The Pillars of the Earth season 1 episode 1 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
Following a tragic shipwreck claiming the king's son, a succession crisis looms with Maud and Stephen as potential heirs. Monk Philip visits an old monastery, uncovering secrets about the shipwreck. Tom, a master builder, struggles for work and faces personal tragedy, losing his wife during childbirth. Ellen, a woman with a mysterious past, appears with her son, Jack. Political maneuvers escalate as Philip becomes the new Prior of Kingsbridge, and various characters navigate a landscape of intrigue and shifting allegiances.
Full Episode S01E01 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the potential heirs to the throne after the king's son's death?
Maud, the king's daughter, and Stephen, the king's nephew, are potential heirs.
What is Tom's profession and what is his dream?
Tom is a master builder, and his dream is to build a great cathedral.
Who is Ellen and what is her backstory?
Ellen is a mysterious woman with a past linked to a survivor of the shipwreck; she was a renegade nun who fell in love with a Frenchman.
What tragedy befalls Tom's family during a storm?
Tom's wife Agnes dies during childbirth in a storm.
Who becomes the new Prior of Kingsbridge?
Philip is elected as the new Prior of Kingsbridge.
What is the relationship between Father Waleran and Stephen?
Father Waleran supports Stephen as heir to the throne due to Stephen's respect for the Church.
What political maneuvering is happening around Aliena?
Lord Shiring and Percy are discussing marrying off Aliena for political gain.
What secret does Prior James confess to Philip?
Prior James confesses about a survivor from the shipwreck who was wrongly arrested and knew a crucial secret.
Why does Tom leave his newborn son?
Tom leaves his newborn son with God due to the harsh realities and their inability to care for him.
What role does the Church play in the succession question?
The Church, particularly Father Waleran, plays a significant role in influencing the succession in favor of Stephen.
What is the fate of the shipwreck survivor?
The shipwreck survivor was wrongly arrested and had crucial information about the shipwreck.
What is the political situation after King Henry's death?
After King Henry's death, there is a power struggle between Maud and Stephen for the throne, with the Church playing a key role.
How does Philip's election as Prior affect Kingsbridge?
Philip's election as Prior of Kingsbridge suggests potential changes and reforms at the monastery.
What is the significance of Ellen's son Jack?
Jack, Ellen's son, is significant due to his mysterious past and his father being a Frenchman who survived the shipwreck.
What is the state of Tom's family at the end of the episode?
Tom's family is in a state of transition, facing uncertainty and hardship as they head to Kingsbridge for work.