As Burgundy’s threats arrive on England’s shores, Lizzie finds herself caught between loyalty to her mother and to Henry. Get a sneak peek of Sunday’s new The White Princess.
Since The White Princess began, we’ve known that Henry VII’s reign is in serious contestation. Time and time again, his attempts to secure his crown have been met with obstruction and sabotage. Clearly, last week’s episode models the same pattern.
In “Burgundy”, Lizzie gives birth to Prince Arthur and the Tudors/Lancasters celebrate! Henry’s dynasty is secured with a son to follow him. The Yorks could finally get on board, after all, Arthur is half White Rose. Surely, this would convince the Duchess of Burgundy that peace is in the long term interest of all. Now that Henry feels more confident, he could release Teddy from the Tower. But what most excites me is the possibility that Henry and Lizzie could become closer and maybe even come to like one another.
Unfortunately, all of these possibilities are upset in the course of the episode. Uncle Jasper’s mission to Burgundy is hopelessly botched when the Duchess’ step daughter is killed in a horse racing accident against Lord Strange (the pompous, ridiculous man that he is). Teddy is still imprisoned, even though Maggie and Lizzie are allowed to visit. Elizabeth Woodville and her three youngest daughters are on house arrest at Bermondsey Abbey.
And even though Lizzie has her coronation and is crowned Queen, things between her and Henry are still so tense. Henry wants Lizzie’s loyalty and love, but really can’t count on it. Yet, both realize that they are who their mothers created them to be. And yes, both start to push against their mothers. Henry questions Lady Margaret’s advice for his domestic and foreign policy; Lizzie struggles against Elizabeth’s demand that she write to the Duchess of Burgundy and ask for military support. How can Lizzie plot against Henry when this means she takes her son’s birthright away? We end the episode with Henry, Lizzie, and Arthur all together, sleeping in the same room, and a very sweet embrace between King and Queen.
(For more, check out our full recap of “Burgundy” HERE.)
In this Sunday’s episode “The Pretender” (written by Sarah Dollard and Emma Frost, directed by Alex Kalymnios):
The York princesses are strategically married off to strengthen the Tudor cause, but further political challenges are on the horizon. When King Henry finds himself back on the battlefield to protect his reign, Lizzie learns that the threats they face may be closer to home. (via STARZ)
Well, we know Cecily is extra excited to get married to John Welles, Lady Margaret’s half-brother. (*eyeroll*) However, I’m incredible worried about Maggie. She’s so sweet and loves her brother so much. I would hate for her to be even more unhappy.
Speaking of Maggie and Teddy, this sneak peek from the upcoming episode shows us that things are just as tense. The Duchess of Burgundy has struck, calling on people to rally behind Teddy, and Henry wants to lash out. However, Lizzie has an alternate suggestion.
I feel so bad for Teddy. He’s so young, and really just a pawn that keeps being pulled back and forth. And history tells us that, as a result, he does meet an unfortunate end. Also, I want so badly for Henry and Lizzie to fall in love! Is there any hope at all?
Take a look at 10+ images from The White Princess and make sure to live tweet with @WeSoNerdy “The Pretender” with me this Sunday, May 7 at 8:00pm ET on STARZ!
