‘A Discovery of Witches’ Recap: ‘Season 2, Episode 9’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 209 of ‘A Discovery of Witches’.
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It is definitely safe to say that A Discovery of Witches, is one of the most dynamic television shows out there. Because this is a series that can shift gears on a moment’s notice and can go from being a creepy and eerie horror show, to a beautiful drama, one where our heartstrings are tugged upon or it can straight up become an intense ride where big moments happen left and right. But while it accomplishes a great deal week in and week out, what truly allows for this series to stand tall and above other shows, is its ability to grow its characters in a healthy and consistent manner. Because they are truly why we have fallen in love with this series, since they are so layered and flawed and relatable and watching them grow simply sends our spirits soaring.

For we all want to see them fulfill their respective destinies and find the peace and happiness they so crave and really, this is top of mind today, simply because character growth was the focus of this week’s episode of the show. For both Diana and Matthew continued to build upon everything they’ve learned this season and applied it to tough situations that tested their growth and that made for some powerful and satisfying moments. Such as when Matthew took everything he learned at Sept-Tours to heart and channeled the truth to get he and Diana out a sticky situation. One that would have led to their deaths, had he not told Queen Elizabeth the truth about who he is and where he is from, regardless of the risk and that really is some genuine growth for certain. Since he came into 1590 thinking that secrecy in all things was the way to go and it was wonderful to see him cast that thought aside and see his decision pay off in spades.

As for Diana, well she too flipped the script from where she was at the start of this season, by embracing her power and using it whenever necessary. Something that she was hesitant to do early on in season two, since she didn’t understand it or feel comfortable with it all that well. But learning that she’s a Weaver and coming closer to tying the ten knots gave her newfound confidence and abilities. To the point where she now has her familiar at her side and knows how to use it. Something that came in quite handy when Matthew’s sister and Kit opted to try and remove her from the equation. For she was quick to unleash her familiar and her abilities upon them to hammer home the point that she is not to be trifled with and really, it was quite satisfying to see Diana be this confident and bold in fighting back, since it served as a fine reminder of how far she’s come in this journey.

Plus, this episode also took the time to explore how couples grow in a healthy manner. Because sadly, seeing Diana under duress at the hands of a family member and a valued friend, brought about his blood rage and motivated him to nearly tear them both limb from limb. But once again Diana, stepped in to keep him from going over the edge and once again… she did so without judgment. Which is paramount to helping a partner that struggles with their emotional well-being from time to time (in a non-abusive manner of course), since the afflicted partner will no longer feel as though they are misunderstood or broken or isolated. But while that was wonderful for certain, where this plot thread truly shined, is when it took the time to explore how communication and understanding is key to making a relationship rock solid, and one way we achieve that is by genuinely taking the time to learn what makes our partner tick and all the good and bad things that made them who they are today.
 
Something that the duo achieved in a lightning-fast manner of course, but it happened none the less and it was beautiful for certain and well, all of these elements made this one delightful and satisfying tale. One that was filled to the brim with satisfying character growth and incredible tests for our heroes, the kind that they passed with flying colors and well, you couldn’t ask for a better time for them to figure out how handle difficult tasks in an ingenious manner. Because there’s big trouble brewing back home, and it won’t be long before they return to save the day and that is going to make the wait for next week’s season two finale, a difficult one indeed. Simply because we are all dying to know, if next Saturday is the day, that we will see a pair of bold and confident heroes return home to bring order to chaos. Until next time.   
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‘A Discovery of Witches’ is streaming now on Sundance Now and Shudder.

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