The second season of Bridgerton has finally been released. Eight episodes, some longer than an hour each, will occupy fans’ minds for the weeks to come. Although the second season of this series remains on the setting of society and marriage in London during the early 1800s, viewers can expect a completely different plot from the previous season. First of all, the main characters of season one, Daphne and Simon, are not the focus of this season. In fact, Simon makes no appearance at all. Though you would expect to be disappointed by their lack of a presence, we can guarantee that you won’t miss them. Instead, this season stars Daphne’s brother and the patriarch of the Bridgerton family, Viscount Anthony. Anthony has decided to find a wife this season, which shifts the perspective of last year’s female view on finding a husband. Lady Whistledown also makes a reappearance, which prompts the Queen to try to shake up the season through her choice of the Diamond. A new family is introduced, one of scandal and loyalty, and its two sisters are destined to flip Anthony Bridgerton’s life upside down. 

Yet like last season, we see a common theme in that the story is centered on classic romance tropes like enemies to lovers, pining, and secret relationships; all of which rare in 19th century London. There was so much angst and lingering glances that we were constantly on the edge of our seats, waiting to see what would happen next. We both binged the entire season in one weekend, and are already debating rewatching it. The intricacies of this season are just incredible. For example, the color palettes for each character’s clothing symbolize the relationships that are to come of the season, filled with gorgeous blues, teals, and lilacs. There is also incredible Indian representation this season, and we are excited to see the addition of cultural diversity. The writers of Bridgerton did an excellent job of incorporating Indian culture into the new characters’ lives while also not creating token characters. These characters, the two Sharma sisters, are new to London and are characters that have interesting, juxtaposing personalities. The elder sister, Kate, is determined to protect her younger sister, Edwina, and find her a husband. Kate is rebellious, loyal, and strong-willed. Though I don’t recommend this show for younger viewers, she would make an incredible role model for girls everywhere.  

Likewise, there is an even more prominent plotline of historic feminism which can be found in a Bridgerton sister, Eloise. Although a character with less screen time than her brother, Anthony, her subplot was one of our favorite parts of this season. Furthermore, we see her frustrations with London’s 19th-century view on women come to fruition. The viewers watch Eloise as she sneaks away from her conservative, image-based family to attend politically radical rallies and even meet a love interest of her own. Similar to Kate Sharma, Eloise has also proven to be a role model for women as she is fearless and determined in her ambitions. 

Although we were not able to touch on every aspect of Bridgerton’s second season in order to avoid spoilers, we hope that this little taste will entice you all to treat yourself to this eight-hour masterpiece. As Lady Whistledown once said, “Desperate times may call for desperate measures”.