Ep 6. Gelignite

In The Crown season 1 episode 6 titled "Gelignite," tensions rise between the British royal family and the locals of Aberfan, a small Welsh community, following a tragic disaster. The episode opens with news of an explosion at a coal mine in Aberfan, which causes a landslide and buries a nearby school, killing 116 children and 28 adults. Queen Elizabeth II (Claire Foy) and Prince Philip (Matt Smith) struggle to find an appropriate way to respond to the tragedy, with the Queen ultimately deciding to visit the affected families herself.

As the Queen and Prince Philip travel to Aberfan, tensions run high as local protesters confront them over what they perceive as a lack of concern and action from the royal family. The two are initially met with hostility, but after visiting the town and meeting with the families of the victims, they both begin to understand the gravity and emotional toll of the tragedy.

Meanwhile, Princess Margaret (Vanessa Kirby) is feeling restless and unfulfilled in her role as a royal after being denied permission to marry her lover, Peter Townsend. She turns to partying and heavy drinking, causing concern among her family and staff. However, when news of the Aberfan tragedy reaches her, she realizes the importance of her position and makes a heartfelt plea for donations to aid the town.

Throughout the episode, flashbacks are shown to the lead up to the Aberfan disaster, illustrating the negligence and lack of attention given to the safety of the coal mine and the surrounding area. A government inquiry is held to determine the cause of the disaster, but it ultimately proves inconclusive and no one is held responsible.

The episode ends with the Queen reflecting on her visit to Aberfan and the power and responsibility of her position as monarch. She realizes that in times of tragedy, the royal family must serve as a symbol of support and comfort for the people, and vows to do better in the future.

Overall, "Gelignite" is a poignant and emotional episode that highlights the complexities and challenges faced by the British monarchy. It showcases the impact of a tragedy like Aberfan on both the victims and those in power, and the importance of empathy and action in times of crisis.