Merlin 4.10

[talesofyesac]

I don't usually make a habit to post reflections on episodes, especially not right after they air, but in this case, I'm wondering if anyone else felt like I did, or if I'm totally off base here:

Comments

[stbacchus]

Of all the characters on Merlin, I feel like Arthur has been the subject of the most unearned and annoying backsliding. He's grown a lot since season 1, but periodically, I don't even know, maybe they're recycling older scenes? Like in the episode with Gillie, maybe they felt like they weren't ripping off "Valiant" sufficiently unless Arthur had the exact same daddy issues?

In this one, I think what's supposed to be happening is that Arthur is projecting like a multiplex. He feels guilty, he desires punishment, so he punishes Merlin, his closest friend. That's the explanation that makes the most sense to me, although I don't think it carries through well. Previously, we've seen Arthur communicate various things with chores for Merlin: his general high-handed attitude toward servants, his annoyance with Merlin's attitude, their friendship, and putting Merlin in his place. But he only bosses Merlin like this when things are okay. It's a sign of normalcy and has been used exactly as such in several episodes. It's entirely out of place here.

Other entirely unsupported, wank-tastic theories include:

1. Arthur is putting Merlin in his place as a servant, to convince himself that a servant is all Gwen ever was to him.

2. Arthur feels adrift right now and is asserting his power to reassure himself that everything is okay.

3. Arthur is trying to recreate the Uther era, when he last felt sure of himself.

4. The frogurt Arthur is also cursed.

But really I think you're right, Arthur just sucks in this episode. Although the fault is with the writers more than him, IMO.

[talesofyesac]

Of all the characters on Merlin, I feel like Arthur has been the subject of the most unearned and annoying backsliding

So agreed. I remember being furious at the Curse of Cornelius Sigan. Arthur will die for Merlin, but then next season, he's quite fine with sacking him. Uh, what?

I think your assessment pretty much described exactly what I was thinking: that is, you described what the writers wanted to do, and what they seemed to fail to do. Goodness, I understand that Arthur is a little emotionally constipated, but this was just... ugh.

Personally, though, I'm fond of your unsupported theories! Daddy issues FTW!