Season 2, Episode 18 of Grey’s Anatomy, titled “Yesterday,” sees the arrival of Addison Montgomery at Seattle Grace as she begins her tenure there while dealing with the fallout of her affair. Simultaneously, Meredith confronts the realization that Derek might choose Addison over her, setting the stage for intense romantic drama and professional rivalries within the hospital.
The Arrival and the Aftermath: Addison at Seattle Grace
Addison’s formal arrival at Seattle Grace in “Yesterday” is anything but smooth. Her presence immediately throws a wrench into the carefully constructed lives of Meredith Grey and Derek Shepherd. While Meredith grapples with the painful reality of Derek’s commitment to his wife, Derek attempts to navigate a professional relationship with Addison in a work environment filled with awkwardness and tension.
Navigating the New Dynamic
The episode showcases the initial reactions of the other doctors to Addison’s arrival. Some are curious, some are apprehensive, and some are downright hostile, particularly those loyal to Meredith. The tension between Addison and Meredith is palpable, expressed through curt exchanges and carefully avoided eye contact. “Yesterday” focuses heavily on the uncomfortable and often heartbreaking consequences of the affair that shattered Derek and Addison’s marriage.
Professional Prowess Takes Center Stage
Despite the personal drama, Addison showcases her exceptional surgical skills. The episode features a challenging obstetric case that allows Addison to demonstrate her expertise and remind everyone, including Derek, why she is a highly respected surgeon. This underscores the complexity of Addison’s character – she is not simply the “other woman” but a brilliant professional in her own right.
Meredith’s Emotional Turmoil: Facing the Reality of “Addison”
Meredith’s emotional arc in “Yesterday” is pivotal. The initial shock and denial surrounding Derek’s marriage have worn off, replaced by the stark realization that Derek genuinely loves Addison. This realization is devastating for Meredith, forcing her to confront her own feelings for Derek and the likelihood of a future without him.
Confrontations and Catharsis
The episode features several emotionally charged scenes involving Meredith. Her interactions with Derek are filled with a mixture of longing, resentment, and resignation. She also seeks solace and advice from Cristina, solidifying their friendship and highlighting Cristina’s often-unconventional but always honest approach to helping Meredith navigate her personal crises. Meredith’s struggle to accept Derek’s commitment to Addison forms the core emotional conflict of the episode.
The Search for Closure (or Lack Thereof)
Meredith’s journey in “Yesterday” is ultimately about facing the unknown. She understands that her relationship with Derek is at a crossroads and that the decision of whether to fight for him or let him go rests largely with him. This uncertainty is painful but also empowering, as Meredith begins to realize that she has agency in determining her own future.
Case of the Week: Uniting and Dividing
The medical case of the week, as is typical for Grey’s Anatomy, serves as a backdrop for the personal dramas unfolding. The case often parallels the characters’ internal struggles, providing a thematic resonance. In “Yesterday,” the medical case involves a difficult pregnancy with complications that force Addison to make challenging decisions, mirroring the complex choices the characters face in their personal lives.
Addison’s Surgical Expertise
The surgical case allows Addison to demonstrate her skills and assert her authority in the operating room. Her confident and decisive approach reinforces her image as a competent and talented surgeon, challenging the perception of her solely as Derek’s wife. This case also provides opportunities for interaction between Addison and other members of the surgical team, allowing them to witness her abilities firsthand.
Ethical Dilemmas and Teamwork
The case also presents ethical dilemmas that the doctors must navigate as a team. The need for quick decision-making under pressure highlights the importance of collaboration and trust, even amidst the personal tensions between the characters. This emphasizes the theme of professional responsibility and the need to prioritize patient care above personal feelings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Grey’s Anatomy Season 2, Episode 18, “Yesterday,” to further enhance your understanding:
FAQ 1: Why is Addison so cold towards Meredith in this episode?
Addison’s coldness stems from a complex mix of emotions. She is hurt and betrayed by Derek’s affair with Meredith and feels threatened by Meredith’s presence at Seattle Grace. While Addison is trying to salvage her marriage, she sees Meredith as a constant reminder of her husband’s infidelity. Her behavior is not purely malicious but a manifestation of her own pain and vulnerability. It’s important to remember that Addison, despite her perceived strength, is also a victim of the situation.
FAQ 2: What does Meredith mean when she says she “doesn’t do marriage”?
Meredith’s statement reflects her complicated relationship with her mother, Ellis Grey, whose own marriage was unconventional and ultimately unhappy. Meredith fears commitment and sees marriage as potentially limiting or even destructive, based on her mother’s experiences. This fear of commitment is a recurring theme throughout Meredith’s character arc.
FAQ 3: How does Derek react to Addison’s arrival?
Derek’s reaction is a mix of awkwardness, guilt, and a desire to make things work. He is clearly uncomfortable with Addison’s presence, knowing that it forces Meredith to confront the reality of their situation. He also feels responsible for the pain he has caused Addison and tries to maintain a professional demeanor while dealing with the emotional complexities of their relationship. Derek’s inner conflict is evident throughout the episode.
FAQ 4: Is Addison a good doctor?
Yes, the episode strongly emphasizes Addison’s medical skills and experience. The writers deliberately portray her as a highly competent and respected surgeon, preventing her from being solely defined by her relationship with Derek. Her professional abilities are showcased to establish her as a complex and independent character.
FAQ 5: How does Cristina support Meredith in this episode?
Cristina provides Meredith with her signature brand of brutally honest but ultimately supportive advice. She encourages Meredith to be realistic about her chances with Derek and to prioritize her own happiness. Cristina acts as a grounding force for Meredith, reminding her to remain strong and independent. Cristina’s pragmatic approach is a crucial counterpoint to Meredith’s emotional turmoil.
FAQ 6: What is the significance of the episode title, “Yesterday”?
The title “Yesterday” likely refers to the past, specifically the past that Derek and Addison shared before the affair. It also hints at the potential for them to rebuild their marriage and recapture what they once had. The title suggests a focus on the past and its impact on the present. The title serves as a reminder of the history that informs the present conflicts.
FAQ 7: What are the key medical issues in the case of the week?
The case involves a high-risk pregnancy with potential complications for both the mother and the baby. Addison and the team must navigate a complex situation to ensure the best possible outcome for both patients. The specific medical issues might involve pre-eclampsia, fetal distress, or other pregnancy-related complications. The medical case often mirrors the emotional complexities of the characters’ lives.
FAQ 8: Does George O’Malley have a significant role in this episode?
While George appears, his role is not central to the main storyline. He often provides comic relief or acts as a sounding board for other characters. His interactions are typically less dramatic than those involving Meredith, Derek, and Addison. George often serves as a secondary character to support the main plot lines.
FAQ 9: How does this episode contribute to the overall storyline of season 2?
This episode is crucial for establishing the dynamic between Meredith, Derek, and Addison, which becomes a central plot point for the remainder of the season. It sets the stage for further romantic drama and professional conflicts, ultimately leading to significant character development and pivotal decisions. “Yesterday” is a turning point in the season’s narrative.
FAQ 10: What is the general tone or mood of the episode?
The tone is primarily tense, awkward, and emotionally charged. The episode explores themes of betrayal, heartbreak, and the struggle to make difficult choices. While there are moments of levity, the overall mood is somber and reflective. The episode is designed to evoke strong emotional responses from the audience.
FAQ 11: How does Addison’s character evolve after this episode?
Following this episode, Addison begins to carve her own path at Seattle Grace, showcasing her surgical talents and developing relationships with other characters. She becomes more than just Derek’s wife, establishing herself as a skilled professional and a complex individual with her own flaws and vulnerabilities. Her character development extends far beyond her initial connection to Derek.
FAQ 12: What are some lasting impacts of this episode on Meredith’s character?
“Yesterday” forces Meredith to confront her fears about commitment and her insecurities about her relationship with Derek. This episode marks the beginning of a long and challenging journey for Meredith as she learns to navigate her emotions and make choices that are right for her, even if they are difficult. This experience sets the stage for Meredith’s future growth and self-discovery.