The Simpsons season 21 episode 17 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
C. Montgomery Burns is arrested for art theft, sparking a rebellion among his power plant workers. They demand better working conditions and throw a secret party with Burns' expensive wine. Smithers, taking charge, tries to create a more employee-friendly environment but ends up disillusioned by the workers' insincerity. Meanwhile, Bart and Lisa's sibling rivalry intensifies over an ant farm. Burns claims to reform in prison, but upon being broken out by the workers, who miss his leadership, he quickly returns to his old ways and reclaims control of the plant.
Full Episode S21E17 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was C. Montgomery Burns arrested?
Burns was arrested for the theft of "The Concert" by Vermeer, a painting he had stolen from a museum.
How did the plant workers react to Burns' Fourth of July picnic announcement?
The workers were frustrated by Burns' announcement of a mandatory, unpaid picnic where they had to perform.
What did the workers do in retaliation at Burns' mansion?
In retaliation, the workers threw a secret party using Burns' expensive wine.
Who was declared the Employee of the Month at the power plant?
Roger Ducette, who died from complications related to union organizing, was posthumously declared Employee of the Month.
What role did Smithers play while Burns was in prison?
Smithers took charge of the power plant, implementing more employee-friendly policies.
How did Smithers' management style differ from Burns'?
Smithers' management was more lenient and focused on employee welfare, unlike Burns' strict and demanding approach.
What happened to Bart and Lisa's ant farm?
Bart and Lisa's ant farm project led to conflict and the eventual death of their ants.
How did Burns claim to have changed in prison?
Burns claimed to have reformed, participating in prison activities and joining a prison choir.
What was the reaction of the plant workers to Smithers' management?
Initially happy, the workers eventually mocked Smithers for his kindness and perceived weakness.
Why did the plant workers plot to break Burns out of prison?
They missed Burns' leadership and preferred his management style over Smithers'.
Did Burns maintain his reformed behavior after leaving prison?
No, Burns quickly returned to his old ways, dismissing his brief period of reformation.
How did Burns regain control of the power plant?
After escaping from prison, Burns dismissed Smithers' changes and reclaimed his position of power.
What led to Burns being publicly ridiculed?
Burns was ridiculed for his art theft and extravagant lifestyle after his arrest.
What was the relationship between Bart and Lisa like in this episode?
Bart and Lisa's relationship was strained, particularly over the management of their ant farm.
How did Burns feel about his time in prison?
Burns initially adapted to prison life but ultimately felt it was a prison to him and longed for his previous life.