Ep 18. A HOUSE DIVIDED, PART 1 (aka Between Friends, Pt. 1)

Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman is a period drama television series that chronicles the life of Dr. Michaela Quinn, a female physician who has moved to Colorado Springs in the 1860s to practice medicine in a small, western town. The show explores the challenges she faces as a woman in a male-dominated profession, as well as the social and political issues of the time, such as racism, sexism, and Native American relations.

Season 5 Episode 18 titled "A House Divided, Part 1" (also known as "Between Friends, Pt. 1") is one of the most emotionally charged episodes of the series. It begins with Dr. Quinn (played by Jane Seymour) receiving a letter from her mother, Elizabeth (played by Joanna Going), informing her that she is coming to visit with some unexpected news. The letter also mentions that Dr. Quinn's childhood friend, Abigail (played by Betty Buckley), is also coming to town for a visit.

Dr. Quinn is excited to see her mother and friend but is unaware of the turmoil that awaits her. When Elizabeth and Abigail arrive, they reveal that Elizabeth is planning to divorce Dr. Quinn's father, Josef (played by Leonard Lightfoot), and that Abigail is also struggling with marital problems. Dr. Quinn is shocked to hear this news and is torn between her loyalty to her family and her sense of duty as a physician and friend.

As the episode progresses, tensions rise between Elizabeth and Josef, who is resistant to the divorce and refuses to sign the necessary papers. Meanwhile, Abigail confides in Dr. Quinn about her own marital issues, and Dr. Quinn finds herself struggling to balance the needs of her patients with the needs of her family and friends.

The episode also explores the larger social issues of the time, such as the challenges faced by single women and the stigma around divorce. Dr. Quinn is forced to confront her own biases and preconceptions as she navigates these complicated relationships.

Overall, "A House Divided, Part 1" is a powerful and emotional episode of Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman that explores the complex relationships between family, friends, and society. The performances by the cast are exceptional, particularly Jane Seymour, who brings depth and nuance to her portrayal of Dr. Quinn. The episode sets the stage for the dramatic conclusion in part two and is a must-watch for fans of the series.