‘Poldark’ season 2, episode 7 (PBS): Ross, Elizabeth, and that controversial scene

When we first reviewed tonight’s new episode of “Poldark” earlier this fall, it was an episode that absolutely generated a very strong reaction from us. How could it not, given the scene between Elizabeth and Ross? This is a scene that drew a wide array of reactions in the United Kingdom, and even in some ways received a great deal of press around the world following it airing.

Let’s try first and foremost to set up precisely what this scene was: A moment of passion between Aidan Turner and Heida Reed’s characters, or at least one that eventually became that. At first, Elizabeth protested some of Ross’ advances, but eventually she gives in and the two have what appears to be consensual sex. This is a change from the source material, and a scene there that many in the present find to be particularly unseemly. Even with this scene some of the criticism coming out of the UK was that it could potentially glamorize rape culture.

Prior to this episode, PBS put out warnings on their official website that there may be some who find the content within the episode offensive, so we do think that they did a good job preparing for whatever the reaction could be among many viewers. They’re not advocating any action on Ross’ part; they are merely airing what is a piece of art and a story that still needs to play out. Regardless of what you think about this scene, there is much more story to be told between these two characters, and consequences from this scene on all sides.

What we want to hear from you in the aftermath of tonight’s episode is rather simple: What did you think about this scene? Did you find it to be too much, or do you think that much of the talk around it has been exaggerated? If you are a book reader, are you unhappy with some of the changes that were made for this adaptation? Will it change your opinion of Ross in any way? We have a poll below for you to share some thoughts, and the comments are another resource for you.

For some other news related to “Poldark” right now, be sure to head over to the link here! (Photo: PBS.)