Ep 3. One Equal Temper

Set in Alexandria, Virginia in the midst of the American Civil War, Mercy Street centers on the doctors, nurses, soldiers, and civilians caught up in the chaos and carnage of war.

Season two episode three, titled "One Equal Temper," follows the lives of the volunteers and staff of Mansion House Hospital, who continue to experience the consequences of the war. The episode explores the past of several characters while also showcasing the challenges they must face in their current roles at the hospital.

One of the key storylines of the episode centers on the character of Samuel Diggs, a former slave who gained his freedom by enlisting in the Union army. Now working as an assistant surgeon at Mansion House Hospital, Diggs is forced to confront his past when an old acquaintance arrives at the hospital seeking medical assistance. As a result, Diggs is faced with a difficult decision that tests his loyalties and his sense of justice.

Meanwhile, another vital character in the show, Mary Phinney, is struggling to maintain her position of power and authority within the hospital. As the head nurse, she has had to make tough decisions on patient care and faced criticism from the doctors and other staff. In this episode, her leadership is tested once again when a typhoid outbreak threatens the hospital. Mary must work with the other staff members to contain the outbreak and ensure that the hospital can continue to operate.

In addition to the personal struggles of the characters, "One Equal Temper" also examines the larger issues of the war, such as the treatment of former slaves and the tension between the Union and Confederate sympathizers in Virginia. The complex politics of the time are on full display in this episode, as the characters navigate their way through a time of uncertainty and upheaval.

As with previous episodes of Mercy Street, "One Equal Temper" showcases the exceptional writing, acting, and direction that has made the show a hit with audiences and critics alike. The series remains a powerful and engaging portrayal of a crucial moment in American history, reminding viewers of the challenges and triumphs that have shaped our nation.