Ep 1. Method and Madness (Pilot)

Set in the early 1900s, The Knick is a medical drama that follows the groundbreaking surgeons and staff at New York's Knickerbocker Hospital. The first episode, "Method and Madness," introduces us to the hospital and the characters who work there, as well as the societal and medical challenges they face.

The episode begins with Dr. John Thackery (Clive Owen), the chief surgeon at the Knick, performing a risky operation on a pregnant woman. Thackery is a brilliant but troubled physician who has turned to cocaine to cope with the stresses of his job and personal life. Despite his addiction, Thackery is respected by his colleagues and considered a pioneer in the field of surgery.

We also meet Dr. Algernon Edwards (André Holland), a skilled surgeon who has recently been hired by the Knick. Edwards is an African American doctor, which is a rarity at the time, and he faces discrimination and hostility from some of his colleagues and patients. However, Thackery recognizes Edwards' talent and the two form an uneasy alliance.

Meanwhile, the Knick's wealthy benefactor, Cornelia Robertson (Juliet Rylance), is tasked with investigating a possible outbreak of typhoid fever in the city's immigrant population. She enlists the help of an unlikely ally, Sister Harriet (Cara Seymour), a nun who runs an illegal abortion clinic out of the Knick's basement.

As the episode progresses, we see the various characters dealing with their own personal struggles. Thackery's drug use leads to a violent outburst in the hospital, and he is forced to confront the consequences of his addiction. Edwards faces racism from the Knick's other surgeons, who refuse to let him operate on a white patient. Cornelia struggles with the expectations placed on her as a wealthy socialite, and Sister Harriet is arrested for performing abortions.

"Method and Madness" sets the stage for the rest of the season, introducing us to the main characters and their respective storylines. The episode also explores the medical practices of the time, which are often gruesome and barbaric compared to modern standards. Overall, The Knick is a gripping and intense drama that offers a unique glimpse into the world of early 20th century medicine.