Portia is the only one who found out about Pen and said OUT LOUD that Pen even wrote scathing things about herself.... everyone else just skipped that!
colin calling portia out for caring about social standards is lovely, but also incredibly shortsighted and privileged and clueless. colin is the third son of the richest family around, even with losing tjeir father, they never had to worry about anyone’s future and they never will. the featheringtons are at the bottom of the totem pole, even when lord featherington was alive, portia had to constantly worry about her daughters future. colin being all high and mighty about social standing is just like portia with her daughters: good intentions, ridiculously misguided approach
I kind of wanted to see Portia rip Colin a new one. It was her house he stormed into, and all of her points were valid, even though they were articulated horribly.
I am clapping 👏 out loud! The other though I have is: one thing is Pen talking sh*t about her family and another thing is Colin. I live often this issue with my husband. My mum has been quite abusive but after growing up I know that she has her traumas and ignorance (on mental health and parenting). It is even true that I "couldn't" free myself until I got married but my husband has no business to talk sh*t even if with good intentions. Portia and Penelope bond got fixed after that scene and I hope in future she will stand for her mother reputation (because the look the Bton gave to Portia in the church had me fuming).
@@CW-rx2jsTHANK YOU! Portia was criticizing Penelope harshly and saying she “entrapped Colin with [her] wiles.” That is a disgusting thing to say about anyone, let alone YOUR OWN CHILD. I’m shocked at how Portia defenders ignore this (and her history of putting Penelope down in this way…and implicitly encouraging Penelope’s sisters to do the same)
The Featheringtons are literally part of the ton and aristocracy. They are not at the bottom of the totem pole. They aren’t paupers from a Charles Dickens’s novel.
A weird take, maybe, but Portia is actually my favourite character. She's no angel and for sure is flawed but who isn't? And she TRIES to be better. She recognizes her wrongdoings and tries really hard to be better. She should have done that earlier, before her daughter got marreid but to be honest there is so many parents that never do acknowledge their mistakes, so beter late then never. And also, in her crooked way, all she's done, she's done for her family. She's trying to change the way she shows love and that's really admirable.
She's my favourite too❤ I like how she is sheds of gray 🩶 I love this video about her character ruclips.net/video/zoBIl8-I3o0/видео.htmlsi=UtHLeHD5U92QO3J6
No honestly I actually love Portia so much she's always trying to play chess with all the pieces she knows and ngl for what happened she's been successful. Even when she was focusing more on Penelope this season and her other daughters wanted to host a ball - she was happy to see them all having a good time.
I do feel like Portia's change felt natural and sincere, not to mention the costume designers putting Penelope in Portia's style of gown, it was no surprise to me that things were going to work out between them.
Yes it was a natural change that she needed tbh after Colin told her enough picking on my wife and everything and she turned her self around and pen could tell her her secret and felt like she could do anything
My favorite part of the season was Featherington's storyline. I loved that her family (the Featheringtons) helped and supported her when she revealed herself as Lady Whistledown. When people started murmuring her sister used the butterflies as a distraction and her brother-in-law started clapping. The Bridgerton's really didn't do much to support her.
So true! The way they all came to support one another, not just pen. I loved the scene with the butterflies especially when Prudence calls Philippa a genius, because ist such a contrast to how she usually belittles her intelligence, calling her a dunderhead and such. The way all the insults between the Featheringtons got turned around was lovely to see!
I disagree per se, to that point of Pens life knowing them the Bridgertons are her support, welcoming her into the home, friendship with Eloise - they made her life more tenable with the family drama she's had. At the ball they're waiting to see how the Ton reacts to the revelation, they would've strategized and did what's necessary for Pen like they did the botched wedding the season prior. By that event she is a Bridgerton with 3 other respectably married titled in laws. One good European tour with her husband, coming back pregnant, the Ton will have moved on. They did lessen Colin's book influence in favor of this story arc for the relationship of mother and daughter. I'll have to rewatch, I thought the program called for "bugs" to release after the queen or whomever addressed the assembly or last dance, but thinking how they weren't expecting the Queen maybe Phillipa was trying to redirect the ire of some of those negatively affected by whistledown. But I did notice Finch getting the applause in gear if not to support his wife's favored contribution to the ball, also show his support Pen.
I don't care about Bridgerton, but if the show was called Featherington? I'd watch the hell out of it. Portia's and Penelope's relationship especially fits the complicated mother-daughter storylines I find so fascinating.
I love the scene where they are playing Charades and Portia is getting answers right too, shows her and Penelope are both clever in ways many others aren’t.
When Portia found out about Lady Whistledown’s identity I was eager for her and Penelope to start scheming together how to bring down Cressida, Portia is so good with schemes and plans 😅 instead Colin went ahead and made things worse and then Penelope had to sort everything herself 😂
Me too! I was looking forward to Portia flipping things around with Cressida in a 'dubious' way. Portia strikes me as someone who had to do things for herself in an unfair society as that.... childhood, marriage and parenting. Portia is actually 1 out of my 3 favourite characters.
The only thing I don't like is how Penelope stans woobify and infantilize her. Glossing over everything she has done but blaming other characters for slightest of misdeeds
I always got the feeling that Portia had a difficult life just watching her marriage and that she was desperate to get her daughters out of society, so now realizing how Penelope broke the mold and made something for herself was so sweet. some mothers do not know how to communicate so it was nice to see her soport her during this time, great character develoment, hope we can see her more in the next season
The thing is, it’s harsh to judge Portia by modern parenting standards. In the regency era, Portia would be acting how a mother would be expected to act regarding her daughters. While the show loves to emphasise the importance of love matches, in reality they were quite rare especially among the elite where titles, wealth and land were considered far more valuable assets than the potential of love. Portia was doing well by her daughter to encourage her to marry Lord Debling who had all three of these things which would also ultimately protect Penelope as the Featheringtons risked being turned out of their own home. Lord Debling, despite his eccentries, was young, attractive and honourable which would have made him an ideal match for any young woman, especially in a time where women were often forced to marry men much more older than them, like with Cressida. Portia thought she was doing right by her daughter and in the time period, she was. This doesn’t mean Portia didn’t make any mistakes and that she didn’t emotionally hurt Penelope, because she did and this is something Portia learns and grows from.
Portia is one of my favorite characters. She is VERY smart and knows how to play the system. A subtle player in the game and that makes her one of the best. Plus she LOVES her daughters very much and all of them are happily married, she gave them what she couldn’t have
Sure, but this isn't historical fiction, this is historical fantasy. And I think rather than judging her by regency standards, we should judge her within the standards Bridgeton sets up, which align much more to modern sensibilities than anything even slightly regency based.
@@TheEmmaHouli I could same what I agree with you statement. There is no good example of modern standards in mothers in Bridgertons. Even Violet is not perfect. She wasn't there for Antony when her husband/his father died. She didn't properly explain Dafni Frist night. She doesn't listen to Eloise and Francesca... Don't get me wrong I love Violet and she is a good mother in the show but she is far from perfect.
@@TheEmmaHouli I know Bridgertons is not historically accurate. There are times when they are and when they are not. But I think that we have to have a little bit of historical context to understand characters because the author chose this time period for a reason to tell the story. I love to separate historical (accurate) / documentary and historically inspired. I wish you a good day ❤️❤️❤️
@@TheEmmaHouli I think I see your point but two notable issues w/ that argument. First is the point about genre. Bridgerton is first and foremost historical fiction, period. Specifically it's a regency era England historical romance and as is the original book series. It's in no way a historical fantasy. Historical fantasy mixes conventional fantasy genre elements with historical settings while historical romance is romance tropes but in a specific period in the past. The show doesn't need to be historically accurate. Of course we're all viewing the show through a modern lens because we're living in modern times so that's all we have but if we're being fair, we still have to factor in the sensibilities of the time period in which the story is set when evaluating characters. Second, we're three seasons in and how many do we know that truly raised their own children besides Mama Bridergton? The Mondrichs don't count, as they joined the ton overnight from a working class background. The Bridgerton family gets the exception because they're literally point of the show, we're supposed to always root for and empathize with them so they're going more aligned with modern. Portia from the start has been at least believable in her perspective and most of her actions. OJudging mothers in a regency era story by social standards from 100+ later doesn't make sense, fiction or not. Lastly, I wasn't trying to be mean or talk down to you in any way. It was intended add to polite discussion rather than being rude. I hope that came across, and that you're well.
@@scarletc.gilliam9575 that was wonderfully put. Thanks for your opinion. I am not an expert at explaining genres. I agree with your point of view. You put a great argument about why I think we should give more grace to characters. And honestly poor people didn't have time to raise their children while the rich would live rising of their children to their servants and teachers and would "parent" their children when they are older how to full file their role someday. ❤️
I don't think people are talking enough about their scenes and relationship this season. I was absolutely enthralled by the two of them and the growth of their relationship this season
my turning point with Portia was at the end of season 2 when she stood up to cousin jack and sent him packing. I would love to see her get the Queen Charlotte treatment, maybe as the B plot if there is a sequel to that.
The moment when Portia held Penelope’s hand when the queen came was a small moment that touched me. It felt like she was in a tiny way supporting and backing her daughter, and I loved it. 😭💗I didn’t expect this, but the featheringtons, all of them, were one of the best parts of the season for me.
Portia was the only character this season that got the correct amount of screentime, i would have even been happy with more. Mainly because she is actually important to the main couple, who did not even get a feaction of the screentime they needed. The writers did everybody else dirty.
I love how when it comes out that she's LW, Portia says that she *knew* Penelope disappeared at every ball. I always figured she didn't notice that her daughter left because she didn't care to notice. But she did notice. She noticed and she never gave her shit for it because she knew that Pen only has so much social stamina and thought that she went home due to burn out Also, I think Prudence deserves props as well. She was such a bitch for so long. Once her pregnancy (which her mom pressured on her) started to get overshadowed by Penelope's engagement, I thought she was going to do something crazy. But no. She clapped so sweetly at the wedding and looked very emotional. She gave Penelope a genuine compliment, probably the forst in her life. And her face during Pen's speech...she really *saw* her sister for the first time. I only wish we got to see the conversation between them after
It was interesting to see the family dynamics develop of the featheringtons vs the cowpers too. I hoped that Cressida would find a way out but the fact that she couldn’t was also brilliant and sort of sad.
I think she’s a great woman but I would still argue that Violet is the best mother. Tho a lot of that comes with the fact that they’re very secure financially so she’s actually able to focus on her children’s lives. Portia tho is amazing for being able to provide that sense of security for her children. Portia is the best dad LMAO.
I've always enjoyed Portia as a character. She's far from perfect but I think that's what makes her and the rest of the Featheringtons so interesting and fun to watch. I really was not expecting this arc for her in pt 2 and really loved it.
I think Portia just chose to be frank to the one who was supposed to be the “clever” one. So tough love on her Pen, I was kinda thinking a lot like the featheringtons are the bennetts of this show.
Totally, I think Portia is a lot like Elizabeth's mom, but is interesting to see a woman to defend their girls with marriages because that was security for women. A contrasting with Violet idea of romance because Bridgertons have the privilege to choose who they want to marry. Not once, not twice but we see this issue three times, Daphne not choosing to marry the prince (not common for this time to deny a marriage like that but ok) Anthony choosing Kate over Edwina After they were going to marry (that big issue evaporates when Kanthony marry, and Colin wanting to marry the cousin and then kind of stealing the bride of Lord Devlin I know this is a fantasy Victorian style but even the restrictive rules for marriages are all over the place 😑 they don't have chaperone
Thank you so much for acknowledging that the most these kind of parent's do is say "I was trying to protect you" without ever explaining how on earth the actions that harmed their children were meant to protect them, and just assuming that we would, or indeed SHOULD, understand automatically. Too many people, both perpetrators and outsiders to the situation, downplay or just plain don't see the amount of damage this causes to both the child and the relationship as a whole.
In the books Penelope found the family she needed in the Bridgertons. In the series not only became one of them but also healed with hers as well. She´s now a Bridgerton but would always be a Featherington. Polly has being doing an amazing job as Portia since season one and I think that´s the reason I´ve never hated her completely, I loved she walked with Penelope in the wedding cause I really thought she´d do it alone. It was really a nice surprise the development the Featheringtons had in this season, no doubt it was one of my most favorite things of it
While watching this season, I was so satisfied with this storyline to develop this growth and make Portia’s character more clear to the audience that she is very much Violet’s FOIL. They are both mothers who will fight for their children tooth and nail. The only difference is their upbringing which has shaped their experiences and their families. I’m not at all surprised by her backstory, it shows up clearly in her values and repeating everything they’ve learned from her childhood. These lives are very real for people even in this time period. I often think of Portia and Georgia from Ginny & Georgia. She’s protecting her kids from what she knows can happen in life and is so rigid in those beliefs. Honestly Portia is one of my favorite’s from a literary perspective. This was done beautifully.
I also loved this evolution in part 2 between the 2 of them. Polly Walker is such a great actress and it was subtle and beautiful acted. I also really like the fact that they showed Portia guessing a charade in episode 5, proving that Pen and her are actually more alike than they would like to think and also that Portia is smart. We knew it (the audience) of course but she hides it behind social tropes and facades. I thought it was clever
Portia and Pen accusing each other for tricking the Ton was great writing. Mom n daughter both realizing they are same sheep in different wool . Also despite being angry at Pen , Portia was the only one who acknowledged power of Whistledown. The idiot brother n sister Bridgetons just tried to downgrade her work or use it to save Brudgeton name.
I would love to see more of Portias backstory. I believe she was wall mining. She wasnt perfect parent but she was doing what she could and knows. I think the Penelope is most like her mother of all Portias dathers. And maybe 🤔 they personalitys clash because of that.
I would also want to see her story. Some part of me really thinks that she's a better mother than Violet. She always puts her children first though sometimes it's too much especially for Pen. Violet always reminds her children that it's important for them to find love while Portia opens her daughters' eyes that it's not always about that especially in that period.
@@kathrinamanuel6174 She wasn't there for Antony when her husband/his father died. She didn't properly explain Dafni Frist night. She doesn't listen to Eloise and Francesca... I love Violet but she is far away from perfect. I always think of Portia as the most reasonable mother in the show. She knows her daughters are not the most beautiful and smart. She's not in denial like the same of other moms. She never pushed them beyond their capabilities. The only thing she wanted is to marry their daughters to a respectable stable man. I really felt when she said stability is romantic. ❤️
@@kathrinamanuel6174 yes! I thought I was the only one who felt this way. I feel like Violet did not do her kids justice. All she tells him is to look for this fairytale, magical love and not even explain in detail of real marital relations and married life.
@@ViktorijaSarac exactly! Violet was not there. She checked out and left Anthony with the burden. Which I know he is head of household after the passing of their father. However, she could’ve done better.
When Portia said, "What dreams? Ladies don't have dreams. They have husbands." I was really able to feel like she was talking about herself. You could feel the helplessness and despair in her words. It actually made me tear up.
The actress playing Portia (Polly Walker) also played Attia in the HBO series Rome, and its a very similar character/arc. Whoever thought to cast Polly as Coughlan’s mother was a damn genius.
Here in 2024, there are still plenty of families where the youngest daughter, the last unmarried daughter, etc. is expected to take care of her mother in old age. Even in families where all of the children are “allowed” to go off and start their own families, the majority of elder care falls on adult daughters. Statistically, it’s far more “acceptable” for male children to chip in on expenses while female children are expected to devote time and personal care, move closer for accessibility or have aging parents move in with them. “Bridgerton” is happily ever after, but I’m very curious to see if Portia’s future gets addressed in this way. Even if (no spoilers) the law still holds that her first male grandchild will secure her husband’s title, I.e. prevent her family from losing the home like the Austen women, will she still be rattling around alone now that all of her daughters have moved out?
I think it was really well done. This is not a perfect relationship, by no means... But it felt real. The part where Portia said she wished better luck for her girls than what she had.. Whoa, that hit home.
Portia appears more damaged than malicious. She's had to scratch and fight at one point and it's hardened her. I would love to see see more on her backstory.
i liked the way that pen and her mother now are in a better situation, but i hoped to see more with her sisters, specially with prudence. by the way i hope to see more on the next seasons about polin and how pen lives with everyone knowing that she is lw. i mean, yeah, the words she said at her family ball's was good but... she actually offended a lot of people, so i really wanna see something about it, like aproching or something. and also, she will gossip like she used to? everyone knows who she is, so that can be problem... im really excited for the next season
I like this a lot!! Thank you!! I’ve been focusing a lot on other characters I’m happy about, because I was so disappointed Polin didn’t get enough growth or screen time… But you are so damn right- I am so happy for Penelope’s growth and story with her FAMILIAL relationships. So that’s how I can be excited/satisfied with her season. 🙏
It was my favorite throughout the whole season! ❤ As a book reader I have a lot of issues with Part 2 BUT the progression between mother & daughter overshadowed my problems with the season. As someone who had a doting but self-conscious mom, I can understand the tough love or frank approach of Portia. The truth is NO ONE is perfect! What you can’t deny about her is she CHOSE HER DAUGHTERS. It may not be perfectly executed but you can see since season 1 how she wants her daughters to at least have a better life than she had. I believe she succeeded COMPLETELY as all her daughters actually found HUSBANDS that ADORE them! It’s an amazing feat really. I cried over watching those vulnerable scenes of Portia and it made me MISS MY MOM SO MUCH 😢
The healing, understanding and growth that went on between them brought me to tears. And they actually are a lot a like. Portia didn’t have a happy or easy life and she loved and looked out for her girls above all even if it wasn’t in a warm and fuzzy way. I adore Colin. However, Colin has a very privileged perspective on “standing” as a man, and as a child from a super rich secure family , which is why his talk w/ Cressida also didn’t work. Their talks and intelligence between mother and daughter, were so brief but deep.
I was quite upset about how things ended for Cressida and why they did her so much screen time and redemption arc (so much that I cared for her even after the blackmailing) but in the end when Pen saved the situation (orchesting the revelation with the queen, and paying for her sisters ball) she didn't save Cressida. But Probably her story mirrored Portia's story in some way. It is just a shame that after the background Cres has (I watched too much criminal minds to not see the reasons behind the behavior) and after MANY good things Cres does: 1) does not reveal colin & pen 2) confronts Eloise that believe to be a better person than she actually is 3) when dancing with Debling after insinuating the Eros&Psyke thing she rettifies (she could have enfored the idea to keep Debling for her) 4) she asked repeatedly help to Eloise for her situation but Eloise was too taken by Colin & Pen to listen. 5) she was abbandoned and had no other choise if not blackmail 6) she faces colin telling him that he is JELOUS of LW... And even when El and Pen are talking on the couch about Cres they didn't take the time to say that yes El chose Cres because she was petty but after knowing her Cres IS NOT a heartless villain. Not even that!
@@carlalussini you shouldn't have to give anyone money to shut up from harassing & blackmailing your family & friends just because they have been through hard times at home.
@@Ballerinaa Im not saying you should be obliged to it, I'm saying one can choose to be compassionate and use privilege/money to help those in need, specially knowing that when the tables where turned, they where there for you. So, she's not "wrong" for not even thinking what would be the best outcome for everyone including Cressida, but it would have been nice of her.
@carlalussini yes exactly. Blackmailing is wrong. But even gossiping to the point of ruing lives or taking money from the ton with a scam (or try to marry a guy while pregnant of another one). They are ALL bad action. But we got to learn that there are reasons behind. The women of those times had to survive. And it is so OOC from El when: 1) tells Cres that if shouting could help she would do it... but infact doesn't do ANYTHING! Even writing bad about that old man could be a solution (like they did with Nigel Berbrook) 2) When she tells Pen that now that she is a Bton she needs to give up to LW for Colin (WHERE IS FEMINIST EL???) And now that she knows Cres reasons doesn't not even try. To be honest I get that they have to get to the drama for the sake of the story bit when Colin, El, Portia and Pen are all in the same room and SUDDENLY everyone just listen to Colin... is do OOC for El. She could be sided Pen about paying Cres and Colin would do anyway as he liked and ruin things. And Elis so mean badmouthing Cres when speaking with Pen on the sofa. They could just agree that Cres had her problems. I really wish they handled things differently about this.
I genuinely think this season was as good as other seasons - in fact, maybe better, but not necessarily in a romantic sense. While it is true we needed more Polin moments(there is talk of them having a pretty sizeable side role in Season 4), the sheer development of the characters as a whole was pretty insane. Portia and Penelope are some of my favorite characters, and it was lovely seeing this unexpected development. I truly think that, with another episode or with these, had they been a touch longer, we could`ve gotten the very best of Bridgerton universe. I still love this season a lot, but I am hoping they release cut Polin moments as there`s a pretty big petition going around. And if not, at least we`ll see them in Season 4.
The first half of the season didn't give me hope for the character arcs, but the second half surprised me pleasantly. Starting with the communicative consentual sex scene tween Pen and Colin, is so beautiful to see an onscreen sex scene, especially one where the female is a virgin, show them communicating, shows the experienced partner taking time to allow for informed consent before and during, he clearly tried to ensure she was ready physically before he entered her and make her happy during the act too through communication. I wish we had more examples of healthy sex interactions. I'm glad at the relationship pairings, while rushed, they felt right for each of the characters at this part of their character arcs but still also had something to intrigue ("hmmm" is something going on with Francesca, I wonder if she's bi like Benedict). I like the siblings relationships, Pens sister first getting jealous but then following their mum in being better sisters, and that softening to the sisters also softened them to their husbands, who've seemed more like comedic relief than part of the family. Loved Pen giving the mum the credit for money for sisters party (I wished we could've looked more into the "once you're off the marriage mart and a mother you're not part of society again til your kids are in the marriage mart" aspect, it's like worth looking into). I love that it was Pen who had a son first, felt predictable but so right. The only bit that really upset me and felt so wrong was the Cressida story. She's not the objectively worst character on the show, she's a bitch but they took pains to show us it's both a defensive mechanism and a product of her upbringing and familial abuse. I hope she gets a happy ending, she was wrong to do what she did but she doesn't deserve the fate sentenced to her in the show.
I was wondering why she didnt marry Lord Debbling. He still was searching for a Woman after Pen was Out of the Game and they both seemed to have liked eachother.
This video was absolutely stunning ❤ You described the issues between parents and their children so incredibly well. My parents are Boomers and I still don't think they understand that their kids are separate people with separate experiences, feelings, trauma, etc. I've had to let go of them understanding me, love myself & love them where they're at. ✨ Liked & Subscribed! ✨
"We did the best we could with what society has afforded us…okay maybe there were other ways but at the time I couldn’t see them." Imo was the best quote bc it shows that she realize her daughter Pen is smarter and more talented than her other daughters but bc of how she was raise she cannot fathom a woman who don’t need to rely on a man for security and power. That’s how she was told the world works and had probably never seen anyone do it differently.
You are wise, my dear, far beyond your years! You’re cutie-pie too. Thank you for such an insightful study of this mother-daughter relationship. I felt like I healed a part of my relationship with my mother watching Season 3 p2, and now with your video. Sincerely, your newest fan.
Honestly I think more of her development will come with Lord Anderson perhaps in a future season, though I understand what you mean, I feel endeared to Portia as well.
I don’t want to admit it, but I cried a little in part 2 … twice. I cried when Portia and Penelope had their heart to heart talk after the solicitor thing. It was the true breakthrough mother-daughter moment those two needed. The second time was when Violet and Francesca had their talk before Francesca’s wedding, how there are different kinds of love. It’s refreshing and it makes a child feel seen when their parents admit they learned something from their child. It makes me look back at my relationship with my mom and my kids and how I changed things for them.
OMG, finally found a video where Portia is not defended nor ostracized! Weird take, maybe, but I wish we had more light shed on Portia’s story, what was her background, e.g., how did she marry her late husband (because imho you can feel her bittersweet feelings when she’s telling Penelope that a love match does not guarantee safety, I sense some story behind that but I might be wrong) She’s the mother running her family with no financial or emotional support from any man and it makes her a real one, plus, she learns from her mistakes. I hope we can see more of her and the Featherington family in the S4! Thanks for the video 🫶 Also, sorry for my curiosity, what’s the song in the end, please? Couldn’t find it in the description, sorry 😅
In the show, Portia's insecurities come from her husband's murder & robbery (season 1). They were left destitute. She married the baron Featherington for security & he was a bad at business, and she learned to work the system from behind the scenes.
What I like most is how Portia does everything she does out of a desire to protect and promote her girls, when their dad and men around them have failed them. Anything questionable she does, she does it for them. Even towards Marina, she has her own standards of what she is trying to do for her, but in her mind, she is actually helping. So, to see Pen and her sisters come together and then to see Pen actually save her mother and sisters and restore their reputation as a family… ah that is so satisfying ❤
I think it would have taken Pen getting married to get out from under Portia and a change in the balance of power for Portia to recognize her daughter. Some Moms are like that despite the culture/times.
Can I offer an alternative view of early Portia and Penelope? We know that Portia isn't affectionate and she's blunt. But, I thought her always putting Penelope in yellow was her way of making Penelope more noticeable. I also believe that because Pen doesn't have the same conventional beauty as her sister's, Portia was working extra hard to secure an advantageous match for Prudence and Phillipa. Naturally Pen feels less valued but I don't think that was Portia's intention. Portia knows her daughter's, she tells us at the end of season 2 when she dismissed the new lord Featherington. Her main goal was always to see her daughter's taken care of, including Penny. Edit: can I also say that Penelope wasn't trying to be noticed in the 1st two season by anyone e but Colin. So maybe Portia assumed the Penelope had no honest interest in marriage. And that was okay if Prudence and Phillipa married titled or wealthy men that could care for them.
I love everything about this! It’s like I was finally able to discuss it with someone! I’m really curious on your take about the sisters, cause I genuinely appreciate the flow of Portia’s arc but I’m not sure her sisters, specifically Prudence were as natural
It felt like Portia just wanted to make sure enough of her daughters were married so that the whole family could be financially taken care of and when Penelope was left unmarried she wasn’t super upset and seemed happy to have a daughter keep her company
An important correction. Jane Austin was not a writer at that time. She did not publish Sense and Sensibility under her name it was credited to "A Lady" and subsequent books were attributed to the "author of Sense and Sensibility". Jane Austin did not earn a living from her books.
I agree that Portia & Penelope are similar. Penelope honed her sharp wit, replying to her mother in her head because to say it out loud would be disrespectful.
❤ wonderful insights I really enjoyed your analysis. i agree with many points about Penelopes and Portia's mother- daughter relationship. I really love you voice ❤ i would love to hear book read by you.
I have a mother like Portia and I would NEVER trust her if she changed like that. That level of narcissism doesn’t just change overnight. Only in tv do characters change like that.
I understood Portia. I think she is a product of her circumstances (you touched on it here). I don’t think she actually bullied Pen or treated her badly. Yes she neglected her (but I think she focused her attention on who she believed needed it the time). She wasn’t warm but she wasn’t actively bad. She gives her opinion on what she thinks Pen’s romantic choices should be for Pen’s own security. She chooses unsuitable colors for Pen only because she believes they are beautiful not because she is trying to sabotage Pen. We like Pen so we hate that Portia said this but Portia saying marriage isn’t for everyone isn’t to put Pen down. It is her being what she believes to be realistic as Pen was in her 3rd or 4th yr on the marriage mart with no prospects. She was trying to encourage her in the way she knew how. In honesty, we don’t credit Portia enough for how entitled, sheltered and privileged Pen and sisters got to be from financial and societal shame. Their mother took it all and protected them. When Pen switches her wardrobe, she says that if it’s her choice, she can do that. Her kids are allowed to marry non titled men despite how hard the financial situation is. When she believes Pen made a smart choice going for Lord Debling, she praises her. Telling her not to get greedy isn’t putting her down, it’s her way of counselling her daughter to make a choice she won’t regret, for her own daughter’s benefit. Chastising her about Colin is because Marina had tried to con Colin into a marriage, Jack had tried to con Colin out of money and if Pen was conning Colin, that would be too much for the family reputation including Penelope’s. How she goes about it isn’t great but Portia is looking out for Penelope. Her intent is caring, her delivery isn’t. I appreciated seeing the full circle moment where her intent is explained. Prudence on the other hand is a jerk to Pen. 🙄
I did not think Jack Featherington got to steal Colin’s money. I got the impression that Colin uncovered Jack’s scheme before he gave up his money. Remember Colin’s standoff with Jack and subsequently exposing him in front of Portia and Penelope? Am I wrong?
On the subject of Jane Austen's boldness, keep in mind that she had to publish her books anonymously. Sure, she was certainly bold, but even the most successful female author of the time wasn't able to publish under her own name because of her gender.
Porta is a narcissist and I don't use the term for every selfish person. She's manipulative, she's got a victim complex, she keeps her daughters' confidence down to build herself up, she usually takes no accountability. There was no real improvement to their relationship, Penelope's status changed and Portia wanted to be part of her good fortune. And she played on Penelope's feelings to get what she wanted. The sisters reacted confused because the scapegoat of the family was suddenly treated well. This wasn't even particularly well executed in terms of writing but it's a good example of why narcissists are successful and how everyone in their families suffer.
I would agree with this statement more for books then show Portia. Portia is a more complicated and gray character in the show than in books. Book Portia is more of a narcissistic neglectful parent
@@ViktorijaSarac I haven't read the books but I'll take your word for it! My view is based on the show. I can feel pity for narcissists, they have this kind of personality disorder because of severe childhood trauma. But this is a show, no real people involved, so I can despise Portia in peace. That said, I absolutely love Polly Walker, she's such an amazing actor.
@@alexblainelayter7703 Go ahead hate her till your heart is content.❤️ I too have characters to whom I can't forgive or see them in better light. But I am usually 99% empathetic to characters and I usually see them as sheds of gray 🩶. I have a distant family member who are narcissistic and manipulative who abuse me. Maybe 🤔 I don't see it because of my trauma. I wish you a plasent day❤️❤️❤️
@@alexblainelayter7703 I love Polly Walker. Go ahead hate the character but in healthy doses I hope you are not stressed about character. I may don't see it because of my trauma I have narcissistic and manipulative cousin who abuse me so much. I get panicked attacks only remembering them. I tend to be emptied to characters and to see them as sheds of gray 🩶 . I wish you a good day ❤❤❤
I have loved the character of Porsha right from the beginning. Her character is deep, calculative, sensitive, and above all, a mother playing both the roles of father and mother. She has always looked out for her girls, including Pen. During the Regency era, it was uncommon for women to read or write, and in the very first episode of the series, we see Porsha telling Pen not to read books because it might give her ideas. This shows Porsha looking out for Pen. Throughout the series, Porsha strives to improve her family's circumstances and accepts the unfortunate fate of her youngest daughter, who is not seen as a right fit in society. This is evident when Porsha admits to Pen that she allowed her to disappear during the ball, thinking that Pen does not like being a part of such events. This reflects Porsha's attempt to understand her youngest daughter. However, as soon as Porsha realizes Pen's true potential and recognizes her capabilities and value, we see a softer side of Porsha. Porsha begins to see the similarities between them, and we see a verbal and emotional connection developing between them. This happens to most of us.
![Portia Featherington is a Girl's Girl: Here is Why [CC]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/zoBIl8-I3o0/mqdefault.jpg)
Portia is the only one who found out about Pen and said OUT LOUD that Pen even wrote scathing things about herself.... everyone else just skipped that!
And she looks distressed that she actually said those things about her self.
To be honest Eloise came to her and said she was too harsh on herself, even when she was still mad at Pen.
colin calling portia out for caring about social standards is lovely, but also incredibly shortsighted and privileged and clueless. colin is the third son of the richest family around, even with losing tjeir father, they never had to worry about anyone’s future and they never will.
the featheringtons are at the bottom of the totem pole, even when lord featherington was alive, portia had to constantly worry about her daughters future.
colin being all high and mighty about social standing is just like portia with her daughters: good intentions, ridiculously misguided approach
I kind of wanted to see Portia rip Colin a new one. It was her house he stormed into, and all of her points were valid, even though they were articulated horribly.
I don't blame him. He was just trying to stand up for his wife. And he isn't wrong, she was way too controlling and emotionally abusive
I am clapping 👏 out loud!
The other though I have is: one thing is Pen talking sh*t about her family and another thing is Colin. I live often this issue with my husband. My mum has been quite abusive but after growing up I know that she has her traumas and ignorance (on mental health and parenting). It is even true that I "couldn't" free myself until I got married but my husband has no business to talk sh*t even if with good intentions. Portia and Penelope bond got fixed after that scene and I hope in future she will stand for her mother reputation (because the look the Bton gave to Portia in the church had me fuming).
@@CW-rx2jsTHANK YOU! Portia was criticizing Penelope harshly and saying she “entrapped Colin with [her] wiles.” That is a disgusting thing to say about anyone, let alone YOUR OWN CHILD. I’m shocked at how Portia defenders ignore this (and her history of putting Penelope down in this way…and implicitly encouraging Penelope’s sisters to do the same)
The Featheringtons are literally part of the ton and aristocracy. They are not at the bottom of the totem pole. They aren’t paupers from a Charles Dickens’s novel.
A weird take, maybe, but Portia is actually my favourite character. She's no angel and for sure is flawed but who isn't? And she TRIES to be better. She recognizes her wrongdoings and tries really hard to be better. She should have done that earlier, before her daughter got marreid but to be honest there is so many parents that never do acknowledge their mistakes, so beter late then never. And also, in her crooked way, all she's done, she's done for her family. She's trying to change the way she shows love and that's really admirable.
She's my favourite too❤
I like how she is sheds of gray 🩶
I love this video about her character
ruclips.net/video/zoBIl8-I3o0/видео.htmlsi=UtHLeHD5U92QO3J6
Yes I love Portia. 💕They can never make me hate her.
No honestly I actually love Portia so much she's always trying to play chess with all the pieces she knows and ngl for what happened she's been successful. Even when she was focusing more on Penelope this season and her other daughters wanted to host a ball - she was happy to see them all having a good time.
@@ennenoire i agree 💯
I can't say it's weird. She's a fully realized character. Almost scary how real she comes off.
I do feel like Portia's change felt natural and sincere, not to mention the costume designers putting Penelope in Portia's style of gown, it was no surprise to me that things were going to work out between them.
Yes it was a natural change that she needed tbh after Colin told her enough picking on my wife and everything and she turned her self around and pen could tell her her secret and felt like she could do anything
Yeah like in her own way haha it was very Portia. It was Portia TRYING
My favorite part of the season was Featherington's storyline. I loved that her family (the Featheringtons) helped and supported her when she revealed herself as Lady Whistledown. When people started murmuring her sister used the butterflies as a distraction and her brother-in-law started clapping. The Bridgerton's really didn't do much to support her.
I agree with this wholeheartedly! The familial growth of the Featheringtons SHINED this season ❤
So true! The way they all came to support one another, not just pen. I loved the scene with the butterflies especially when Prudence calls Philippa a genius, because ist such a contrast to how she usually belittles her intelligence, calling her a dunderhead and such. The way all the insults between the Featheringtons got turned around was lovely to see!
I disagree per se, to that point of Pens life knowing them the Bridgertons are her support, welcoming her into the home, friendship with Eloise - they made her life more tenable with the family drama she's had. At the ball they're waiting to see how the Ton reacts to the revelation, they would've strategized and did what's necessary for Pen like they did the botched wedding the season prior. By that event she is a Bridgerton with 3 other respectably married titled in laws. One good European tour with her husband, coming back pregnant, the Ton will have moved on. They did lessen Colin's book influence in favor of this story arc for the relationship of mother and daughter.
I'll have to rewatch, I thought the program called for "bugs" to release after the queen or whomever addressed the assembly or last dance, but thinking how they weren't expecting the Queen maybe Phillipa was trying to redirect the ire of some of those negatively affected by whistledown. But I did notice Finch getting the applause in gear if not to support his wife's favored contribution to the ball, also show his support Pen.
I don't care about Bridgerton, but if the show was called Featherington? I'd watch the hell out of it. Portia's and Penelope's relationship especially fits the complicated mother-daughter storylines I find so fascinating.
I love the scene where they are playing Charades and Portia is getting answers right too, shows her and Penelope are both clever in ways many others aren’t.
When Portia found out about Lady Whistledown’s identity I was eager for her and Penelope to start scheming together how to bring down Cressida, Portia is so good with schemes and plans 😅 instead Colin went ahead and made things worse and then Penelope had to sort everything herself 😂
Me too! I was looking forward to Portia flipping things around with Cressida in a 'dubious' way. Portia strikes me as someone who had to do things for herself in an unfair society as that.... childhood, marriage and parenting. Portia is actually 1 out of my 3 favourite characters.
The only thing I don't like is how Penelope stans woobify and infantilize her. Glossing over everything she has done but blaming other characters for slightest of misdeeds
I always got the feeling that Portia had a difficult life just watching her marriage and that she was desperate to get her daughters out of society, so now realizing how Penelope broke the mold and made something for herself was so sweet. some mothers do not know how to communicate so it was nice to see her soport her during this time, great character develoment, hope we can see her more in the next season
I agree. I wouldn’t be surprised if Portia was the black sheep of her family before marriage.
The thing is, it’s harsh to judge Portia by modern parenting standards. In the regency era, Portia would be acting how a mother would be expected to act regarding her daughters. While the show loves to emphasise the importance of love matches, in reality they were quite rare especially among the elite where titles, wealth and land were considered far more valuable assets than the potential of love. Portia was doing well by her daughter to encourage her to marry Lord Debling who had all three of these things which would also ultimately protect Penelope as the Featheringtons risked being turned out of their own home. Lord Debling, despite his eccentries, was young, attractive and honourable which would have made him an ideal match for any young woman, especially in a time where women were often forced to marry men much more older than them, like with Cressida. Portia thought she was doing right by her daughter and in the time period, she was. This doesn’t mean Portia didn’t make any mistakes and that she didn’t emotionally hurt Penelope, because she did and this is something Portia learns and grows from.
So refreshing to hear a mature take on child-parent dynamics.
Portia is one of my favorite characters. She is VERY smart and knows how to play the system. A subtle player in the game and that makes her one of the best. Plus she LOVES her daughters very much and all of them are happily married, she gave them what she couldn’t have
It's unfair to judge mothers in this time period on modern standards. When in past it was looked down upon aristocrats who raised they children.
Sure, but this isn't historical fiction, this is historical fantasy. And I think rather than judging her by regency standards, we should judge her within the standards Bridgeton sets up, which align much more to modern sensibilities than anything even slightly regency based.
@@TheEmmaHouli I could same what I agree with you statement.
There is no good example of modern standards in mothers in Bridgertons.
Even Violet is not perfect.
She wasn't there for Antony when her husband/his father died. She didn't properly explain Dafni Frist night. She doesn't listen to Eloise and Francesca...
Don't get me wrong I love Violet and she is a good mother in the show but she is far from perfect.
@@TheEmmaHouli I know Bridgertons is not historically accurate. There are times when they are and when they are not.
But I think that we have to have a little bit of historical context to understand characters because the author chose this time period for a reason to tell the story.
I love to separate historical (accurate) / documentary and historically inspired.
I wish you a good day ❤️❤️❤️
@@TheEmmaHouli
I think I see your point but two notable issues w/ that argument. First is the point about genre. Bridgerton is first and foremost historical fiction, period. Specifically it's a regency era England historical romance and as is the original book series. It's in no way a historical fantasy. Historical fantasy mixes conventional fantasy genre elements with historical settings while historical romance is romance tropes but in a specific period in the past. The show doesn't need to be historically accurate. Of course we're all viewing the show through a modern lens because we're living in modern times so that's all we have but if we're being fair, we still have to factor in the sensibilities of the time period in which the story is set when evaluating characters.
Second, we're three seasons in and how many do we know that truly raised their own children besides Mama Bridergton? The Mondrichs don't count, as they joined the ton overnight from a working class background.
The Bridgerton family gets the exception because they're literally point of the show, we're supposed to always root for and empathize with them so they're going more aligned with modern. Portia from the start has been at least believable in her perspective and most of her actions. OJudging mothers in a regency era story by social standards from 100+ later doesn't make sense, fiction or not.
Lastly, I wasn't trying to be mean or talk down to you in any way. It was intended add to polite discussion rather than being rude. I hope that came across, and that you're well.
@@scarletc.gilliam9575 that was wonderfully put. Thanks for your opinion. I am not an expert at explaining genres.
I agree with your point of view.
You put a great argument about why I think we should give more grace to characters.
And honestly poor people didn't have time to raise their children while the rich would live rising of their children to their servants and teachers and would "parent" their children when they are older how to full file their role someday.
❤️
I don't think people are talking enough about their scenes and relationship this season. I was absolutely enthralled by the two of them and the growth of their relationship this season
my turning point with Portia was at the end of season 2 when she stood up to cousin jack and sent him packing. I would love to see her get the Queen Charlotte treatment, maybe as the B plot if there is a sequel to that.
I really did like how it developed honestly . Portia and Pen found they have lot in common, and Portia was proud of Pen for right reasons this time ❤
The moment when Portia held Penelope’s hand when the queen came was a small moment that touched me. It felt like she was in a tiny way supporting and backing her daughter, and I loved it. 😭💗I didn’t expect this, but the featheringtons, all of them, were one of the best parts of the season for me.
Portia was the only character this season that got the correct amount of screentime, i would have even been happy with more. Mainly because she is actually important to the main couple, who did not even get a feaction of the screentime they needed. The writers did everybody else dirty.
I love how when it comes out that she's LW, Portia says that she *knew* Penelope disappeared at every ball. I always figured she didn't notice that her daughter left because she didn't care to notice.
But she did notice. She noticed and she never gave her shit for it because she knew that Pen only has so much social stamina and thought that she went home due to burn out
Also, I think Prudence deserves props as well. She was such a bitch for so long. Once her pregnancy (which her mom pressured on her) started to get overshadowed by Penelope's engagement, I thought she was going to do something crazy. But no. She clapped so sweetly at the wedding and looked very emotional. She gave Penelope a genuine compliment, probably the forst in her life. And her face during Pen's speech...she really *saw* her sister for the first time. I only wish we got to see the conversation between them after
It was interesting to see the family dynamics develop of the featheringtons vs the cowpers too. I hoped that Cressida would find a way out but the fact that she couldn’t was also brilliant and sort of sad.
Honestly, Penelope is Portias daughter. Portia is smart and Penelope is smart too. They are so similar in many ways.
Portia is the best character imo. She’s the most complex and I would argue the best mother on the show.
She really is my favorite character
She is a really great character
I think she’s a great woman but I would still argue that Violet is the best mother. Tho a lot of that comes with the fact that they’re very secure financially so she’s actually able to focus on her children’s lives. Portia tho is amazing for being able to provide that sense of security for her children. Portia is the best dad LMAO.
I've always enjoyed Portia as a character. She's far from perfect but I think that's what makes her and the rest of the Featheringtons so interesting and fun to watch. I really was not expecting this arc for her in pt 2 and really loved it.
I think Portia just chose to be frank to the one who was supposed to be the “clever” one. So tough love on her Pen, I was kinda thinking a lot like the featheringtons are the bennetts of this show.
Totally, I think Portia is a lot like Elizabeth's mom, but is interesting to see a woman to defend their girls with marriages because that was security for women. A contrasting with Violet idea of romance because Bridgertons have the privilege to choose who they want to marry. Not once, not twice but we see this issue three times, Daphne not choosing to marry the prince (not common for this time to deny a marriage like that but ok) Anthony choosing Kate over Edwina After they were going to marry (that big issue evaporates when Kanthony marry, and Colin wanting to marry the cousin and then kind of stealing the bride of Lord Devlin
I know this is a fantasy Victorian style but even the restrictive rules for marriages are all over the place 😑
they don't have chaperone
Thank you so much for acknowledging that the most these kind of parent's do is say "I was trying to protect you" without ever explaining how on earth the actions that harmed their children were meant to protect them, and just assuming that we would, or indeed SHOULD, understand automatically. Too many people, both perpetrators and outsiders to the situation, downplay or just plain don't see the amount of damage this causes to both the child and the relationship as a whole.
In the books Penelope found the family she needed in the Bridgertons. In the series not only became one of them but also healed with hers as well. She´s now a Bridgerton but would always be a Featherington.
Polly has being doing an amazing job as Portia since season one and I think that´s the reason I´ve never hated her completely, I loved she walked with Penelope in the wedding cause I really thought she´d do it alone. It was really a nice surprise the development the Featheringtons had in this season, no doubt it was one of my most favorite things of it
While watching this season, I was so satisfied with this storyline to develop this growth and make Portia’s character more clear to the audience that she is very much Violet’s FOIL. They are both mothers who will fight for their children tooth and nail. The only difference is their upbringing which has shaped their experiences and their families. I’m not at all surprised by her backstory, it shows up clearly in her values and repeating everything they’ve learned from her childhood. These lives are very real for people even in this time period. I often think of Portia and Georgia from Ginny & Georgia. She’s protecting her kids from what she knows can happen in life and is so rigid in those beliefs. Honestly Portia is one of my favorite’s from a literary perspective. This was done beautifully.
As i was watching I even said to myself this may just be the best love story for me in the season. Between a mother and daughter.
I also loved this evolution in part 2 between the 2 of them. Polly Walker is such a great actress and it was subtle and beautiful acted. I also really like the fact that they showed Portia guessing a charade in episode 5, proving that Pen and her are actually more alike than they would like to think and also that Portia is smart. We knew it (the audience) of course but she hides it behind social tropes and facades. I thought it was clever
Portia and Pen accusing each other for tricking the Ton was great writing. Mom n daughter both realizing they are same sheep in different wool . Also despite being angry at Pen , Portia was the only one who acknowledged power of Whistledown.
The idiot brother n sister Bridgetons just tried to downgrade her work or use it to save Brudgeton name.
I would love to see more of Portias backstory.
I believe she was wall mining.
She wasnt perfect parent but she was doing what she could and knows.
I think the Penelope is most like her mother of all Portias dathers. And maybe 🤔 they personalitys clash because of that.
I would also want to see her story. Some part of me really thinks that she's a better mother than Violet. She always puts her children first though sometimes it's too much especially for Pen. Violet always reminds her children that it's important for them to find love while Portia opens her daughters' eyes that it's not always about that especially in that period.
@@kathrinamanuel6174 She wasn't there for Antony when her husband/his father died. She didn't properly explain Dafni Frist night. She doesn't listen to Eloise and Francesca...
I love Violet but she is far away from perfect.
I always think of Portia as the most reasonable mother in the show.
She knows her daughters are not the most beautiful and smart. She's not in denial like the same of other moms. She never pushed them beyond their capabilities.
The only thing she wanted is to marry their daughters to a respectable stable man.
I really felt when she said stability is romantic.
❤️
@@kathrinamanuel6174 yes! I thought I was the only one who felt this way. I feel like Violet did not do her kids justice. All she tells him is to look for this fairytale, magical love and not even explain in detail of real marital relations and married life.
@@ViktorijaSarac exactly! Violet was not there. She checked out and left Anthony with the burden. Which I know he is head of household after the passing of their father. However, she could’ve done better.
i think theyll do it if they do a season spin off with violet and edmund showing the stark contrast in their marriages.
When Portia said, "What dreams? Ladies don't have dreams. They have husbands." I was really able to feel like she was talking about herself. You could feel the helplessness and despair in her words. It actually made me tear up.
The actress playing Portia (Polly Walker) also played Attia in the HBO series Rome, and its a very similar character/arc. Whoever thought to cast Polly as Coughlan’s mother was a damn genius.
I also watched Polly in Prisioners wives. I said they picked the right woman
Here in 2024, there are still plenty of families where the youngest daughter, the last unmarried daughter, etc. is expected to take care of her mother in old age. Even in families where all of the children are “allowed” to go off and start their own families, the majority of elder care falls on adult daughters. Statistically, it’s far more “acceptable” for male children to chip in on expenses while female children are expected to devote time and personal care, move closer for accessibility or have aging parents move in with them.
“Bridgerton” is happily ever after, but I’m very curious to see if Portia’s future gets addressed in this way. Even if (no spoilers) the law still holds that her first male grandchild will secure her husband’s title, I.e. prevent her family from losing the home like the Austen women, will she still be rattling around alone now that all of her daughters have moved out?
I think it was really well done. This is not a perfect relationship, by no means...
But it felt real.
The part where Portia said she wished better luck for her girls than what she had..
Whoa, that hit home.
Portia appears more damaged than malicious. She's had to scratch and fight at one point and it's hardened her. I would love to see see more on her backstory.
Portia's speech about trying to protect her girls was the only moment of honest emotion I felt during this season.
i liked the way that pen and her mother now are in a better situation, but i hoped to see more with her sisters, specially with prudence.
by the way i hope to see more on the next seasons about polin and how pen lives with everyone knowing that she is lw. i mean, yeah, the words she said at her family ball's was good but... she actually offended a lot of people, so i really wanna see something about it, like aproching or something. and also, she will gossip like she used to? everyone knows who she is, so that can be problem... im really excited for the next season
I like this a lot!! Thank you!!
I’ve been focusing a lot on other characters I’m happy about, because I was so disappointed Polin didn’t get enough growth or screen time…
But you are so damn right- I am so happy for Penelope’s growth and story with her FAMILIAL relationships. So that’s how I can be excited/satisfied with her season. 🙏
I’m not ashamed to say that, as a diehard romantic, I was in actual tears when Colin swooped in and served Portia some well deserved tea 😆
It was my favorite throughout the whole season! ❤ As a book reader I have a lot of issues with Part 2 BUT the progression between mother & daughter overshadowed my problems with the season.
As someone who had a doting but self-conscious mom, I can understand the tough love or frank approach of Portia. The truth is NO ONE is perfect! What you can’t deny about her is she CHOSE HER DAUGHTERS. It may not be perfectly executed but you can see since season 1 how she wants her daughters to at least have a better life than she had. I believe she succeeded COMPLETELY as all her daughters actually found HUSBANDS that ADORE them! It’s an amazing feat really. I cried over watching those vulnerable scenes of Portia and it made me MISS MY MOM SO MUCH 😢
@art4anj 💯 Portia even did her best to do good for Marina and in the end reminded her she would be ok. “ you are stronger than me, she told Marina….
@@mariadarmie9954 so true! 🥹
This was a great analisys to come out so quickly after the show. well done.
The healing, understanding and growth that went on between them brought me to tears. And they actually are a lot a like. Portia didn’t have a happy or easy life and she loved and looked out for her girls above all even if it wasn’t in a warm and fuzzy way. I adore Colin. However, Colin has a very privileged perspective on “standing” as a man, and as a child from a super rich secure family , which is why his talk w/ Cressida also didn’t work. Their talks and intelligence between mother and daughter, were so brief but deep.
I was quite upset about how things ended for Cressida and why they did her so much screen time and redemption arc (so much that I cared for her even after the blackmailing) but in the end when Pen saved the situation (orchesting the revelation with the queen, and paying for her sisters ball) she didn't save Cressida. But Probably her story mirrored Portia's story in some way. It is just a shame that after the background Cres has (I watched too much criminal minds to not see the reasons behind the behavior) and after MANY good things Cres does:
1) does not reveal colin & pen
2) confronts Eloise that believe to be a better person than she actually is
3) when dancing with Debling after insinuating the Eros&Psyke thing she rettifies (she could have enfored the idea to keep Debling for her)
4) she asked repeatedly help to Eloise for her situation but Eloise was too taken by Colin & Pen to listen.
5) she was abbandoned and had no other choise if not blackmail
6) she faces colin telling him that he is JELOUS of LW...
And even when El and Pen are talking on the couch about Cres they didn't take the time to say that yes El chose Cres because she was petty but after knowing her Cres IS NOT a heartless villain.
Not even that!
It was sad that Eloise didn't say something like "let's give her the money so she shuts up AND so she doesn't have to marry an old man"
@@carlalussini you shouldn't have to give anyone money to shut up from harassing & blackmailing your family & friends just because they have been through hard times at home.
@@Ballerinaa Im not saying you should be obliged to it, I'm saying one can choose to be compassionate and use privilege/money to help those in need, specially knowing that when the tables where turned, they where there for you. So, she's not "wrong" for not even thinking what would be the best outcome for everyone including Cressida, but it would have been nice of her.
I hope Cressida comes back in season 4
@carlalussini yes exactly. Blackmailing is wrong. But even gossiping to the point of ruing lives or taking money from the ton with a scam (or try to marry a guy while pregnant of another one). They are ALL bad action. But we got to learn that there are reasons behind. The women of those times had to survive. And it is so OOC from El when:
1) tells Cres that if shouting could help she would do it... but infact doesn't do ANYTHING! Even writing bad about that old man could be a solution (like they did with Nigel Berbrook)
2) When she tells Pen that now that she is a Bton she needs to give up to LW for Colin (WHERE IS FEMINIST EL???)
And now that she knows Cres reasons doesn't not even try. To be honest I get that they have to get to the drama for the sake of the story bit when Colin, El, Portia and Pen are all in the same room and SUDDENLY everyone just listen to Colin... is do OOC for El. She could be sided Pen about paying Cres and Colin would do anyway as he liked and ruin things. And Elis so mean badmouthing Cres when speaking with Pen on the sofa. They could just agree that Cres had her problems. I really wish they handled things differently about this.
I genuinely think this season was as good as other seasons - in fact, maybe better, but not necessarily in a romantic sense. While it is true we needed more Polin moments(there is talk of them having a pretty sizeable side role in Season 4), the sheer development of the characters as a whole was pretty insane. Portia and Penelope are some of my favorite characters, and it was lovely seeing this unexpected development. I truly think that, with another episode or with these, had they been a touch longer, we could`ve gotten the very best of Bridgerton universe. I still love this season a lot, but I am hoping they release cut Polin moments as there`s a pretty big petition going around. And if not, at least we`ll see them in Season 4.
The first half of the season didn't give me hope for the character arcs, but the second half surprised me pleasantly.
Starting with the communicative consentual sex scene tween Pen and Colin, is so beautiful to see an onscreen sex scene, especially one where the female is a virgin, show them communicating, shows the experienced partner taking time to allow for informed consent before and during, he clearly tried to ensure she was ready physically before he entered her and make her happy during the act too through communication. I wish we had more examples of healthy sex interactions.
I'm glad at the relationship pairings, while rushed, they felt right for each of the characters at this part of their character arcs but still also had something to intrigue ("hmmm" is something going on with Francesca, I wonder if she's bi like Benedict). I like the siblings relationships, Pens sister first getting jealous but then following their mum in being better sisters, and that softening to the sisters also softened them to their husbands, who've seemed more like comedic relief than part of the family. Loved Pen giving the mum the credit for money for sisters party (I wished we could've looked more into the "once you're off the marriage mart and a mother you're not part of society again til your kids are in the marriage mart" aspect, it's like worth looking into). I love that it was Pen who had a son first, felt predictable but so right.
The only bit that really upset me and felt so wrong was the Cressida story. She's not the objectively worst character on the show, she's a bitch but they took pains to show us it's both a defensive mechanism and a product of her upbringing and familial abuse. I hope she gets a happy ending, she was wrong to do what she did but she doesn't deserve the fate sentenced to her in the show.
I was wondering why she didnt marry Lord Debbling. He still was searching for a Woman after Pen was Out of the Game and they both seemed to have liked eachother.
This video was absolutely stunning ❤
You described the issues between parents and their children so incredibly well. My parents are Boomers and I still don't think they understand that their kids are separate people with separate experiences, feelings, trauma, etc. I've had to let go of them understanding me, love myself & love them where they're at.
✨ Liked & Subscribed! ✨
I love your analysis and perspective of the show
"We did the best we could with what society has afforded us…okay maybe there were other ways but at the time I couldn’t see them."
Imo was the best quote bc it shows that she realize her daughter Pen is smarter and more talented than her other daughters but bc of how she was raise she cannot fathom a woman who don’t need to rely on a man for security and power. That’s how she was told the world works and had probably never seen anyone do it differently.
You are wise, my dear, far beyond your years! You’re cutie-pie too. Thank you for such an insightful study of this mother-daughter relationship. I felt like I healed a part of my relationship with my mother watching Season 3 p2, and now with your video.
Sincerely, your newest fan.
Yes Portia and penelopes relationship is my favorite part of season 3
I though Portia’s switch was genuine because it was so PORTIA. It’s Portia TRYING.
lady Danbury and Portia are my favorite characters. Violet Bridgerton is lovely but she stays more or less the same person.
Honestly I think more of her development will come with Lord Anderson perhaps in a future season, though I understand what you mean, I feel endeared to Portia as well.
I don’t want to admit it, but I cried a little in part 2 … twice. I cried when Portia and Penelope had their heart to heart talk after the solicitor thing. It was the true breakthrough mother-daughter moment those two needed.
The second time was when Violet and Francesca had their talk before Francesca’s wedding, how there are different kinds of love. It’s refreshing and it makes a child feel seen when their parents admit they learned something from their child.
It makes me look back at my relationship with my mom and my kids and how I changed things for them.
OMG, finally found a video where Portia is not defended nor ostracized!
Weird take, maybe, but I wish we had more light shed on Portia’s story, what was her background, e.g., how did she marry her late husband (because imho you can feel her bittersweet feelings when she’s telling Penelope that a love match does not guarantee safety, I sense some story behind that but I might be wrong)
She’s the mother running her family with no financial or emotional support from any man and it makes her a real one, plus, she learns from her mistakes. I hope we can see more of her and the Featherington family in the S4!
Thanks for the video 🫶
Also, sorry for my curiosity, what’s the song in the end, please? Couldn’t find it in the description, sorry 😅
In the show, Portia's insecurities come from her husband's murder & robbery (season 1). They were left destitute. She married the baron Featherington for security & he was a bad at business, and she learned to work the system from behind the scenes.
What I like most is how Portia does everything she does out of a desire to protect and promote her girls, when their dad and men around them have failed them. Anything questionable she does, she does it for them. Even towards Marina, she has her own standards of what she is trying to do for her, but in her mind, she is actually helping. So, to see Pen and her sisters come together and then to see Pen actually save her mother and sisters and restore their reputation as a family… ah that is so satisfying ❤
I think it would have taken Pen getting married to get out from under Portia and a change in the balance of power for Portia to recognize her daughter. Some Moms are like that despite the culture/times.
Can I offer an alternative view of early Portia and Penelope?
We know that Portia isn't affectionate and she's blunt. But, I thought her always putting Penelope in yellow was her way of making Penelope more noticeable. I also believe that because Pen doesn't have the same conventional beauty as her sister's, Portia was working extra hard to secure an advantageous match for Prudence and Phillipa. Naturally Pen feels less valued but I don't think that was Portia's intention.
Portia knows her daughter's, she tells us at the end of season 2 when she dismissed the new lord Featherington. Her main goal was always to see her daughter's taken care of, including Penny.
Edit: can I also say that Penelope wasn't trying to be noticed in the 1st two season by anyone e but Colin. So maybe Portia assumed the Penelope had no honest interest in marriage. And that was okay if Prudence and Phillipa married titled or wealthy men that could care for them.
i absolutely loved their interactiona together & reconciliation! this video essay waa nicely done too :)
I love everything about this! It’s like I was finally able to discuss it with someone! I’m really curious on your take about the sisters, cause I genuinely appreciate the flow of Portia’s arc but I’m not sure her sisters, specifically Prudence were as natural
It felt like Portia just wanted to make sure enough of her daughters were married so that the whole family could be financially taken care of and when Penelope was left unmarried she wasn’t super upset and seemed happy to have a daughter keep her company
I love this arc soo much
This wasn't a Polin season, this was a Pen and Portia season lol
My favorite arc this season
I thought Colin didn’t get scammed? He got smart about the fake mines
An important correction. Jane Austin was not a writer at that time. She did not publish Sense and Sensibility under her name it was credited to "A Lady" and subsequent books were attributed to the "author of Sense and Sensibility". Jane Austin did not earn a living from her books.
Sis! ADD 🙋🏾♀️ OVERR HERE!!Your presentation of this was IMPRESSIVE! Keep going! 💪🏾
I agree, eventhough portia has been mean to Penelope, she is trying to be better and I find it easier to see where she is coming from
I agree that Portia & Penelope are similar. Penelope honed her sharp wit, replying to her mother in her head because to say it out loud would be disrespectful.
❤ wonderful insights
I really enjoyed your analysis.
i agree with many points about Penelopes and Portia's mother- daughter relationship.
I really love you voice ❤ i would love to hear book read by you.
Thank you so much! 🥺💕
I have a mother like Portia and I would NEVER trust her if she changed like that. That level of narcissism doesn’t just change overnight. Only in tv do characters change like that.
I’m a fan of the actress she does a great job with this character
I love Portia, Danbury and the Queen 👑
My favorite parts of the show.
Yes! Penelope is a provider! I Love ❤️ it!!!
My favorite character, Portia knows how to use light and dark femininity.
I understood Portia. I think she is a product of her circumstances (you touched on it here). I don’t think she actually bullied Pen or treated her badly. Yes she neglected her (but I think she focused her attention on who she believed needed it the time). She wasn’t warm but she wasn’t actively bad. She gives her opinion on what she thinks Pen’s romantic choices should be for Pen’s own security. She chooses unsuitable colors for Pen only because she believes they are beautiful not because she is trying to sabotage Pen.
We like Pen so we hate that Portia said this but Portia saying marriage isn’t for everyone isn’t to put Pen down. It is her being what she believes to be realistic as Pen was in her 3rd or 4th yr on the marriage mart with no prospects. She was trying to encourage her in the way she knew how.
In honesty, we don’t credit Portia enough for how entitled, sheltered and privileged Pen and sisters got to be from financial and societal shame. Their mother took it all and protected them.
When Pen switches her wardrobe, she says that if it’s her choice, she can do that. Her kids are allowed to marry non titled men despite how hard the financial situation is. When she believes Pen made a smart choice going for Lord Debling, she praises her. Telling her not to get greedy isn’t putting her down, it’s her way of counselling her daughter to make a choice she won’t regret, for her own daughter’s benefit.
Chastising her about Colin is because Marina had tried to con Colin into a marriage, Jack had tried to con Colin out of money and if Pen was conning Colin, that would be too much for the family reputation including Penelope’s.
How she goes about it isn’t great but Portia is looking out for Penelope. Her intent is caring, her delivery isn’t. I appreciated seeing the full circle moment where her intent is explained.
Prudence on the other hand is a jerk to Pen. 🙄
I did not think Jack Featherington got to steal Colin’s money. I got the impression that Colin uncovered Jack’s scheme before he gave up his money. Remember Colin’s standoff with Jack and subsequently exposing him in front of Portia and Penelope? Am I wrong?
You look like a fairy!🧚
I love your voice babes❤
On the subject of Jane Austen's boldness, keep in mind that she had to publish her books anonymously. Sure, she was certainly bold, but even the most successful female author of the time wasn't able to publish under her own name because of her gender.
Portia wears the best clothes
What beautiful smart queen you are love.❤
I don't watch the show but they shouldn't have revealed Penelope as being Lady Whistledown.
What is the Name of the outro Song?
It’s my song Supernova!! I’ll be releasing it soon🥺❤️
Stop disrespecting the Goddess Polly Effing Walker!!
OK
Porta is a narcissist and I don't use the term for every selfish person. She's manipulative, she's got a victim complex, she keeps her daughters' confidence down to build herself up, she usually takes no accountability. There was no real improvement to their relationship, Penelope's status changed and Portia wanted to be part of her good fortune. And she played on Penelope's feelings to get what she wanted. The sisters reacted confused because the scapegoat of the family was suddenly treated well. This wasn't even particularly well executed in terms of writing but it's a good example of why narcissists are successful and how everyone in their families suffer.
I would agree with this statement more for books then show Portia.
Portia is a more complicated and gray character in the show than in books.
Book Portia is more of a narcissistic neglectful parent
@@ViktorijaSarac I haven't read the books but I'll take your word for it! My view is based on the show. I can feel pity for narcissists, they have this kind of personality disorder because of severe childhood trauma. But this is a show, no real people involved, so I can despise Portia in peace. That said, I absolutely love Polly Walker, she's such an amazing actor.
@@alexblainelayter7703 Go ahead hate her till your heart is content.❤️
I too have characters to whom I can't forgive or see them in better light.
But I am usually 99% empathetic to characters and I usually see them as sheds of gray 🩶.
I have a distant family member who are narcissistic and manipulative who abuse me.
Maybe 🤔 I don't see it because of my trauma.
I wish you a plasent day❤️❤️❤️
@@alexblainelayter7703 I love Polly Walker.
Go ahead hate the character but in healthy doses I hope you are not stressed about character.
I may don't see it because of my trauma I have narcissistic and manipulative cousin who abuse me so much. I get panicked attacks only remembering them.
I tend to be emptied to characters and to see them as sheds of gray 🩶 .
I wish you a good day ❤❤❤
I agree
The analysis of Portia turned into a finger pointing and judgy opinion of all parents. Sorry but this analysis is trite and juvenile.
Woke!😂
Slow
I have loved the character of Porsha right from the beginning. Her character is deep, calculative, sensitive, and above all, a mother playing both the roles of father and mother. She has always looked out for her girls, including Pen. During the Regency era, it was uncommon for women to read or write, and in the very first episode of the series, we see Porsha telling Pen not to read books because it might give her ideas. This shows Porsha looking out for Pen.
Throughout the series, Porsha strives to improve her family's circumstances and accepts the unfortunate fate of her youngest daughter, who is not seen as a right fit in society. This is evident when Porsha admits to Pen that she allowed her to disappear during the ball, thinking that Pen does not like being a part of such events. This reflects Porsha's attempt to understand her youngest daughter.
However, as soon as Porsha realizes Pen's true potential and recognizes her capabilities and value, we see a softer side of Porsha. Porsha begins to see the similarities between them, and we see a verbal and emotional connection developing between them. This happens to most of us.