Call the Midwife season 1 episode 1 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
Jennifer Lee, a new midwife, joins Nonnatus House in London's East End, confronting poverty and challenging births. She assists in the delivery of Muriel's baby under tough conditions. Pearl Winston, pregnant and diagnosed with syphilis, highlights the healthcare struggles of the area. On a foggy night, Jennifer delivers Conchita Warren's 25th baby prematurely at home, where Conchita cares for the fragile infant with limited resources. Jennifer gains insight into the resilience and love in the community. Meanwhile, quirky midwife Chummy arrives, adding to the dynamic at Nonnatus House.
Full Episode S01E01 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jennifer Lee?
Jennifer Lee is a newly qualified midwife who arrives at Nonnatus House, a nursing convent in the East End of London.
What is Nonnatus House?
Nonnatus House is a nursing convent where midwives and district nurses, including nuns, provide care to the community.
Who are Sister Monica Joan and Sister Julienne?
Sister Monica Joan is an eccentric and elderly nun at Nonnatus House, while Sister Julienne is a senior nun and leader of the team.
What challenges does Jennifer face in her new role?
Jennifer struggles with the poverty, poor living conditions, and challenging births in the East End, which are new to her experience.
Who are the Warren family and what is unique about them?
The Warren family, visited by Jennifer, is notable for having 24 children, with Conchita Warren pregnant with her 25th child.
What happens during Muriel's delivery?
Jennifer assists in Muriel's home birth, which is complicated by poor living conditions and a chimney fire.
How is Pearl Winston's medical condition significant in the episode?
Pearl Winston is diagnosed with syphilis during her pregnancy, highlighting the healthcare challenges in the area.
What crisis occurs on a foggy night?
Conchita Warren goes into premature labor after a fall, and Jennifer must deliver the baby without medical backup due to heavy fog.
How does Conchita care for her premature baby?
Conchita insists on caring for her extremely premature baby at home, using an icing rod to feed him.
What realization does Jennifer come to about her work?
Jennifer realizes the strength and resilience of the women in the East End and sees their heroism in facing difficult births and conditions.
Who is Chummy and what is her role?
Chummy, formally known as Camilla Fortescue-Cholmeley-Browne, is a new midwife who joins the team at Nonnatus House with a quirky personality.
What are the main themes of the episode?
The episode explores themes of love, resilience, poverty, and the realities of midwifery in 1950s East End London.
How does the community view the midwives and nuns of Nonnatus House?
The community relies on the midwives and nuns for medical care and support, often in challenging circumstances.
How does the episode portray the living conditions in the East End?
The episode shows the harsh and impoverished living conditions in the East End, including crowded homes and lack of healthcare access.
What impact does Jennifer's experience have on her?
Jennifer's experience at Nonnatus House deepens her understanding of love, life, and the challenges faced by women in the East End.
