Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell season 1 episode 2 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

Mr. Norrell's magical feats, like resurrecting Miss Wintertowne, gain him fame, while his pupil, Jonathan Strange, embarks on his own magical journey, their differing views on magic, especially concerning the Raven King and fairy magic, lead to tension. Lady Pole suffers from a mysterious ailment post-resurrection, speaking in riddles and linked to the realm of Lost-Hope. The auction of the Duke of Roxburghe's books becomes a battleground for Norrell and Strange's conflicting ideologies, showcasing the societal impact of magic and the personal struggles of the characters.

Full Episode S01E02 Recap

### Introduction - **Characters Introduced**: Mr. Norrell, Vinculus, Jonathan Strange, Sir Walter, Miss Wintertowne, Wellington, Lady Pole - **Key Locations**: Hanover Square, Starecross Hall, Lost-Hope ### Mr. Norrell's Proposition and Magical Feats - **Mr. Norrell's Offer**: Mr. Norrell offers his magical services to Sir Walter to aid in the war against France. - **Resurrection of Miss Wintertowne**: Mr. Norrell brings Miss Wintertowne back to life, shocking society and gaining fame. - **Magical Assistance in War**: Mr. Norrell assists in the war by creating magical blockades and proposes further magical defenses for the country. ### Jonathan Strange's Journey into Magic - **Jonathan Strange's Introduction to Magic**: After an encounter with the street magician Vinculus, Jonathan buys spells and begins his journey into magic. - **Strange's Partnership with Norrell**: Strange meets Mr. Norrell and becomes his pupil, though their views on magic often conflict, especially regarding the Raven King and fairy magic. ### The Condition of Lady Pole - **Lady Pole's Mysterious Ailment**: After being resurrected by Mr. Norrell, Lady Pole suffers from a mysterious condition, speaking in riddles and showing signs of distress, especially related to the magical realm of Lost-Hope. ### The School for Magicians at Starecross Hall - **Establishment of the School**: Mr. Segundus and Mr. Honeyfoot plan to establish a school for magicians at Starecross Hall, once the home of Miss Absalom the enchantress. ### Tensions and Developments in Magic - **Norrell's Control Over Magic**: Mr. Norrell's attempts to control and limit English magic face challenges, including from Jonathan Strange and the magical community. - **Strange's Departure to War**: Despite Norrell's reluctance, Strange is sent to assist in the Peninsula War, leading to a separation between the two magicians. - **Auction of Magical Books**: The auction of the Duke of Roxburghe's magical books becomes a point of contention between Norrell and Strange, showcasing the growing divide in their views and approaches to magic. ### Conclusion - **The episode concludes with the escalating tension between Norrell and Strange, the deteriorating condition of Lady Pole, and the ongoing impact of magic on the characters' lives and the broader society.**

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Mr. Norrell?

Mr. Norrell is a magician offering his services to aid in the war and famous for resurrecting Miss Wintertowne.

What does Mr. Norrell offer to Sir Walter?

Mr. Norrell offers his magical services to aid in the war against France.

What significant magical feat does Mr. Norrell perform in society?

Mr. Norrell brings Miss Wintertowne back to life, shocking society and gaining fame.

Who is Jonathan Strange?

Jonathan Strange is a man who, after an encounter with Vinculus, begins his journey into magic and becomes Mr. Norrell's pupil.

What is the nature of Lady Pole's ailment?

Lady Pole suffers from a mysterious condition after her resurrection, speaking in riddles and showing distress, particularly related to the magical realm of Lost-Hope.

What is the plan of Mr. Segundus and Mr. Honeyfoot?

Mr. Segundus and Mr. Honeyfoot plan to establish a school for magicians at Starecross Hall.

What is the conflict between Norrell and Strange?

Norrell and Strange have conflicting views on magic, especially regarding the Raven King and fairy magic, leading to tension and separation when Strange is sent to war.

What is significant about the Duke of Roxburghe's books?

The auction of the Duke of Roxburghe's magical books becomes a point of contention between Norrell and Strange, reflecting their differing views on magic.

Where is Jonathan Strange sent, and why is Mr. Norrell reluctant?

Jonathan Strange is sent to assist in the Peninsula War, and Mr. Norrell is reluctant because he fears it will evoke the Raven King and reckless magic.

What does the auction of magical books signify?

The auction signifies the growing divide between Norrell and Strange and the broader societal interest in magic.

How does Mr. Norrell react to the loss of 40 books?

Mr. Norrell is deeply distressed and regrets coming to London and undertaking the restoration of English magic due to the loss.

What is the magical realm associated with Lady Pole's distress?

Lady Pole's distress is associated with the magical realm of Lost-Hope.

What is the significance of Starecross Hall?

Starecross Hall is intended to be the site of a new school for magicians and was once the home of Miss Absalom the enchantress.

How does the condition of Lady Pole affect her and those around her?

Lady Pole's condition leads to mysterious and distressing behavior, speaking in riddles, and causing concern for Sir Walter and others.

What are the broader implications of the events in this episode?

The events reflect the growing impact of magic on society, the tension between different approaches to magic, and the personal struggles of the characters involved.