Ep 2. Are You Now, Margaret?

In the season 8 episode 2 of M*A*S*H, titled "Are You Now, Margaret?", the focus is on Major Margaret Houlihan. The episode starts with Margaret receiving a letter from an old Army buddy who has named her as a communist during the congressional investigation of the community. With fear and guilt stricken on her, Margaret defends herself and displays her patriotism amid a series of distressing questioning and interrogations from Colonel Flagg and a private investigator.

Margaret's old-school values and military mindset runs counter to what some of the other staff members at the 4077th unit believe. As a result, the episode highlights the themes of individual privacy, cooperation, and tolerance. Besides, this episode also sheds light on the concept of loyalty. Margaret's patriotism and service to the country come to the fore, and she fights against the accusations of being a communist and even pardons her friend who names her.

Throughout the episode, tensions gradually rise as the characters battle over their own personal beliefs and also their fears of losing their job because of the accusations flying around. The conflict between the characters is evident, and it's clear that nobody is sure of what is going to happen next. The audience gets to see into the lives of the characters and their thought processes, providing deeper characterization of some of the key players like Major Houlihan. By shedding light on the characters' personal lives and beliefs, the show offers a glimpse into the complexities of being a member of the military serving during the Korean War.

The episode also offers comedic moments as several of the staffs tries to help Margaret, but ultimately their good intentions lead to a more chaotic situation. Despite the drama and distressing moments, the comedic moments bring some balance to the plot, bringing some slight relief to the viewers. The clever writing and sharp comedic timing make this episode a well-rounded and thought-provoking story from the MASH series, leaving the viewers with a lot to ponder.

The conclusion of the episode does not disappoint, as the investigation wraps up, leaving everyone involved with both a sense of relief and anxiety. The situation's resolution comes in the form of forgiveness and understanding between the characters, highlighting the importance of a preserving relationship even in tough times. Individuals' mistakes can cause major repercussions, and it's best to learn from them when they happen rather than trying to cover up them. Are You Now, Margaret? explores these themes excellently.

Overall, the M*A*S*H season 8, episode 2 "Are You Now, Margaret?" delivers an emotional and thought-provoking story. The episode is well-crafted, skillfully weaving character development and humor into a gripping tale that will leave a lasting impact on viewers. With a perfect balance of drama and comedy, the show explores the theme of loyalty, patriotism, and the importance of preserving relationships even in the most difficult situations. If you're a fan of the MASH series, this episode is definitely worth watching.