In the shadowy world of Tudor politics, where fortunes rise and fall with the king’s whim, Thomas Cromwell (Mark Rylance) continues his ascent in “Obedience,” the second episode of Wolf Hall’s second season. This installment finds Cromwell’s position as Henry VIII’s (Damian Lewis) advisor not just solidified but practically cemented, placing him squarely at the heart of the era’s tumultuous power dynamics.
With the Duke of Norfolk teetering on the precipice of disgrace, a golden opportunity arises for Cromwell to strike a decisive blow against a longtime rival. But Tudor court intrigue, as Wolf Hall so skillfully depicts, is rarely straightforward. The episode introduces a further complication – a clandestine affair involving the Duke’s brother. This discovery, potentially ruinous for the Norfolk family, adds another twist to the ongoing power struggle, offering Cromwell another avenue to exploit.
While most would seize the chance to crush their enemies, Cromwell, ever the pragmatist, makes a surprising decision. Choosing to hold back, at least for now, leaves audiences dangling in suspense, pondering his motives and the potential consequences of his restraint.
This unexpected move sets the stage for escalating tension and intrigue in the episodes to come. “Obedience” continues to explore the intricate relationships, alliances, and betrayals that characterized the Tudor court, making it clear that no victory is assured and every move carries significant risk.
Wolf Hall: Obedience airs on BBC One at 9:00 PM on Sunday, November 17, 2024.
