Edwina Sharma and Anthony Bridgerton’s meticulously planned wedding unravels dramatically in episode six, “The Choice,” of Bridgerton season two. This episode marks the definitive end of their romantic entanglement, revealing long-simmering tensions and exposing the truth behind Anthony’s affection for Edwina’s sister, Kate.
The Unraveling of a Fairytale Wedding
Episode six of Bridgerton season two is a masterclass in dramatic tension, culminating in a wedding that never truly happens. From the moment Edwina walks down the aisle, she’s acutely aware of the palpable connection between Anthony and Kate. This awareness crescendos when she catches a stolen glance between them, solidifying her suspicions and setting the stage for a confrontation.
The scene is filled with unspoken words and loaded glances. The weight of Anthony’s suppressed feelings and Kate’s internal turmoil becomes unbearable, finally shattering the facade of a perfect union. Edwina, initially blinded by the grandeur of the occasion and the allure of marrying a Viscount, finally sees the truth: she is not the object of Anthony’s affection, and their marriage is built on a lie.
The Confrontation and the Choice
The emotional climax arrives when Edwina confronts Anthony and Kate in a private room, demanding the truth. The subsequent confession and apologies do little to soothe the pain and betrayal she feels. This scene is pivotal, not just for the dissolution of the wedding but also for Edwina’s character development. She transitions from a naive young woman to a strong, independent individual who refuses to settle for less than genuine love.
Ultimately, Edwina makes the choice to call off the wedding, asserting her agency and rejecting a future based on deceit. This act of self-respect and empowerment resonates deeply, solidifying her as a fan favorite and marking a significant turning point in the season’s narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Edwina and Anthony’s Breakup
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding the dramatic events leading to and following Edwina and Anthony’s aborted wedding:
1. What exactly did Edwina see that made her realize Anthony loved Kate?
Edwina observes a deeply intimate and charged exchange between Anthony and Kate while walking down the aisle. Their intense eye contact and the unspoken communication were undeniable. This, coupled with prior interactions she’d witnessed and brushed aside, suddenly clicked into place, revealing the true nature of their connection.
2. Why did Anthony choose Edwina in the first place if he loved Kate?
Anthony initially chose Edwina due to her perceived suitability as a wife and Viscountess. He sought a practical and advantageous match, believing he could compartmentalize his desires and fulfill his duty to his family. He saw Edwina as kind, gentle, and unburdened by the complexities he associated with Kate. This decision was driven by a flawed sense of responsibility and a fear of truly embracing his emotions.
3. How did Kate feel about Anthony’s engagement to Edwina?
Kate was deeply conflicted. While she harbored feelings for Anthony, she prioritized her sister’s happiness and believed Edwina deserved a good match. She tried to suppress her own emotions and encourage the union, even though it caused her immense pain. Her self-sacrifice and internal conflict were a major driving force behind the season’s dramatic tension.
4. Did Edwina ever forgive Anthony and Kate?
While immediate forgiveness was impossible, Edwina eventually comes to a place of understanding and forgiveness. She acknowledges the genuine connection between Anthony and Kate and recognizes that she wouldn’t have been happy in a marriage built on a lie. This shows her growth and maturity as a character. The final scene with Kate at the Featherington ball implies a reconciliation, though their relationship will likely remain complex.
5. What happens to Edwina after the wedding is called off?
Following the broken engagement, Edwina experiences embarrassment and heartbreak. However, she uses this experience to find her own voice and independence. She begins to see herself as more than just a desirable bride and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. She ultimately attracts the attention of a Prince from Prussia, suggesting a promising future beyond the Bridgerton world.
6. How did Lady Danbury react to the wedding being called off?
Lady Danbury, a key patron of the Sharma sisters, was initially shocked and disappointed by the unraveling of the wedding. She had orchestrated the match and believed it would be beneficial for both families. However, she ultimately sides with Edwina, recognizing the injustice of the situation and respecting her decision to prioritize her own happiness. She continues to support Edwina after the events unfold.
7. Could Anthony and Kate have been together sooner if they had been honest?
Absolutely. The entire season’s conflict stems from their inability to be honest with themselves and each other about their feelings. Had they been upfront, the heartache and drama surrounding the engagement could have been avoided. Honesty and vulnerability are recurring themes throughout the season, and their absence is what fuels the central conflict.
8. Did the Bridgerton family support Anthony’s decision to marry Edwina?
The Bridgerton family largely supported Anthony’s decision, seeing it as a sensible and advantageous match. However, they were also aware of his internal struggles and his apparent lack of genuine affection for Edwina. Some members, like Eloise, voiced their concerns about the superficiality of the connection.
9. How did the Queen react to the wedding drama?
The Queen, a key figure in London society, was highly invested in the wedding. She saw Edwina as a “diamond of the first water” and was eager to see her make a suitable match. The wedding being called off was a major embarrassment for her, disrupting her carefully laid plans and forcing her to confront the complexities of love and desire. She initially struggles with the implications but ultimately finds a renewed appreciation for Edwina’s strength.
10. What impact did the broken engagement have on Kate and Edwina’s relationship?
The broken engagement undoubtedly strained Kate and Edwina’s relationship. Edwina felt betrayed by both Kate and Anthony, leading to feelings of anger and resentment. Rebuilding their bond required time, understanding, and open communication. The final scene suggests they are on the path to reconciliation, but the scars of betrayal will likely linger.
11. Was there any foreshadowing that Anthony and Edwina’s wedding would fail?
Yes, the season is filled with subtle foreshadowing. Anthony and Edwina lacked genuine connection and struggled to engage in meaningful conversations. Anthony’s constant glances towards Kate and his palpable tension whenever she was around were clear indicators that his heart belonged elsewhere. The numerous near-misses and close calls further hinted at the impending disaster.
12. What is the significance of the episode’s title, “The Choice”?
The episode title, “The Choice,” refers to the multitude of choices characters must make throughout the episode. Edwina chooses to call off the wedding, Anthony chooses to confess his feelings (eventually), and Kate chooses to prioritize her own happiness after a season of self-sacrifice. The episode emphasizes the power of agency and the importance of making choices that align with one’s true desires. This underscores the overarching theme of choosing love and happiness over societal expectations and duty.