Victoria Review: "The Green Eyed Monster"

After I loved the season premiere of Victoria so much, I was worried that the following episode would be a let down. And while I still prefer the previous episode, I cannot deny that I enjoyed this episode too.

And that is for one reason, and the reason Twitter rejoiced. Lord M (Rufus Sewell) has returned! He was one of my favourite parts of the first season, despite the historical inaccuracies, and while I was worried that his return would be forced, since historically at this point he was no longer Prime Minister, they have implemented it into the plot nicely.

Seeing how Lord M is still able to help Victoria (Jenna Coleman) with some of the most difficult decisions in her marriage is fascinating. Due to her sheltered upbringing, she has little experience in the obstacles of marriage. Her and Albert feel more and more like a real couple, with bumps in the road (some bigger than others! No spoilers don't worry.)

Considering Victoria takes place a century before any idea that could eventually become computers, and as a bit of a tech geek, I found the inventions of engines and early computer programs fascinating. The fact that it stems from a woman, Ada Lovelace, makes it even better. After a bit of research on the real Lady Lovelace, I am a fan. Seeing Albert (Tom Hughes) attempt to push these new advances is welcome in an era grounded in tradition and historical values. Just think, without these ideas, there would be no hub of knowledge and technology that we are so reliant on today.

If I had to give a negative for this episode, I just cannot grasp any interest in the 'below stairs' characters. I understand how the writers are trying to boost interest in them in an attempt to copy Downton Abbey, but it's just not working. Maybe the series needs to run for a bit longer but right not I'm not sure.

And finally, while I like the humour in Victoria, I find Dame Diana Rigg's character (Mistress of the Robes) a little bit tiring at this point. Her one-liners come across as general complaints, from an old woman so desperate to maintain her ways. I love her niece, especially as she is so passionate and intelligent, but the Duchess just ties her back. I frustrates me, as a lover of the passionate female in Victoria literature.

So, good episode as a whole, though not as good as episode 1. And with Lord M returning next week, the series is heading in the right direction!