‘Call the Midwife’ season 4, episode 5 review (PBS): Barbara and the ever-changing worldview

Obviously, we will begin this “Call the Midwife” review with a minor spoiler warning: Stop reading now if you want to avoid spoilers for this episode. We’re not disclosing anything too huge in here, though, so you may ultimately be all right regardless.

While we know that there was more of a downward spiral for Trixie in this episode (that is what alcohol plus a broken heart of your own doing will do to you), the story that will really stand out to many of you out there revolves around Barbara. She is a new character, but she is a likable person and a great vessel for a variety of different stories, depending on what the writers decide.

What we enjoyed about her tale tonight is that it mostly showed her more than ever before as a great outlet to show how Britain is changing and becoming more global in the early 1960s. She was able to establish a connection with a mother despite her not being able to speak English and really understand every part of the process. This further cements Barbara as one of the show’s figures of optimism. She is not an ideal inasmuch as she is far from perfect, but she takes pride in her work and she wants to make it known that she can help a variety of different mothers.

It is not often that “Call the Midwife” gets an opportunity to spread many positive messages, but this is one of them. However, it does come in the midst of an episode filled with predicaments for Trixie, Dr. Turner suffering a breakdown, and also one that shined a light on child cruelty. The world of Poplar is still very much far from perfect. (This review is a snapshot; click here to see our full review from the BBC airing.)

What did you think about this episode, and about the story for Barbara that played out? Share some of your quick thoughts and reactions to the story with a comment, and head over here to get some other news related to the show! Also, you can sign up now if you want to get some other updates on all we cover via our CarterMatt Newsletter.