Reign season 4 episode 7 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
Mary prepares for her politically charged wedding to Darnley, sacrificing her brother's lands for Darnley's title, causing family tension. Meanwhile, in France, Catherine seeks her son, King Charles, who's hiding with a Protestant family, leading to a clash with her daughter Leeza over the future of the French throne. Elizabeth grapples with whether to invade Scotland but ultimately opts against it. Mary discovers Darnley's affair with his old love, Keira, leading her to marry him only for political gain, severing personal ties.
Full Episode S04E07 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Charles absent from the French court?
Charles has been living with a family outside Meaux, finding peace and purpose away from court responsibilities.
What are Mary's concerns about her wedding?
Mary is worried about threats from various factions and the overwhelming political nature of her wedding.
What is the source of tension between Catherine and Leeza?
The tension arises from Leeza's intention to dethrone Charles and replace him with a more suitable ruler, potentially causing a civil war in France.
How does Darnley feel about his engagement to Mary?
Darnley is conflicted due to his past love for Keira and his ambition to become King of Scotland through marriage to Mary.
What political dilemma is Queen Elizabeth facing?
Elizabeth faces pressure to take military action against Scotland but ultimately decides against it to avoid appearing aggressive.
What sacrifice does Mary make for Darnley's title?
Mary sacrifices James's lands to grant Darnley a Scottish title, causing tension between her and James.
How does Mary find out about Darnley's affair?
Mary discovers Darnley's affair with Keira, leading to a confrontation and her decision to marry him solely for political reasons.
What is Darnley's reaction to Mary's discovery of his affair?
Darnley is apologetic but insists that their marriage is critical for their political ambitions, despite the personal betrayal.
What decision does Elizabeth make regarding military action against Scotland?
Elizabeth decides not to invade Scotland, choosing not to be governed by fear and avoiding unnecessary aggression.
Why does Leeza want to involve the Vatican in French affairs?
Leeza wants to involve the Vatican to assess Charles's fitness to rule, potentially leading to his removal and replacement by a more suitable ruler.
What is the impact of Charles declaring himself a Protestant?
Charles's declaration as a Protestant risks a civil war in France, as it opposes the Catholic majority and aligns him with a minority religious group.
How does Mary handle the political fallout from her wedding decisions?
Mary tries to mitigate the fallout by negotiating new trade routes for James and proceeding with her marriage to Darnley for political gain.
What is Darnley's justification for his affair with Keira?
Darnley justifies his affair by claiming it was a one-time mistake and emphasizing the political necessity of his marriage to Mary.
What is the status of Elizabeth's military preparations against Scotland?
Elizabeth's military forces are positioned for invasion but are ultimately ordered to stand down as she decides against aggressive action.
How does the episode end regarding Mary and Darnley's relationship?
The episode ends with Mary deciding to marry Darnley solely for the benefit of Scotland and the prospect of claiming the English throne, dismissing any personal connection.
