The climactic final episode of A Discovery of Witches Season 2 answered the central question – can Matthew and Diana successfully complete their mission in Elizabethan England and return to their own time with the Book of Life? – with a resounding, albeit bittersweet, yes. While they secured the crucial missing pages and strengthened their bond, the cost was steep, leaving them poised on the precipice of a devastating war against the Congregation.
The Journey’s End: A Costly Victory
Season 2 wrapped up a whirlwind journey through 16th-century England, forcing Diana and Matthew to confront their histories, forge unlikely alliances, and grapple with the devastating power of the Book of Life. The finale, “Episode Eight,” was a masterful blend of suspense, emotional resonance, and crucial plot developments. Diana, having fully embraced her powers as a Weaver, faced her father’s killer, Benjamin Fuchs, ultimately sparing him, a decision that highlights her growing moral compass. Matthew, wrestling with his own demons and the brutal legacy of the Knights of Lazarus, solidified his commitment to Diana and to a future where creatures can coexist peacefully.
The episode culminated in their successful retrieval of the missing pages from the Book of Life, secured with the help of the alchemist Edward Kelley and the enigmatic Emperor Rudolf II. Their return to the present, facilitated by Diana’s impressive control over time walking, was a moment of palpable relief, but it was short-lived. They arrived in Sept-Tours to find it under attack, a stark reminder of the dangers that await them. The Congregation, driven by Peter Knox’s thirst for power and the secrets held within the Book of Life, has declared war, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown in Season 3.
The Book of Life: Unlocking the Secrets
The Book of Life remained a central focus throughout the season, and its significance only intensified in the finale. Diana’s ability to “read” the book, to understand its living, breathing essence, proved pivotal in deciphering its secrets and securing the missing pages. The episode strongly suggests that the book holds not just historical information, but also the very key to understanding and potentially altering the nature of creatures.
The Pages and Their Power
The missing pages, now in Diana’s possession, are implied to contain vital knowledge about the origin of creatures, particularly the genetic mutations that create witches, vampires, and daemons. This knowledge is dangerous in the wrong hands, as Peter Knox intends to exploit it for his own nefarious purposes, potentially even eradicating vampires and daemons.
Diana’s Role as the Weaver
Diana’s emergence as a Weaver, a witch capable of manipulating the very fabric of magic, grants her a unique connection to the Book of Life. Her ability to weave spells, heal injuries, and control time makes her a powerful protector of the book and a formidable opponent against the Congregation. The finale further solidified her role as a chosen one, destined to play a pivotal role in the future of creaturekind.
Facing the Future: Alliances and Conflicts
The finale also highlighted the fractured state of the creature world and the complex web of alliances that will shape the coming war.
Sept-Tours Under Siege
The attack on Sept-Tours was a brutal reminder of the imminent threat posed by the Congregation. It served as a catalyst, forcing the de Clermont family to unite and prepare for war. Ysabeau’s unwavering defense of Sept-Tours, despite her own vulnerabilities, showcased her strength and resolve.
The Knights of Lazarus: A Troubled Legacy
Matthew’s past as a Knight of Lazarus continues to haunt him. The secrets and betrayals within the order were brought to the surface in Elizabethan England, forcing him to confront the violence and prejudice that shaped his identity. His commitment to breaking free from that legacy and forging a new path with Diana is a testament to his character development.
The Congregation’s Threat
Peter Knox remains the primary antagonist, his ambition and fanaticism driving the Congregation’s aggressive pursuit of the Book of Life. The Congregation’s actions in the finale underscore its willingness to resort to violence and manipulation to achieve its goals, solidifying its role as the central threat to creature peace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Season 2 Finale
Q1: Why did Diana spare Benjamin Fuchs?
Diana’s decision to spare Benjamin stemmed from her growing understanding of the complexities of morality. While Benjamin committed a terrible act by killing her father, Diana recognized that he was also a product of his own circumstances and had been manipulated by Peter Knox. She chose compassion over revenge, demonstrating a shift in her character towards a more nuanced approach to justice.
Q2: What is the significance of the missing pages of the Book of Life?
The missing pages contain crucial information about the origin and evolution of creatures, particularly the genetic factors that differentiate witches, vampires, and daemons. This knowledge could potentially be used to create new creatures, cure diseases, or, as Peter Knox intends, to eradicate certain species.
Q3: How did Diana and Matthew return to the present?
Diana used her powers as a Weaver to manipulate time and space, creating a portal that allowed them to travel back to Sept-Tours. This ability highlights the extent of her powers and her growing control over time walking.
Q4: What are the implications of the attack on Sept-Tours?
The attack signifies the escalation of the conflict between the Congregation and the de Clermont family. It demonstrates the Congregation’s willingness to use violence and force to achieve its objectives and sets the stage for a full-scale war in Season 3.
Q5: What role will Gallowglass play in Season 3?
Gallowglass, having remained in Elizabethan England, will likely play a significant role in protecting the remaining allies and gathering intelligence. His loyalty to Matthew and his understanding of the political landscape make him a valuable asset.
Q6: Will we see more of Marcus and Phoebe in Season 3?
Yes, Marcus and Phoebe will undoubtedly play crucial roles in Season 3. Marcus’s dedication to the Congregation’s charter and Phoebe’s burgeoning powers as a witch will be essential as they navigate the escalating conflict.
Q7: What will happen to Baldwin Montclair now that he knows Matthew is a vampire?
Baldwin’s knowledge of Matthew’s true nature will likely create further tension within the de Clermont family. His loyalty to the Congregation may be challenged as he is forced to choose between his family and his allegiance.
Q8: How powerful is Diana compared to other witches?
Diana, as a Weaver, is exceptionally powerful, surpassing most witches in terms of her abilities. Her unique connection to the Book of Life and her control over time walking make her a force to be reckoned with.
Q9: What is the ultimate goal of Peter Knox?
Peter Knox seeks to eradicate vampires and daemons and establish the dominance of witches, believing that they are the superior species. He intends to use the knowledge contained in the Book of Life to achieve this goal.
Q10: How will Matthew and Diana protect the Book of Life?
Matthew and Diana will likely employ a combination of magic, strategy, and alliances to protect the Book of Life from falling into the wrong hands. Their combined strength and their network of allies will be crucial in their defense.
Q11: What other creatures or historical figures might appear in Season 3?
While speculation is rife, Season 3 could potentially introduce new creatures or revisit historical figures mentioned earlier in the series. The focus, however, will likely remain on the core conflict between the Congregation and the de Clermont family.
Q12: What is the overall message of A Discovery of Witches?
At its core, A Discovery of Witches is a story about acceptance, love, and the importance of breaking down prejudice and fear. It explores the challenges of coexistence in a world divided by species and the power of individuals to challenge the status quo and create a more equitable future. The sacrifices made and choices taken during season two are essential in setting up the stage for the ultimate battle against discrimination and the quest for harmonious unity of all creatures.