Ep 21. The Scholar

The Waltons is an American television series that aired from 1972 to 1981. It is set in rural Virginia during the Great Depression and World War II and follows the lives of the Walton family. In season 1 episode 21, titled The Scholar, the focus is on the eldest Walton son, John-Boy.

The episode begins with John-Boy returning from a trip to Richmond where he has been trying to sell his stories to magazines. However, he is disappointed to find that none of the magazines are interested. He is in a bad mood and takes it out on his family, snapping at his siblings and mother for seemingly no reason.

It is revealed that John-Boy has been feeling down because he is struggling with his writing. He feels like he isn't good enough and won't be able to make a living from it. His mother comforts him and tells him that he is a wonderful writer and that he just needs to keep at it.

Meanwhile, a new teacher arrives in town and she takes a particular interest in John-Boy. Miss Becker is a young woman from the city who is passionate about education. She recognizes John-Boy's academic potential and encourages him to apply for a scholarship to a college in Charlottesville.

John-Boy is reluctant at first, believing that he would never be able to afford college. However, Miss Becker convinces him to apply and even gives him a book on how to write a successful application essay.

As John-Boy works on his application, he begins to doubt himself again. He feels like he doesn't deserve the scholarship and that there are other kids in town who are more deserving. He even suggests to Miss Becker that she should give the scholarship to another student.

Miss Becker refuses to listen to John-Boy's self-doubt and tells him that he is the most deserving student in the school. She believes in him and encourages him to believe in himself as well.

As the application deadline approaches, John-Boy becomes more and more nervous. He spends hours working on his essay and even puts off his chores on the farm to finish it. When the day finally comes, he hands in his application and waits anxiously for the results.

A few weeks later, Miss Becker arrives at the Walton's house with some exciting news. John-Boy has been awarded the scholarship to attend college in Charlottesville. The family is overjoyed and John-Boy is finally able to see the value in his own abilities and hard work.

The episode ends with John-Boy packing his bags and saying goodbye to his family. He is nervous but excited for what the future holds. Miss Becker tells him that she will always be there to support him and that she can't wait to see what he will accomplish. The family waves goodbye as John-Boy drives away, ready to start the next chapter of his life.

Overall, The Scholar is a heartwarming episode that highlights the importance of believing in yourself and the power of education. John-Boy's journey is relatable and inspiring, making it a memorable episode in The Waltons series.