Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell episode 1 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
In York, a society of gentleman magicians, focused on theoretical magic, is challenged by Mr. Segundus on why they don't perform real magic. Mr. Norrell, a reclusive magician, proves
Full Episode S00E01 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Society of Magicians in York focused on?
The Society of Magicians in York focuses on the history and theory of English magic, not its practice.
Who challenges the society's lack of practical magic?
Mr. Segundus challenges the society's focus on theoretical magic, questioning why they don't perform real magic.
Who is Mr. Norrell?
Mr. Norrell is a reclusive magician living at Hurtfew Abbey, possessing a vast collection of rare magical books.
What magical feat does Mr. Norrell perform in York?
Mr. Norrell animates the statues in York Minster as proof of his practical magical abilities.
What prophecy does Vinculus reveal?
Vinculus prophesizes that two magicians, named Fearfulness and Arrogance, will emerge in England.
How does Jonathan Strange discover he might be a magician?
Vinculus convinces Jonathan Strange of his destiny as a magician and sells him spells, one of which works for Strange.
Why does Mr. Norrell go to London?
Mr. Norrell moves to London to revive respect for magic and offer his services to the government for the war effort.
How does Norrell prove his magic to London society?
Norrell revives Sir Walter Pole's fiancée, Emma, from the dead at a soiree, proving his magical abilities.
What is the consequence of Norrell's resurrection spell?
The resurrection spell makes a pact with a fairy, granting it half of Emma's remaining life, marked by the loss of her finger.
What is Jonathan Strange's initial reaction to being a magician?
Jonathan Strange is skeptical but intrigued by the idea of being a magician, eventually trying and succeeding in a minor magical act.
How does Norrell's magic impact his reputation?
Norrell's resurrection of Emma dramatically boosts his reputation, proving that practical magic exists and is powerful.
Who is Emma engaged to?
Emma is engaged to Sir Walter Pole.
What role does Vinculus play in the story?
Vinculus is a street magician who prophecizes the emergence of two magicians and convinces Strange of his magical destiny.
Why does the society dismiss Segundus's query about practical magic?
The society dismisses Segundus's query, likening their role to historians of magic, not practitioners.
What is the nature of the deal Norrell makes with the fairy?
Norrell unknowingly makes a deal with a fairy to revive Emma, resulting in the fairy claiming half of her remaining life.