Review of Episode Five of "The Pillars of the Earth"

It was certainly an emotionally and politically charged episode of The Pillars of the Earth this week, as various forces contended with one another over various issues. While Waleran and Regan conspired to ensure they remain on the winning side of the ongoing war between Stephen and Maude for the throne of England. On the more personal level, Prior Philip and the good people of Kingsbridge underwent some very traumatic events which, unfortunately, resulted in the death of the beloved and very talented Tom Builder.

As in earlier episodes of this very well-done miniseries, the performances were high caliber. Although we did not get to see as much of the villainous and conniving Bishop Waleran this episode, we got some interesting glimpses into the building of the cathedral, and the simmering conflict and competition between Jack and Alfred over the love of Aliena. As always, Alfred came across as a brooding and sulking brute, while Jack appeared as a loveable and quite fiercely intelligent sprite. If the previews are any indication (and if the series continues to maintain its faithfulness to the original novel,) we will probably see Aliena fall into Jack's arms before she ultimately realizes that Jack is the one that she really loves.

Similarly, although we did not get to see very much of the rogue William in this week's episode of The Pillars of the Earth, the little that we did get to see erased any amount of sympathy that we might have gained for him in earlier episodes. His brutal and cruel murder of Tom Builder, to say nothing of the fact that he attempted to burn Aliena to death, has finally achieved the effect that has, up until this point, been somewhat lacking. It is now possible to hate him, and indeed it is almost impossible not to do so. Not only has he proven himself a brute and a bully, but he has also proven himself a coward by his willingness to slaughter those who have not done anything to harm him and are virtually defenseless.

It is also interesting to note that there are a number of tiny little side-stories that, although they do not get very much screen time, nevertheless offer a glimpse into the many lives that make up the tapestry of this tale. One notable example is that of the likeable and intelligent Brother Cuthbert, who found himself face-to-face with his prostitute sister, whose fate he constantly sees as his own fault, as a result of which he torments himself.

As the series continues to build momentum, we will no doubt get to see the final completion of the cathedral and, one hopes, the just fate of those who have so far tried to impede its construction, including and especially Waleran, Regan, and William. In the meantime, we can continue to enjoy the fascinating and scintillating blend of politics, love, betrayal, and hope that this series manages to weave together so well. This continues to be a fine realization of the imagination of the author Ken Follett.