In the latest season of The Gilded Age, Hector, Duke of Buckingham, continues to be specific about his financial expectations in his marriage to Gladys Russell. George remains firm on his side of the negotiations, initially refusing the Duke’s unreasonable demands. Even so, Bertha is able to convince both men that the marriage is beneficial. She explains and manipulates the situation by showing the Duke that the money from the marriage would belong to both of them, and that it will be a proper marriage, which doubles his access to their funds. Even though George despises Bertha’s meddling and manipulation, they are able to make a financial agreement with Hector, the Duke.

Gladys begins to realize that she has no control, be it in love or life at all. In episode four, Gladys and Hector’s wedding day arrives, although attendance will be low due to the short notice. While Gladys is becoming an honest woman, she is miserable. She must mentally prepare for a marriage she did not want to a man she does not love. As preparations are made, Gladys shows numerous signs of distress about the ceremony. Gladys’ apparent unhappiness makes guests and family tense, although the wedding continues to move forward despite this.

This episode reveals a large rift between George and Bertha over Gladys’ future. While George promised Gladys a marriage of love, Bertha forces a match based on family social advancement. With this, Bertha continues to become a more controlling and manipulative character, neglecting her daughter’s emotions. She sees Gladys’ objections and concerns as obstacles rather than validating them. Gladys’ wedding is now a battleground for the family’s values as George pushes for more progressive choices, while Bertha pursues a higher societal status.

Despite the tensions and uncertainties surrounding the wedding preparations, the wedding proceeds. Beneath the lavish spectacle, the emotional tragedy is apparent as Gladys and Hector finalize their marriage for their duty to their families. This is a victory for Bertha, as her orchestrated plan was a success, securing the Russell family’s place in higher society. Even so, a rift begins to form in the family with no return to its former dynamic. 

This episode concludes with Gladys officially becoming a Duchess, although she has ultimately sacrificed her autonomy and happiness in finding love. This tragic figure sacrifices, or rather, is forced to choose duty, leading to the end of her dreams and a beginning to a new life as a duchess. Overall, this episode was beautifully tragic and shows a great performance from Farmiga. Audiences can expect new dynamics within the Russell family as Gladys must learn to navigate life as a duchess while in a loveless marriage. 

Rating: 9/10