The Gilded Age Season 2 Episode 7 Recap: What Happened At The Van Rhijn Household?

Manda Garcia
Dec 10, 2023
Dec 12, 2023

The Gilded Age Season 2 Episode 7, which was released on December 10, 2023, unfolds against the backdrop of the Brooklyn Bridge's grand opening in New York City. Bertha faces opera challenges while George offers guidance. However, amidst the celebrations, Luke's illness progresses, and unexpected news shakes Ada's nephew, Oscar. The episode, titled "Wonders Never Cease," explores these unfolding dynamics.

The Gilded Age Season 2 Episode 7 Recap

The Gilded Age Season 2 Episode 7 begins, thrusting viewers into a whirlwind of emotions. In the midst of the Opera War, Bertha grapples with loyalty, Marian questions her impending marriage, and Luke Forte's deteriorating health casts a shadow over Ada's wedded bliss. As the Brooklyn Bridge nears completion, tycoon George Russell navigates strikes, while Oscar Van Rhijn's reckless decisions jeopardize those he holds dear. The Old Guard faces peril, and the series asserts itself as a dynamic exploration of self-actualization and American wealth's rise and fall, distinguishing it from Downton Abbey.

George's Devious Scheme Unfolds: Divide And Conquer In The Workers' Battle

George told his guys to back off from the striking workers, making it seem like he lost to the union. But, sneaky as ever, George only gave them a temporary pay bump, hoping it'd stir more trouble among the workers. He aims to create tension between immigrants and those born in America, showing his cunning and reminding us he's a cunning businessman.

On another front, Mrs. Astor finally grants Bertha's wish for a box at the Academy. Bertha is puzzled by this unexpected gesture and needs to check with her husband first.

Later that night, Bertha tells George about the Academy box predicament. George thinks Mrs. Astor is trying to buy her off, suggesting that the new opera house is the place for those truly making the city great. He encourages Bertha not to settle for Mrs. Astor's shadow but to shine as a founding member at the Met. It's a convincing argument, showcasing the strength of this couple.

Meanwhile, the education board still plans to close schools in Black communities, but they won't go down without a fight. Peggy attends a strategy meeting where her father Arthur provides wise advice, suggesting they need support from white people. This means having white students and teachers. Luckily, Peggy can turn to Marian to use her connections and find some applicants.

Luke's Decline And Acts Of Redemption

Earlier, Marian is worried about celebrating her engagement, considering Luke's illness. Despite her concerns, she seems to be convincing herself that she wants to marry Daishell. The talk of the town is the upcoming wedding, but everything changes when Luke collapses. Agnes insists on calling the doctor and keeping him there. Although Luke looks a bit better the next morning, his prognosis is grim.

Agnes urges her sister to get some rest. When Luke wakes up and sees his sister-in-law, he apologizes for his selfish decision to marry Ada. Agnes holds his hand and gently scolds him, speaking of how warm, cherished, and loved Ada feels—a feeling she'll carry for the rest of her life.

Another act of forgiveness happens across the street when Flora visits her father, Watson. Flora had no idea about her husband's attempt to move Watson to San Francisco. When she found out, she insisted Watson stay in New York. Not only that, but she wants to get to know Watson and help him set up an apartment.

Oscar's Suspicious Proposal Plans Unfold

Oscar plans to propose to Maude Beaton, but things take a suspicious turn when George reveals he's unfamiliar with Oscar's significant investment in a railway company. Returning to the office, Oscar finds it deserted. His attempt to locate Maude leads to confusion, as nobody seems to know her. Confronting Aurora about Maude, he discovers even she is unsure about how they met, raising suspicions of a con job.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Fish finds excitement in Oscar's meltdown and the preceding argument at Aurora's charity meeting. Mrs. Astor declares that Bertha is taking an Academy box, although Bertha hasn't confirmed. Despite Mrs. Astor's insistence, Bertha remains committed to the Met, prompting a warning that sounds both threatening and promising.

Brooklyn Bridge Celebration Takes Unexpected Turns

On the day of the Brooklyn Bridge opening, most of the city is at parties, eagerly awaiting the fireworks. Peggy attends a rooftop bash in Brooklyn, catching up with friends. Her mother notices her connection with the married Thomas from Tuskegee and advises caution.

The Russells secure a prime spot at the residence of chief engineer Mr. Roebling. During Larry's speech, he credits Emily Roebling for completing the project, ensuring recognition for the woman behind it. Mrs. Astor, accompanied by the Duke of Buckingham, attends the party, revealing her influence in redirecting the Duke to the Academy opening night.

However, a somber event unfolds at the van Rhijn household. Luke has a peaceful final conversation with Ada before passing away in his sleep. Ada is devastated, finding solace in the comforting embrace of her big sister waiting on the other side of the door.

The following morning, Oscar finally appears, facing his mother's growing fury. He shares the news of a bad deal, revealing the loss of almost all the van Rhijn fortune. With only one episode left in season 2, fixing this won't be an easy task.

The Gilded Age Season 2 Episode 7 Review

The Gilded Age Season 2 Episode 7 delved into a rollercoaster of emotions set against the grandeur of the Brooklyn Bridge's debut. Bertha Russell grappled with a surprising proposal from Mrs. Astor, torn between the Academy's prestige and the allure of the Met. George Russell's cunning maneuvers in a labor dispute hinted at a deeper rift, using a temporary raise to sow discord. Meanwhile, Oscar van Rhijn faced a staggering revelation, realizing his substantial investment was a colossal scam, jeopardizing the Van Rhijn fortune.

As 'The Gilded Age' Season 2 Episode 7 unfolds, complexities in opera choices, labor battles, and personal struggles come to the forefront. With the next episode scheduled for December 17, 2023, viewers eagerly anticipate the resolution of these dramatic arcs in the upcoming finale.