Ep 2. Master Builder

Set in 12th century England, The Pillars of the Earth is an epic tale of love, war, and power struggles in a time of great upheaval. In season 1 episode 2, titled "Master Builder," we follow the continuing story of Prior Philip (Matthew Macfadyen) and the monks of Kingsbridge Priory as they try to rebuild their cathedral after a devastating fire.

As the episode begins, Prior Philip and his advisor, Tom Builder (Rufus Sewell), are in search of a master builder who will be able to take on the daunting task of leading the construction of the new cathedral. Their search leads them to a small village where they meet Jack Jackson (Eddie Redmayne), a young and talented apprentice who dreams of becoming a master builder himself one day. Despite his lack of experience, Prior Philip and Tom see great potential in Jack, and decide to take him on as their apprentice.

Meanwhile, a power struggle is brewing between two of the most prominent figures in England at the time: King Stephen (Tony Curran) and his cousin, Empress Maud (Alison Pill). Their long-standing rivalry has caused a great deal of unrest throughout the country, as various lords and nobles have taken sides and waged war against each other in the name of their respective leaders. In Kingsbridge, this conflict is personified by the ambitious and ruthless William Hamleigh (David Oakes), who is determined to gain power and wealth at any cost.

As the construction of the cathedral begins, tensions rise between the local townspeople and the monks of Kingsbridge. Many of the villagers are angry that the monks have taken control of so much land, and they resent the fact that they are being forced to work on the cathedral without pay. At the same time, William Hamleigh sees an opportunity to use the situation to his advantage, and he begins to scheme against Prior Philip and his partners.

The episode culminates in a dramatic confrontation between Jack, Tom, William, and Prior Philip, as they argue over the future of the cathedral and the role that each of them will play in its construction. As the conflict intensifies, secrets are revealed, alliances are tested, and the fate of Kingsbridge hangs in the balance.

Throughout "Master Builder," the production values of The Pillars of the Earth are once again on full display. The sets and costumes are incredibly detailed and immersive, transporting viewers back to the 12th century with remarkable authenticity. The cinematography and direction are also outstanding, capturing the beauty and brutality of medieval England in equal measure.

But what really makes The Pillars of the Earth stand out is its incredible cast of characters, who are brought to life by some of the most talented actors working today. Macfadyen, Sewell, Redmayne, and Oakes all give nuanced and dynamic performances, imbuing their characters with depth and complexity that make them feel like real people rather than mere archetypes.

Ultimately, "Master Builder" is a thrilling and engaging episode of The Pillars of the Earth that sets the stage for even greater conflicts and dramas to come. Whether you're a fan of historical dramas or just great storytelling in general, this show is definitely worth checking out.