Anthony Bridgerton and Edwina Sharma’s ill-fated wedding ceremony takes place in Episode 6, “The Choice,” of Season 2 of Bridgerton. While the marriage itself is ultimately called off, the episode is pivotal, brimming with dramatic tension and marking a turning point in the complicated love triangle involving Anthony, Edwina, and Kate.
The Grand Affair That Wasn’t: Unpacking Episode 6
Episode 6 is arguably the most visually opulent of Season 2. The sheer scale of the wedding preparation, the exquisite costumes, and the grandeur of the setting underscore the societal expectations placed upon Anthony and Edwina. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly perfect union, a storm is brewing. The undeniable chemistry between Anthony and Kate becomes increasingly apparent, reaching its climax as Edwina finally witnesses their connection firsthand during the ceremony. This realization prompts her to call off the wedding, shattering the carefully constructed facade of a harmonious match. The episode is a masterclass in dramatic irony, as the audience knows what Edwina doesn’t – until it’s too late (or perhaps, just in time). The episode meticulously portrays the internal conflicts within each character, revealing the complexities of love, duty, and societal pressure.
Beyond the Altar: The Real Story
The focus on Anthony and Edwina’s wedding in Episode 6 overshadows several other crucial plot developments. Lady Whistledown’s identity remains a closely guarded secret, although Penelope Featherington’s precarious position becomes increasingly vulnerable. The simmering tension between the Bridgerton siblings, particularly Colin and Eloise, also plays a significant role in the overall narrative arc of the season. Ultimately, Episode 6 is a crucial turning point, setting the stage for the resolution of the central love triangle and paving the way for Anthony and Kate’s eventual happiness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anthony and Edwina’s Wedding
This section addresses common questions about Anthony and Edwina’s almost-wedding, delving into the details and providing context for the events depicted in “The Choice.”
Question 1: Why was the wedding called off?
Edwina called off the wedding after finally witnessing the intense and undeniable attraction between Anthony and her sister, Kate. The realization dawned on her during the ceremony itself, leaving her feeling betrayed and humiliated. She recognized that Anthony did not truly love her, but rather desired her because she was the “diamond” of the season and fulfilled his requirements for a suitable wife.
Question 2: What role did Lady Danbury play in arranging the marriage?
Lady Danbury played a significant role as a mediator and supporter of the match between Anthony and Edwina. She believed that Edwina was a good match for Anthony and actively encouraged their courtship. She saw the potential for a mutually beneficial union between the families, strengthening her own social standing in the process. However, she was largely unaware of the true feelings between Anthony and Kate.
Question 3: How did Kate feel during the wedding ceremony?
Kate was deeply conflicted during the ceremony. She was torn between her duty to her sister, her loyalty to her family, and her undeniable love for Anthony. Witnessing Anthony prepare to marry Edwina caused her immense pain, yet she felt compelled to uphold the engagement, believing it was the best course of action for her sister’s happiness. Her internal struggle is palpable throughout the episode.
Question 4: Did Anthony ever truly love Edwina?
Anthony’s feelings for Edwina were likely based on admiration and societal expectations rather than true love. He saw her as the perfect candidate for a wife – beautiful, agreeable, and possessing the qualities he sought in a partner. However, his connection with Kate was far more profound, fueled by intense passion and intellectual sparring, which ultimately revealed the superficiality of his relationship with Edwina.
Question 5: What was the societal impact of the wedding being called off?
The cancellation of the wedding caused a significant scandal within London’s high society. It brought disgrace upon both the Bridgerton and Sharma families, jeopardizing their reputations and creating a wave of gossip and speculation. Lady Whistledown, of course, capitalized on the drama, further exacerbating the situation. The event highlighted the fragility of social standing and the importance of reputation in Regency-era England.
Question 6: How did Edwina react after calling off the wedding?
Edwina was initially devastated and angry after calling off the wedding. She felt betrayed by both Anthony and Kate, struggling to reconcile her feelings of love and betrayal. However, she demonstrated remarkable grace and maturity, eventually recognizing that forcing a marriage based on deceit would have been far worse. She ultimately forgave Kate, albeit after a period of understandable resentment.
Question 7: What happened to Edwina after the wedding fiasco?
Edwina, portrayed as a kind and intelligent character, ultimately finds happiness later in the series. It is hinted that she attracted the attention of a Prince during Queen Charlotte’s ball, hinting at a future match of her own and a happy ending, though not necessarily with a Bridgerton.
Question 8: How did the near-wedding affect Anthony and Kate’s relationship?
The near-wedding served as a catalyst for Anthony and Kate to finally acknowledge their true feelings for each other. The drama and emotional turmoil forced them to confront their desires and recognize the impossibility of denying their connection. It ultimately paved the way for their eventual union, albeit after overcoming further obstacles.
Question 9: What role did Queen Charlotte play in the events surrounding the wedding?
Queen Charlotte was highly invested in the match between Anthony and Edwina, as she had chosen Edwina as the “diamond” of the season. The Queen saw the potential for a politically advantageous alliance and was initially angered by the wedding’s cancellation. However, she eventually came to appreciate Edwina’s character and even played a role in hinting at a potential suitor of royal lineage.
Question 10: Is Anthony and Edwina’s wedding mentioned in the Bridgerton novels?
The Bridgerton series of novels, written by Julia Quinn, served as the inspiration for the television adaptation. Anthony and Edwina’s engagement and subsequent failed wedding are indeed detailed in The Viscount Who Loved Me, the second book in the series, though certain plot elements and character nuances are adapted for the screen.
Question 11: What are the main themes explored in the wedding episode?
Several key themes are explored: the conflict between duty and desire, the pressures of societal expectations, the complexities of love and betrayal, the importance of honesty and communication, and the pursuit of genuine happiness over superficial appearances. The episode acts as a microcosm of the overarching themes of the entire Bridgerton series.
Question 12: Was there a specific historical inspiration for Anthony and Edwina’s storyline?
While Bridgerton is a work of fiction, it draws inspiration from historical aspects of Regency-era England, particularly the social dynamics, marriage customs, and the importance of reputation. The pressure on young women to secure advantageous marriages, the role of matchmakers like Lady Danbury, and the societal consequences of scandal are all rooted in historical realities. However, the specific details of Anthony and Edwina’s storyline are largely fictional.