Cristina Yang and Preston Burke’s first kiss occurs in Episode 13 of Season 1, “Great Expectations.” This pivotal moment marks the beginning of a complex and often tumultuous romantic relationship, setting the stage for one of Grey’s Anatomy‘s most memorable pairings.
A Moment Years in the Making: Deconstructing the Scene
Cristina and Burke’s initial attraction is subtly built throughout the first season. Their shared ambition, intellectual sparring, and undeniable chemistry simmer beneath the surface of their professional interactions. Before the kiss, their relationship is primarily defined by mutual respect and a degree of competitive professional tension. Burke, a renowned cardiothoracic surgeon, initially views Cristina as a talented but somewhat reckless intern. Cristina, in turn, sees Burke as a demanding but brilliant mentor. This dynamic, rich with undercurrents of attraction, crescendos in “Great Expectations.”
The episode itself explores themes of expectation and reality in relationships. As Dr. Meredith Grey grapples with her own complicated relationship with Derek Shepherd, Cristina finds herself increasingly drawn to Burke’s confidence and quiet strength. The defining scene unfolds in the hospital locker room. Cristina, emotionally vulnerable after a challenging day, unexpectedly finds Burke. The atmosphere is charged with unspoken feelings. After a brief but intense conversation, they share their first kiss – a moment that surprises them both and ignites the passionate romance that follows.
The significance of this kiss extends far beyond a simple romantic gesture. It fundamentally alters the power dynamic between them, blurring the lines between mentor and student. It forces both characters to confront their feelings and consider the implications of a relationship that could potentially jeopardize their careers. Moreover, the kiss acts as a catalyst, propelling Cristina and Burke into a committed relationship that is tested by ambition, personal demons, and ultimately, Burke’s own anxieties.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Cristina and Burke’s Romance
Here are answers to frequently asked questions regarding Cristina and Burke’s relationship and its initial spark:
How did Cristina and Burke’s relationship develop before the first kiss?
Before the kiss, their relationship was primarily professional. They interacted mostly in surgical settings, where Burke mentored Cristina and challenged her abilities. There were subtle hints of attraction, such as Burke’s protectiveness of Cristina and Cristina’s eagerness to impress him. These interactions laid the groundwork for the romantic tension that eventually culminated in their first kiss. The underlying current of respect and competitive spirit made their connection intriguing from the very beginning.
What was Cristina’s emotional state in “Great Expectations”?
In “Great Expectations,” Cristina is particularly stressed and emotionally vulnerable. This vulnerability is heightened by the demanding nature of her work and the challenges she faces in proving herself as a surgeon. This vulnerability likely played a role in her willingness to reciprocate Burke’s advances and let her guard down.
What was Burke’s motivation for kissing Cristina?
Burke’s motivations were likely complex, a mixture of professional admiration and genuine attraction. He recognized Cristina’s talent and was drawn to her ambition. The kiss can be interpreted as a manifestation of his growing feelings and a willingness to risk the professional boundaries that previously defined their relationship. It’s also possible that he was responding to Cristina’s vulnerability and seeing an opening to express his attraction.
How did other characters react to their relationship initially?
Their relationship was met with mixed reactions. Some colleagues were supportive, while others questioned the ethical implications of a relationship between a attending and an intern. Meredith Grey, Cristina’s best friend, was initially surprised but ultimately supportive. The hospital hierarchy added another layer of complexity to their relationship, forcing them to navigate the delicate balance between their personal and professional lives.
Did the power dynamic between them change after the kiss?
Yes, the power dynamic fundamentally shifted after the kiss. The lines between mentor and mentee blurred, leading to new challenges and complications. Cristina had to grapple with being in a relationship with her superior, while Burke had to navigate the responsibility of being in a relationship with someone he was also mentoring.
What were some of the biggest challenges they faced as a couple?
Cristina and Burke faced numerous challenges, including their differing ambitions, their inability to communicate effectively, and Burke’s controlling tendencies. They also struggled to reconcile their personal and professional lives, often prioritizing their careers over their relationship. This ultimately led to tension and conflict.
How did Cristina’s ambition affect their relationship?
Cristina’s relentless ambition was a significant source of conflict. Burke often felt threatened by her drive and struggled to accept her unwavering focus on her career. This created friction, as they both wanted to be the best and often competed with each other, blurring the lines of a supportive relationship.
Why did Burke ultimately leave Cristina at the altar?
Burke left Cristina at the altar because he realized he couldn’t change her and that she wasn’t willing to compromise her ambitions for him. He recognized that he needed someone who would prioritize their relationship, and he understood that Cristina’s priority was always surgery. This heartbreaking decision highlighted the fundamental incompatibility between them.
Did Cristina ever truly get over Burke?
While Cristina moved on with her life and career, the impact of Burke’s departure lingered. It shaped her future relationships and reinforced her commitment to her career. Although she found happiness and success, the experience with Burke undoubtedly left a lasting mark.
How did Burke leaving affect Cristina’s character development?
Burke leaving was a pivotal moment in Cristina’s character development. It forced her to confront her vulnerabilities and insecurities. It reinforced her independence and strengthened her resolve to succeed in her career on her own terms. She emerged as an even stronger and more determined surgeon, although with a deeper understanding of the complexities of love and loss.
What happened to Burke after he left Seattle Grace?
After leaving Seattle Grace, Burke moved to Switzerland and became a renowned cardiothoracic surgeon, eventually running his own hospital. He later contacted Cristina to offer her the position of head of cardiothoracic surgery at his hospital, which she ultimately accepted, leading to her own departure from Grey’s Anatomy.
Is there any possibility of Cristina and Burke getting back together in the future?
While their story concluded with Cristina taking over Burke’s hospital in Switzerland, the possibility of a romantic reunion remains a tantalizing question for fans. Given Sandra Oh’s departure from the series and Isaiah Washington’s controversial exit, a permanent reconciliation seems unlikely, but Grey’s Anatomy has been known to surprise its audience. Ultimately, their story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and compromises that are often necessary in love and the enduring power of personal ambition.