Sherlock season 3 episode 3 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

Sherlock and John confront the manipulative media mogul Charles Augustus Magnussen, uncovering his unique method of control through his eidetic memory, not physical evidence. Meanwhile, Mary Watson's past as an intelligence agent and assassin is revealed, altering the dynamics of her relationship with John and Sherlock. Sherlock makes a drastic decision to kill Magnussen to protect his friends, leading to his exile. However, his exile is cut short by the unexpected return of Moriarty, posing a new threat.

Full Episode S03E03 Recap

### Scene: Inquiry with Charles Augustus Magnussen - Magnussen deflects questions about his influence over the Prime Minister. - He shows disdain for the inquiry, making sarcastic remarks. - Magnussen is revealed to have regular meetings at Downing Street but remains vague about their purpose. ### Scene: Magnussen's Encounter with Lady Smallwood - Magnussen intimidates Lady Smallwood with knowledge about her husband's past. - He demonstrates his power by revealing sensitive information and making her uncomfortable. - The scene highlights Magnussen's manipulative and controlling nature. ### Scene: Sherlock and John's Early Morning Case - Sherlock and John are approached by Kate about her missing son, Isaac. - John decides to investigate, showing his inclination towards helping others. - The scene establishes the close but complicated relationship between Sherlock and John. ### Scene: John at the Drug Den - John confronts the drug users, showing his assertiveness and desire to help Isaac. - He encounters Sherlock at the drug den, leading to confusion and concern. - The scene raises questions about Sherlock's activities and intentions. ### Scene: Sherlock's Drug Test at Bart's Hospital - Molly conducts a drug test on Sherlock, raising concerns about his well-being. - Sherlock's interaction with Molly shows his dismissive attitude towards others' concerns. - The scene adds to the mystery of Sherlock's recent behavior and actions. ### Scene: Sherlock and Mary's Confrontation - Mary unexpectedly appears and shoots Sherlock, revealing her hidden agenda. - Sherlock's shock and hurt are evident, leading to a dramatic cliffhanger. - The scene dramatically shifts the narrative and exposes Mary's true nature. ### Scene: Sherlock's Mind Palace During His Injury - Sherlock retreats into his mind palace to cope with the shooting and stay conscious. - He confronts memories and imagines interactions with his friends and family. - The scene provides insight into Sherlock's inner world and his struggle to survive. ### Scene: The Reveal of Mary's True Identity - Sherlock and John confront Mary about her past and her actions. - Mary's background as an intelligence agent and an assassin is revealed. - The scene changes the dynamics between the characters and sets up future conflicts. ### Scene: The Showdown with Magnussen - Sherlock, John, and Mary confront Magnussen at Appledore. - Magnussen reveals his method of control is through his eidetic memory, not physical evidence. - The scene builds tension and sets the stage for a dramatic resolution. ### Scene: Sherlock's Sacrifice and Exile - Sherlock kills Magnussen to protect John and Mary, leading to his exile. - Mycroft arranges for Sherlock's covert mission in Eastern Europe. - The scene concludes with Sherlock's departure, leaving the future uncertain. ### Scene: Moriarty's Apparent Return - A video of Moriarty appears across the country, questioning if people missed him. - Sherlock's exile is promptly ended due to the new threat. - The scene sets up a new mystery and brings Sherlock back into action.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Charles Augustus Magnussen's relationship with the Prime Minister?

Magnussen claims to have no influence over the Prime Minister and is vague about his regular meetings at Downing Street.

How does Magnussen intimidate Lady Smallwood?

He uses his knowledge of her husband's past indiscretions to manipulate and control her.

Why does John Watson go to a drug den?

He goes to find Kate's missing son, Isaac, who is suspected of being there.

What is Sherlock Holmes doing at the drug den?

Sherlock's presence at the drug den is ambiguous, raising questions about his activities and intentions.

What happens during Sherlock's drug test at Bart's Hospital?

Molly conducts a drug test on Sherlock, revealing his dismissive attitude towards others' concerns about his well-being.

Why does Mary Watson shoot Sherlock?

Mary shoots Sherlock to protect her secret identity as a former intelligence agent and assassin.

How does Sherlock Holmes use his mind palace after being shot?

Sherlock uses his mind palace to cope with his injury and stay conscious by confronting memories and imagining interactions with his friends and family.

What is revealed about Mary Watson's past?

Mary's background as an intelligence agent and an assassin is revealed, altering the dynamics between her, Sherlock, and John.

How does Charles Augustus Magnussen maintain control over people?

Magnussen uses his eidetic memory to remember sensitive information about people, not physical evidence.

What leads to Sherlock Holmes' exile?

Sherlock's killing of Magnussen to protect John and Mary leads to his arranged exile by Mycroft.

How is Sherlock Holmes' exile ended?

Sherlock's exile is ended abruptly due to a video of Moriarty appearing across the country.

What is the significance of Moriarty's apparent return?

Moriarty's return sets up a new mystery and brings Sherlock back into action.

Sherlock season 3 episode 3

His Last Vow