Victoria Season 1 Episode 8
Victoria
Season 1

Ep 8. Young England

  • TV-PG
  • October 9, 2016
  • 47 min
  • 8.3  (673)

Young England explores the aftermath of Prince Ernest's visit to Buckingham Palace. Victoria is heartbroken by his departure, but she's unable to dwell on her feelings for long when she's faced with a political crisis. Parliament has rejected the proposal to repeal the Corn Laws, and tensions are running high among the working-class population.

The episode opens with Victoria receiving a letter from Prince Ernst, expressing his affection for her and his regret for leaving so suddenly. The Queen is clearly torn between her personal desires and her duty as the ruler of the country. However, she has little time to dwell on her predicament when she learns of the Corn Laws crisis.

The Corn Laws were a set of tariffs and restrictions on imported grain that kept the prices artificially high. The laws were implemented to protect British farmers, but they had a devastating impact on the working-class population, who relied on affordable grain for their basic needs. The repeal of the Corn Laws was a highly controversial issue, with supporters arguing that it would boost the economy and improve the lives of the poor, while opponents claimed that it would destroy the agricultural industry.

Victoria summons her Prime Minister, Lord Melbourne, to discuss the situation. Melbourne informs her that the repeal bill has been defeated in Parliament, and that the government is facing a vote of no-confidence. The Queen is dismayed by the news, but she's determined to take a stand on the issue.

Victoria decides to invite the young leaders of the reform movement, known as "Young England," to the palace to hear their views on the Corn Laws. The Young England politicians are a group of wealthy, aristocratic men who advocate for social reform and a return to traditional values. Victoria is intrigued by their idealism and their passion for change, but she's also wary of their conservative views.

The Young England members arrive at the palace, and Victoria is struck by their youthful energy and charm. She listens attentively to their arguments, but she's disappointed that they don't support the repeal of the Corn Laws. They argue that the working-class population should be protected, but they also believe that the agricultural industry is vital to the country's prosperity.

Victoria is frustrated by their lack of a clear solution, and she challenges them to come up with a proposal that will satisfy both sides of the debate. She also confronts them about their privileged position and their lack of understanding of the struggles of the poor. The Young England members are taken aback by her frankness, but they're also impressed by her intelligence and determination.

Meanwhile, tensions are rising on the streets of London, as the working-class population becomes increasingly desperate. Riots break out, and Melbourne fears that the situation could spiral out of control. He urges Victoria to take swift action, but she's hesitant to use force against her own people.

As the crisis deepens, Victoria receives some unexpected support from an unlikely source. Her former governess, Louise Lehzen, pays her a visit and urges her to trust her instincts and follow her heart. Lehzen reminds Victoria that she has a duty to her subjects, but she also has a responsibility to herself and her own happiness.

Feeling emboldened by Lehzen's words, Victoria decides to take a bold step. She summons the leaders of the two political factions to the palace and proposes a compromise solution to the Corn Laws crisis. Her proposal is met with skepticism and resistance, but she's determined to make it work.

Young England is a powerful episode that explores the complexities of political power and personal desire. It's a testament to the strength and intelligence of Queen Victoria, who is willing to take risks and make difficult decisions for the good of her country and herself. It's also a poignant reminder of the struggles and sacrifices of the working-class population, who have often been ignored and marginalized in the halls of power. With its engaging plot, richly drawn characters, and beautiful period setting, Young England is a must-see episode of Victoria.

Description
Watch Victoria - Young England (s1 e8) Online - Watch online anytime: Stream, Download, Buy, Rent
Victoria, Season 1 Episode 8, is available to watch free on NBC, PBS and stream on ITV. You can also stream, download, buy, rent Victoria on demand at Amazon Prime, Amazon, Vudu, Google Play, Apple TV online.
  • First Aired
    October 9, 2016
  • Content Rating
    TV-PG
  • Runtime
    47 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    8.3  (673)