances. Principal Blackman must deal with the fallout from his affair and the school's reputation. And Orlando and Tammi confront their own prejudices and biases as they support their friend.

Throughout the episode, there are many humorous and absurd moments that are typical of Strangers with Candy. For example, Jerri visits a psychic who tells her that she's been sexually harassed in a past life and that she needs to confront her harasser in order to move on. The show also pokes fun at the way that sexual harassment is handled by institutions like schools and workplaces, showing the bureaucratic red tape and insensitivity that often accompanies such accusations.

Overall, "Sexual Harassment (aka There Once Was a Blank from Nantucket)" tackles a serious topic with humor and nuance. It's a reminder that sexual harassment can happen to anyone, regardless of age or gender, and that it's important to speak out and seek help when it does.