This episode serves as a reminder that Outlander is at its very best when it is character driven. The best and most memorable installments are often times where plot wise, little to nothing happens, allowing the viewer to really hone in on each characters emotions, feelings, motivations, and desires. By the Pricking of My Thumbs is a solid episode, but is loaded down with plot points designed to serve future episodes. There is nothing inherently wrong with this but it does take away from some of the character moments that have made the series what it is.
Notwithstanding, the episode isn't without its high points. The Duke of Sandringham is a welcome addition. In a world populated by aggressive characters, he stands out as someone who appears weak and effeminate yet is powerful, untrustworthy and likely a dangerous person to make an enemy out of. Jamie and Claire's relationship hits a different mark in this episode as well. You can see its evolution; they are beginning to function as a unit, with both Claire and Jaime working the Duke of Sandringham to move forward the Petition of Complaint. And of course, you have to mention Claire's confrontation with Laghorie. Claire really stands out in this episode, her assertiveness, her command of the people around her. She's come into her own in the past few episodes but as is often the case in Outlander, there is always a cost associated with efforts to challenge the orthodoxy. On to the Witch Trial!
Notwithstanding, the episode isn't without its high points. The Duke of Sandringham is a welcome addition. In a world populated by aggressive characters, he stands out as someone who appears weak and effeminate yet is powerful, untrustworthy and likely a dangerous person to make an enemy out of. Jamie and Claire's relationship hits a different mark in this episode as well. You can see its evolution; they are beginning to function as a unit, with both Claire and Jaime working the Duke of Sandringham to move forward the Petition of Complaint. And of course, you have to mention Claire's confrontation with Laghorie. Claire really stands out in this episode, her assertiveness, her command of the people around her. She's come into her own in the past few episodes but as is often the case in Outlander, there is always a cost associated with efforts to challenge the orthodoxy. On to the Witch Trial!