North & South discussion

~ Episode Three Discussions:

Okay, I guess I'll kick off the discussion here - one question that's been floating around in my mind for a bit is this one; which do you think is the happiest moment in Episode Three? It's been startlingly apparent while we were busy counting smiles that this isn't the happiest of episodes, and clearly there are a lot of sad moments to choose from. So I'd like to see what you all think is the happiest moment! :)

The Great Exhibition? It is one of those moments when it becomes apparent that Margaret has sort of gone to the other side, that she sympathised and understood both sides now rather than thinking one heaven and the other hell. I don't know if I would call it 'happy' precisely...

When Frederick came home. Seeing their son/brother after so much time must be the happiest thing for them even if it was tainted with fear for his safety and Mrs. Hale's death.

I think the Great Exhibition was a really nice moment in terms of character development for Margaret, but it isn't exactly a happy moment... it might have been, if not for Henry needling at Mr. Thornton. -.- Still, I can see where you're coming from, Emily! :)

My thoughts were tending more towards the moment Samanta suggested... I thought perhaps that moment where Margaret corrects Fred in telling him that Mr. Thornton is a gentleman, and then they begin discussing his life in Spain. :) Of course the knowledge of their mother's condition is hanging over them somewhat, but it's nice to hear Margaret defending Mr. Thornton's character, and the two of them both smile in that scene, it has some nice moments between them.

Both of those are nice moments.

Ok, I'm finally up to episode three. Watched it two days ago. One episode left to go....
Fred's homecoming is very sweet. The joy of seeing him again was palpable.
I love the Great Exhibition scene! It's a perfect way to show how much Margaret is already siding with Milton/John. Henry's arrogance vilifies him here. This scene makes movie Henry worse than book Henry, but I love the competitive charge between suitors this scene has! if looks or words could kill... It makes us root for John and hate Henry.
I couldn't help laughing at the irony of the very last scene. Margaret is thanking him for saving her from the inquest. And basically thanking him for overlooking her blatant lie to the police. So what does Thornton do? He lies right back! lol! When he says his foolish passion for her is over I yelled at the TV screen "Liar!" They are officially both liars now. :)

As a character, Margaret is accused of being haughty, and it couldn't be more evident than the way she treats Mason the police officer! Poor guy - just trying to get his job done. She certainly puts him in his place - and does it twice!