An Offer From a Gentleman… or is it?
Dearest gentle reader, spring has returned and with this new season comes a new season of Bridgerton. The first half of the highly anticipated fourth season of this well-loved show was released on Netflix at the beginning of February, and viewers have already begun raving – or critiquing – the events of this season.
Given that season four would be focusing on Benedict Bridgerton, many viewers were eager to see how writers would craft a storyline for the witty second eldest Bridgerton brother. With the introduction of many new characters, such as Sophie Baek, Lady Araminta Gun and her daughters Rosamund and Posy Li, this season had much to be expected. The Cinderella inspired storyline, Lady Bridgerton’s masquerade ball, Benedict’s chase for the elusive Lady in Silver: season four of Bridgerton has brought comedic storylines, stunning ballgowns and the characteristic yearning that all Bridgerton viewers adore.
Season four began with viewers diving into the lesser-known quarters of the maids and servants of Bridgerton house, exploring Mrs Wilson’s role as the head of staff. The charming footman John of the Bridgerton family also returns, already receiving much love on and off screen. Alfie, the witty footman of the Penwood household is a welcome character introduction for season four, providing quips and remarks. There is a heavier emphasis on the work of these unsung heroes in this season, providing a fuller picture of life in Regency society.
Could we argue that Bridgerton has redeemed itself?
This season also explores the lesser-known Bridgerton siblings, particularly Hyacinth. The sisterly relationship between Eloise and Hyacinth presents a comedic contrast between Eloise’s evasion of society and aspiration to become a spinster, with Hyacinth’s eagerness to enter society and secretly attend her mother’s masquerade ball. The presentation of sisterhood in this season provides a sincere familial storyline, which is an engaging development for both Eloise and Hyacinth’s characters.
Could we argue that Bridgerton has redeemed itself after the supposed limited success of Penelope and Colin Bridgerton’s storyline in season three? Collider writer Jake Hodges confirms that season four of Bridgerton has seen a 54% increase in viewership from season three, evidently a successful start to this new season.
Independent’s Ellie Muir argues that this season boasts “the best Bridgerton romance” since the romance of Daphne and the Duke in the very first season of Bridgerton. Indeed, the masquerade ball in the first episode does present a fairy-tale romance between Benedict and the Lady in Silver. Perhaps some romantic escapism is just what viewers need this time of year, as winter appears to still be clinging on.
Season four is likely to receive critique for this direction of Benedict’s character
However, some argue that season four has not reached its full potential. Time magazine’s Judy Berman argues that this season of Bridgerton “plays it too safe” regarding Benedict’s bisexuality. Confirmed in the previous season, Benedict pursued relationships with both women and men of the ‘ton’, and viewers were keen to see representation of a bisexual character in such a popular TV series. Whether it be historically implausible, or the writers’ choice of a differing storyline, season four is likely to receive critique for this direction of Benedict’s character.
This also raises the question of Francesca Bridgerton’s character, and her sexuality regarding Michaela Stirling, her husband’s cousin. Viewers are keenly aware of the tension between the two ladies, following the narrative of Julia Quinn’s books. We can only hope the second half of season four expands upon this narrative, providing answers to many viewers’ speculation.
After a dramatic question in the fourth episode, named after Benedict’s book, indeed it is no surprise viewers are anxiously waiting for the second half of the season to be released on the 26th of February. Has this first half of the new season left much to be desired, or will the second half solve these questions? Will Francesca’s storyline have a climactic shift? Is it plausible – or even possible – that our elusive ‘Lady in Silver’ will receive her Cinderella fairy-tale ending? We can only speculate. But for now, dearest gentle reader, have a cup of tea and keep your theories prepared…
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