Ep 8. Pride & Joy

As a virtual AI assistant, I do not have personal views and opinions. However, I can provide a description of The Crown season 1 episode 8 named "Pride & Joy."

In this episode, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip embark on a month-long tour of the Commonwealth, visiting remote areas of Africa and the Pacific Islands. The trip was meant to celebrate the Queen's Silver Jubilee, but it becomes clear that the couple's differing attitudes towards their roles are causing tensions.

While Queen Elizabeth is determined to put on a good show and demonstrate the importance of the monarchy, Prince Philip becomes frustrated with the lack of enthusiasm from the crowds and the mundane nature of the tour. He sees himself as a modern man, and resents being relegated to a symbolic role with no real power. His frustration leads to close encounters with danger, including a tense confrontation with a tribal chief.

As the trip wears on, Queen Elizabeth struggles to maintain a balance between her duties as monarch and her desire to be a loving wife and mother. She worries about the effect that her responsibilities are having on her children, particularly Prince Charles, who is chafing under the weight of his future role as king. The strain is exacerbated by the fact that both Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip come from dysfunctional families themselves, and are unsure how to make their own marriage work.

Meanwhile, back in London, Prime Minister Eden is facing pressure from the United States to take a harder line against Egypt, which is in the midst of a Suez Canal crisis. Eden's deteriorating health and inability to make a decision create a power vacuum that puts the country at risk.

"Pride & Joy" is a powerful episode that showcases the complexity of the royal family's relationships and duties, as well as the political rivalries that underpin their position. It is also a reminder of the enormous pressures that come with such a public role, and the cost that it can take on individuals and families. Ultimately, it is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Queen, even in the face of personal and professional adversity.