The Gilded Age Season 3, Episode 2, titled “What the Papers Say,” explores the complex and traditional theme of arranged marriage while continuing the dramatic family dynamics introduced in the premiere episode. The episode centers around Gladys Russell (played by Taissa Farmiga), who rebels against her mother Bertha’s plans to arrange a prestigious marriage for her.
After running away to her suitor Billy Carlton’s home, Gladys’ choices clash with her mother’s ambitions. Bertha firmly rejects Billy as a worthy match despite Gladys’ affection for him, illustrating the conflict between love and social status.
Series creator Julian Fellowes explains the enduring uncertainties in marriage across generations, emphasizing that even with modern advances, marriage remains partly a “crapshoot” driven by luck and discovery. The episode also showcases the tensions within the Russell family, especially with George Russell (Morgan Spector), who struggles with his promise to Gladys to allow her to marry for love.
The return of Hector, the Duke of Buckingham, by the episode’s end adds a dramatic twist, signaling possible new challenges for Gladys as her mother’s influence remains strong. Fellowes notes that arranged marriages, both historically and today, have varying outcomes, some leading to genuine happiness despite their complexities.
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With Billy calling off his relationship at the last minute, the episode sets the stage for intense emotional and social conflicts to come, highlighting the series’ focus on power, influence, and personal choice in the Gilded Age’s elite society.
