The Gilded Age Season 3 Episode 2: “The Papers Say”
In this episode, two worlds collide as Peggy Scott’s parents finally arrive at 61st Avenue after three seasons of build-up. Fans of the HBO series will recall that last week, Aunt Agnes was sent to assist Arthur and Dorothy Scott after Peggy fell ill.
What starts as a seemingly warm introduction turns awkward quickly. Scott confronts Agnes about her rather simple views on the racial dynamics of 1880s New York. It’s intriguing because it forces Aunt Agnes to not only defend herself but to reflect on her own shortcomings.
This tension-filled moment highlights the show’s ability to tackle complex subjects. Actress Christine Baranski has expressed feeling “nervous” about these scenes, which add depth to the characters.
**Spoilers: “What the Papers Say” from Season 3 is currently available for streaming on Max. **
The season opener saw Peggy in dire health, leading Aunt Agnes to call for a doctor, who unfortunately reveals his racism by refusing to treat her based solely on her race. The first episode concludes with Agnes deciding to send Jack to Brooklyn to inform Peggy’s parents about her condition. This week, the Scotts arrive on 61st Street accompanied by family friend Dr. William Kirkland, setting the stage for further complications.
The situation raises questions: when Peggy’s family arrives, should they come through the front door or the back? Yet, both Agnes and Ada were raised in families that advocated for black rights, which complicates their awareness of the racially charged atmosphere.
Agnes and Ada were brought up by abolitionists, but the world they inhabit remains deeply segregated. It prompts the question of why Agnes underestimated the doctor’s prejudice. Peggy’s father intends to confront Aunt Agnes about this oversight.
Baranski described her character’s struggle, saying, “Agnes is on shaky ground.” She found the scene challenging yet essential, capturing the raw complexity of the dialogue around race.
Cynthia Nixon, who plays Ada, also appreciated the dynamics of their interactions. She found it amusing to see Ada’s excitement in front of the Scotts, illustrating her desire to prove her qualifications as a white ally, even as Peggy suffered upstairs.
While the Scotts attempt to be polite, there’s an unmistakable disconnect, highlighting both class and racial tensions.
Baranski noted that much of the scene’s inspiration came from Audra MacDonald, emphasizing the privilege it was to work alongside such talented actors.
The Gilded Age airs on HBO and Max on Sundays at 9 PM ET.
