Masters of Sex season 1 episode 1 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

Dr. William Masters, celebrated for his contributions to obstetrics, conducts clandestine research at a brothel to study sexual responses. His interactions with Betty, a prostitute, provide insights into women's sexual experiences. Masters hires Virginia Johnson, recognizing her unconventional views on sex, as his secretary. They face personal and professional challenges, including Masters' struggle with infertility and his complicated relationship with Virginia. The episode culminates in Masters proposing that they participate in their own sex study.

Full Episode S01E01 Recap

### Dr. William Masters' Award Ceremony - Dr. William Masters receives an award for his contributions to obstetric surgery. - His innovations have made him dominant in his field, celebrated for helping families conceive. - Masters, a man of science, leaves the ceremony early for work. ### At the Brothel - Masters conducts research at a brothel, observing clients' sexual responses. - He discusses the importance of accurate data collection with Betty, a prostitute. - Betty reveals that women, including prostitutes, often fake orgasms. ### Washington University - Dr. Ethan Haas shows interest in a new employee, Virginia Johnson. - Masters plans to continue his controversial sex study, seeking support from Provost Scully. - Virginia Johnson, seeking a secretarial position, impresses Masters with her unorthodox views on sex. ### Masters' Home Life - Masters and his wife, Libby, struggle with infertility. - Libby feels pressure to conceive, highlighting the strain on their marriage. ### Betty's Participation in the Study - Betty, a prostitute, participates in Masters' study, providing valuable data. - Masters faces challenges in maintaining scientific objectivity and dealing with personal biases. ### Masters and Johnson's Working Relationship - Masters hires Virginia as his secretary, recognizing her potential despite her lack of formal education. - Their professional relationship begins, marked by a shared commitment to groundbreaking research. ### Dr. Ethan Haas' Personal Dilemmas - Haas grapples with his feelings for Virginia and his own professional ambitions. - He confronts Virginia about their complicated relationship, struggling to define their bond. ### Masters' Study Expands - Masters decides to conduct the study with real couples, despite the risks. - He faces resistance and skepticism but remains determined to push boundaries. ### Conclusion - The episode concludes with Masters proposing that he and Virginia directly participate in the study, marking a significant turning point in their professional and personal dynamics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Dr. William Masters?

Dr. William Masters is a renowned obstetric surgeon known for his innovations in the field, helping many families conceive.

What is the focus of Masters' research at the brothel?

Masters' research at the brothel focuses on observing clients' sexual responses and collecting data on arousal and orgasm.

Does Betty, the prostitute, reveal any insights about women's sexual experiences?

Yes, Betty reveals that women, including prostitutes, often fake orgasms.

Who is Virginia Johnson and what role does she play?

Virginia Johnson is a new employee at Washington University, hired by Masters as his secretary. She impresses Masters with her views on sex and becomes involved in his study.

What is the nature of Masters and Johnson's working relationship?

Masters and Johnson's working relationship is professional, with Masters recognizing Virginia's potential despite her lack of formal education. They share a commitment to their groundbreaking sex study.

What personal challenges does Dr. Ethan Haas face?

Dr. Ethan Haas struggles with his feelings for Virginia and his professional ambitions. He confronts Virginia about their relationship, revealing his emotional turmoil.

How does the sex study evolve in this episode?

The study evolves to include real couples, reflecting Masters' determination to push the boundaries of sexual research.

What significant proposal does Masters make at the end of the episode?

Masters proposes that he and Virginia directly participate in the sex study themselves, marking a significant turning point in their relationship.

Masters of Sex season 1 episode 1

Pilot