#rewatch: a remedy to cure all ills

[cynthia39100]

Merlin rewatch -- S1E6: A Remedy to Cure All Ills

Uther and Gaius

So, Uther and Gaius’ friendship was a big theme in this episode. A lot of questionable actions Gaius took were “for Uther’s sake” (he said the exact line himself to Geoffrey), so his devotion was apparent, even though the episode still didn’t tell us why. Apart from that, Uther also showed A LOT of his trust and friendship with Gaius it’s unreal.

When Arthur proposed to let Edwin treat Morgana, Uther glanced at Gaius for approval before allowing Arthur to fetch Edwin. I quite like that subtle exchange.

He wasn’t acting hostile after Edwin healed Morgana. He asked Edwin to stay, but he didn’t want to replace Gaius. Edwin was smart. He didn’t outright accuse Gaius’ incapability but used a very convincing argument: age. If Edwin was honest, Gaius truly didn’t recognize Morgana’s illness, it was very dangerous. (Although I think the prominent issue was they only had one physician so there was no good judgement base…)

Uther looked genuinely torn by the decision to retire Gaius. He wasn’t angry. He didn’t ask Gaius to leave. He gave Gaius as much dignity and support as he could. When Gaius tried to defend himself, he was willing to listen. The look when he looked up at Gaius from the chair… it was like he lost his soul. And he kept showing that face in the later scenes too! They worked so hard to make us feel the dilemma in Gaius.

Finally, Uther apologized and appreciated Gaius’ contribution to defeating magic, and Gaius comforted him that he always did what he thought was right. An uncomfortably familiar exchange between King and his trusted advisor… I just hope Arthur and Merlin won’t become like them.

<- Prev Next -> [other episodes]

[thesorcerersshadow]

presented without comment

[xviruserrorx]

MerlinRewatch2023 -> "A Remedy To Cure All Ills" Paradise Lost ~ Masterlist [Prev <- • -> Next]

[tansyuduri]

Merlin Loregasm Rewatch S1E6 (Part2)

Hi Everyone! Welcome to my rewatch of Merlin focusing on the lore. I am a giant nerd so pretty excited about this. We’re on A REMEDY TO CURE ALL ILLS So this is part two because last time I cut off early because there was so much lore and I accidentally posted it! ANYHOW lets continue.

Great Dragon: 20 years almost a lifetime to make the short journey back to were you begun. OKAY! so asuming Arthur is 21 in his of age ceremony in later season one episode EXCALIBUR, it means Gaius likely has not visited the great dragon since Arthur's birth.

What I find especially intersting here is "Back to where you begun" I'm assuming this means the great dragon and not the caves under Camalot.

I think this could have three meanings. If it's connected to the previous statement of 20 years I think it would imply that the great dragon might have been the one to give Gaius the idea to go to the Priestessess about making Arthur. Then Gaius came back after Ygraine died to be like "Dude WTF" to the Dragon. If the mentioning 20 years is not directly connected to "where you began" it could mean that Gaius somehow started on his journey of learning magic with the great dragon. This could explain more about how he knew Balinor ETC. And would be an interesting detail. Did the dragon teach Gaius magic knowing Merlin would turn up one day? Did Gaius just see the dragon doing a spell and be like THAT I WANT THAT. How much did Gaius study with the dragon vrs the godess priesthood he mentions later vrs books?

ANOTHER possibility is that Gaius used to go to the dragon for advice like Merlin did. I think this is less likely because the dragon at that time would not have been conveniently locked up in the basment.

It could also be both of the top two passabilies!

Great Dragon: You have struggled against his destiny but you can no more prevent it than he can! What is the dragon referring to here? We know Gaius has in fact encouraged Merlin to protect Arthur. ALSO, Merlin has not yet done anything to protect Uther at Gaius's urge yet. Later this episode is the first time he does. Gaius has given Merlin the book of spells to help him learn more powerful magic. Does he mean Gaius's urging not to use magic for little things? coresponding to the "Gaius doesn't like me to use it" line Merlin says to Edwin. I think this is the only thing the dragon can possibly mean. He thinks Merlin should be able to use the magic for many things and Gaius is not encouraging him to use it enough.

Great Dragon "He and you young pendragon one day will unite the land of Albion. I mean I guess they will in the sense that they help it be at peace as far as all I know?

Gaius: I will not choose between them (Merlin and Uther)

Great Dragon: Then turn a blind eye. That is afterall your talent.

OOF okay more about Gaius letting the purge happen and siding with Uther. I speculated in the last post about why he might have done this. But still this is REALLY not a good look. And I don't think that reason can be all of it? Was he scared? Was he really that dedicated to Uther? Possibly because Uther united the kingdom and the mess it was in? Or my merlin rewatch discord (this rewatch is seperate from that) is right besides the jokes and Utherus is real. Did he stay behind to try to protect Alice (As she later says) I mean the only time we see him helping sorcerers is with Merlin and Alice. (And in his own twisted reasoning Morgana) He tends to keep their magic a secret at times (Like with Gilli) But doesn't really go out of his way to help them.

The dragon interestingly does not mention magic returning to Albion but Gaius does assure Merlin that one day his gifts will be reconized. So apparently he is all alright with magic coming back eventually. So he cannot have been overly invested in it being destroyed. Even if he does fear it some like I theorized. It was to be one of the other reasons. Personally my bet is it's a mix of a lot of them. People tend to be complicated and it was a HUGE decision Gaius made. It makes sense to me he had a lot of reasons.

WHOA hold up! Gaius has only been in the court of Camelot since around Arthurs's birth? I mean judging by other conversations I assumed it was a lot longer. AND HE WAS CLOSLY INVOLVED IN MAKING IT HAPPEN? Why did Uther trust him so much, Why did Uther not turn on him? This could be another reason he went along with the purge for the most part. Freaking out about Uther blaming and executing him? Liking his new gig? So he became court physician around the birth of arthur... Events he helped make happen. I mean it could help explain Uther's hot and cold attitude to Gaius. Gaius helped him get a son. But that son cost him his wife, Gaius blamed magic and went along with him to try to destroy it? Also did Gaius become a "Legend, and THE VERY BEST" viewed physician during those 20 years? I have a suspicion he was before hand and Uther was like I can't do anything to get a baby don't we have that legendary physician somewhere in the kingdom? Then just up and fired the physician he had or something. (I'm assuming he already had one partly out of basic logic and party because it would explain why Gaius was not ALREADY court Physician if he was so good.) BUT this all assumes that Gaius was already so renowned that Also could have happened AFTR becoming court physician. If it was before it could also explain why uther did not just off him. He is the BEST Legendary. That would be some status to have him.

Arnica being prescribed for an old battle wound on the shouldor that gives a lot of pain makes sence. It's been used for centuries as a pain remedy. HELL you can get Arnica Gell today to help with a variety of issues. (Try rubbing it on the belly if you get period cramps.) Arnica also specializes in muscle pain, stiffness, swelling from injuries, and bruising. Its poisonous if ingested but rubbed on the body that stuff is a miracle.

I forgot to mention this earlier BUT WHO THE FUCK let a litteral child attend his parent's death by burning? Was he made to by someone? was there simply no one to stop him? AND HE JUMPED INTO THE FIRE TO SAVE THEM WTF

Edwin: with your death magic will return to camalot.

UH how does he figure? Even assuming no one ever finds out he used magic to kill Uther. Is he just gonna slowly bring it back? What is his game plan? I mean he has to know it's gonna hurt his credibility when Morgana's dreams return. (And another thing I will go into later) Is he just gonna enchant Arthur or...? If he has that kind of power why did he not use it before?

Gaius: I will not allow you to kill Uther

Edwin: You've never had a problem letting people die before

Gaius: Your parents where practicing dark magic, just like you

Ok so in this case they were practicing dark magic. But it could not have been in every case. I do like a lot of Aspects of Gaius's relationship with Merlin but MAAAAN

Okay Man Edwin you really did not think this through! If you could cure it once you would be expected to cure it again. And you are not even hiding so you are hard to find. You are in your freaking room. You would be expected to cure it! So how the hell was magic going to come back. Were you just planing to say "Sorry I cannot cure it this time?"

HEY! first time a baddie does the "join me Merlin" thing. Also this was his plan? Take the kingdom by force, possibly with Merlin. That would not have gone over well or worked well. Unless he was planning top just dominate and rule through Arthur? But if he had that kinda power why did he have to go though all this? I really don't think this guy has thought through his long term plan.

Okay so Elanthia is the name of the world in a text based computer game about dragons... Melanthia means "black flower" in greek. So not much behind the name here. Also it's interesting they can be enchanted to enter the brain and feed on it until they devour the soul. This implies the Soul kinda lives in the brain in the Merlin word.

Uther (looking sad) "There is nothing wrong with my strength. Do you remember them? His parents?

Gaius: I remember them all Sire.

Uther: Gaius, Once again you've saved my life. You've always served me well. And I know there are things that I've asked you to do, which you've found difficult

Gaius: You've always done what you believed to be right.

Uther: I was not right to betray you. I'm sorry. From now on I will remember, that in the fight against magic, you are the one person I can trust

Interstingly this implies Uther is kind of haunted by the people he has killed but possibly not enough to remember faces. (or he could just be asking if Gaius remembers them too) this is futher evidenced by the mandrake later using images of people he killed to torment him. Its an interesting detail that humanises him a TINY bit despite him being just a horrible horrible person. Also what did he ask Gaius to do? Everyone else talks about Gaius standing by, is that what he refers to? Or did he ask Gaius to be an active part in finding magic users? Gosh I hope not. This scene also shows that Gaius is in fact haunted by what happened as he remembers all the faces. The line he uses to reassure Uther is actually one Merlin uses on Arthur. The difference is what Arthur believes to be right is WAY better than what Uther believes to be right. Also Uther will only remember this until next season. Another difference between him and Arthur.

Uther: But hencforth you are a free man of camalot In feudalism, a free man is someone not nobility but higher in status than a serf. In traditional feudalism Sefdom was the state of most peasants they were given a plot of land but in exchange for having it were required to work it for the lord and give up a portion of what they made. It was basically a form of indentured servitude. CLEARLY that is not happening here, and prior to becoming this Gaius was still allowed to just leave. So we need to look beyond that! In England it later came to mean a man possessing the full privileges and immunities of a place which admission was usually by birth. HOWEVER Gaius later mentions growing up in Camalot. My guess is, in the Merlin World, this means Gaius is now higher in rank than most commoners and lower than a noble. He might have more social rights and protections or have to pay no taxes for example. (taxes are mentioned later in Merlin so seemed a good example)

[multifandombullshitbabes]

Random Merlin Rewatch: Where a random number generator gives me a season and an episode from BBC Merlin; and then I comment on it as I go.

Today's episode: Season 1 Episode 6 - A Remedy to Cure all Ills

Before I start, let me just say, I'm really happy I'm getting to rewatch the earlier seasons. Of course the next random episode might be literally season 5 or something, but it's great that it hasn't happened yet.

Let's fucking start bitches

Not the wiggly evil fingers just a few seconds in.

Damn boy you got some dirty ass nails, wash your hands.

MORGWEN MY BELOVEDS!!!! Also the way Gwen looked at Morgana after she asked who'd she want the flowers to be from. Girl looked ready to risk it ALL, let me put a screenshot actually.

OUGHHHH the brainrot is real with these two

LIKE??????? GWEN'S THIRSTY (me too)

Alright girls, enough yearning please

Ugh, I hate the little sound the bug made when it dropped from the flower. Butthole clenched in digust.

Oh thank god they DON'T show it literally entering her ear. That would've been so gross.

LETS GO INTROOOOOO

Oh Gwen looks BEAUTIFUL in that yellow color. It does everything for her!!

"She's all but dead, Merlin." JESUS FUCKING CHRIST GAIUS

Most suspicious ruse of all time. "Oh, i have a cure for all ills. And also I know the king's ward is very sick. But anyways, I'll be at the inn :)." Bitch.

"But I'm not worried." me when I lie. Merlin is so bad at lying, jesus fuck

Merlin sits down to stop pacing. Arthur gets up and starts pacing. Two sides of the same coin or whatever.

Underrated Arthur shirt is the purplish one he wears in the scene where he begs Uther n Gaius to hear the strange man out. That color looks good on him. It might be his red shirt but in a weird lighting?? I can't be sure.

I really like when Gaius gets to talk all medical considering how limited the medicine world was at the time. It's really really cool, I love seeing this insight into what was possibly like to be a physician at the time. I don't of this happens much in the show.

Arthur really is so trusting when it comes to his loved ones. Of course he's not at fault, like he said what do they have to lose at this point, honestly I've done the same. It's just. Heartbreaking to notice that trait knowing what comes next.

"Science is knowledge." Merlin is such a nerd, I love him.

Oh, not Gaius and Edwin having a lying competition over here. There's a better term for it, but whatever.

Gwen is SO FUCKING GORGEOUS but girl please that's a fucking sorcerer, go AWAY be SAFE. She's so smart though. Immediately knew something was off. He tries to be all "She may die :(." to get her to be worried and not suspicious, but it literally doesn't work. She leaves the room but not because she thinks he's got Morgana's best interests at heart. She knows something is wrong. She also knows she holds no power. And on the chance that he is right and Morgana dies, she'd never forgive herself.

The fucking lying back and forth between Gaius and Edwin. Like. From the outside, it sounds like a perfectly normal convo. But they both know it isn't. And WE know it isn't 'cause we know Edwin's full of shit.

Interesting how Arthur isn't seated but Uther and Morgana are.

Who the fuck knocks on someone's door, doesn't hear an answer, and then just let's themselves in?? I'm sorry, if you're a stranger, I'm not doing that. The fuck's wrong with you Merlin, you nosy boy??

It is so sickening that these villains of the week have views that we can agree with. Yes, magic is a gift and can be a force for good, you're right! But it's because of Uther and his oppression that they turn bitter and ruthless and vindictive. And yes, you do have to eliminate those who are like Uther because they will only propagate the same corrupted and repressive beliefs. The problem, the layers, is that some of those people are actually very much capable of understanding the very fundamental logic that "Sorcerers deserve too live in freedom" but they're so filled with fear and propaganda of the contrary that it's so hard to get out of it. And that's why, if they killed Uther with magic, Arthur would hate magic even more (just like it happens in canon), which would then just repeat the cycle, etc etc. You need to uproot the system, but killing everybody is not the answer; but also having to teach such a fundamental thing, that certain humans deserve basic rights, is such a painful thing to teach, and the oppressed does not have the obligation to do so. But then the cycle just repeats and repeats and it's SHIT. Anyways.

It's so funny that in season 1 they hadn't figured out the cgi for the golden eyes so they just. simply don't show it.

The things Edwin say are like. Well-meaning. But there's just this off vibe that the most intelligent characters (Gaius, Gwen, Merlin) can just. pick up. And even though Merlin really likes what Edwin is saying, there's just something telling him... it's wrong.

Uther, of course, would never even believe anyone would just lie so blatantly and manipulate him like this because he thinks himself very intelligent; which is why he's falling for everythinggg that Edwin says. But, credit where credit's due, Edwin is an excellent liar.

Gaius wears the most cunty ring on his pinky finger, hello?

I want that ring bro.

Oop, not Gaius having his cowardice and betrayal shoved right in his face. I get it, you wanted safety. But there's consequences to your actions. And I know Gaius feels so guilty about all his friends that died at the stake while he remained safe and sound.

If Gaius would've left in this episode, replaced by Edwin, I bet Morgana would've felt so guilty. In her mind, her illness is what caused him to leave. Gaius truly was there for Morgana and Arthur in ways Uther simply could not.

OOP Gaius and Kilgarrah meeting!!!!!!!! I forgot this happened lmao

Gaius got a little taste of how infuriating the dragon is.

Wait, Gaius was employed for Arthur's birth? That's so interesting. He probably already lived in Camelot but he's been a court physician for 20 years. He was already quite old by then.

It's the way that Gaius is just. Ready to throw his whole life away to make sure Merlin is safe and sound. That's his fucking son, bro!!!

What the actual fuck, they're gonna make me cry :(((( Gaius called Merlin a blessing and his son, I can't.

THEY CAN'T DO THIS TO MEEEEEEE IM GONNA CRY

Gwen is so iconic, speak the fucking truth girl.

THAT ICONIC GWEN LINE YESSSSSSSSSS QUEENNNN

Not Gaius with his lil blanket and lil fire. He looks so smol, it's so funny.

Edwin could've waited a lil bit before going all murder on Uther. That just looks suspicious as fuck ngl.

GAIUS GETTING BLOWN BACK SHOULD'NT BE SO FUNNY BUT--

I wonder how Arthur knew that his father was ill. It means he went into his room, but why? Did he have some feeling about Edwin? About Gaius leaving? Was it some courtly concern? I'm assuming no one else would have the privilege of seeing Uther at night except for his son and ward so.

Yes, Merlin, just stare at the floating axe that's being controlled by the evil sorcerer right in front of you, you're so smart. Also the slow-mo is so goofy.

It's interesting that they shot both Merlin and Edwin's eyes up-close when they did magic, Merlin to do the golden eye effect, but for Edwin it seems that his pupils just change size. I wonder if not all sorcerers have their eyes glow, if it depends on the magic. Edwin is using dark magic, could it be that? That's interesting, imo. Dark magic equals no golden eyes. Kinda fun.

Violent ass death for Edwin, damn. Axe to head, bitchass

Oh it must be so weird for Merlin to be touching Uther like that. Like that's intimate as shit.

So cuteeee Gaius calling Merlin a genius, they're adorable. He's so proud. That was a feat, though, just pure improv and luck. Merlin is still a noob at controlled magic so this was really damn good.

Love that it's so canon that Gaius potions taste like fucking ASS. Uther's face, lmao.

Interesting that Uther asked if Gaius remembered his friends that burned at the pyre, and Gaius answers "All of them." and Uther doesn't even comment. As bonkers as it sounds, they truly are friends in some capacities. I wonder if Gaius could make Uther change his mind. Not Morgana or Arthur, but Gaius. But he made the choice to abandon magic, Uther presumed because Gaius understood its dangers, but if he were to find out that actually Gaius doesn't agree, I wonder what Uther would think about that. Like a genuine and open convo about it. I think he'd just arrest Gaius for it, but I don't know. I think there's at least some reality where he gives it some more thought. But I don't know if he'd ever repel the ban, more because he'd have to admit that he was wrong, and admitting you're wrong is also accepting and processing all the shit you did for that wrong thing, and I just think Uther is too cowardly to do so. He knows it would break his mind to truly process all the pain and horror he's caused; so no matter his inner philosophies, he'll never repel the ban, because the damage has been done, and he'd rather live like that than start anew in the new reality where he's wrong.

"In the fight against magic, you are the one person I can trust." yet again. Gaius going against this? Uther can't fathom it. He's so confident that Gaius is 100% on his side.

Arthur smiling at Gaius, awww.

Two pretty bestfriends. No wonder half the kingdom wants to fuck them both. Also what the fuck is a "freeman"??? Genuinely, what is it??

And that is it. Loved it, of course.

[roomsofmyheart]

I always wonder why Gaius is so utterly loyal to Uther even though he’s treated very poorly by him *a lot*

Gaius gives up his love Alice to stay by Uther’s side and the use of his magic as well. This last bit might be due to the implication that Uther has pardoned him in the past for being a sorcerer because Gaius has “helped” him in his ruthless pursuit of wiping out anything magic related.

I’m rewatching season one again and the Remedy to Cure All Ills episode really made me notice how their relationship is kind of a shadow of Merlin and Arthur’s. That is, if Arthur ended up following directly in his father’s footsteps and if Merlin didn’t insist on pushing him in the right direction.

There’s also so many parallels with Merlin/Arthur and Gaius/Uther. Both sorcerers are undoubtedly loyal to their kings (the differences here being that when Merlin doesn’t approve of something Arthur does and makes it known, Arthur actually listens and considers it), devote their magic (or lack of using magic) to them, and, if it really came down to it, would choose them over magic.

[adhd-merlin]

merlin S1 rewatch: episode 6

it’s been a hot minute! today’s commentary is about episode 1x06, A Remedy to Cure All Ills. which I re-watched more than a month ago actually, but I’ve been busy.

just some random comments and thoughts (as usual), and not an actual review or analysis.

I think this episode is extremely underrated – I loved it the first time I watched it, and I still thoroughly enjoyed it on my rewatch. yes, it’s kind of a filler episode with a very traditional Villain of the Week format – but it's a great villain.

Julian Rhind-Tutt’s performance as Edwin is great and I love a suave, smooth-talking, scheming villain as much as the next person. The way he manipulates people, never suggesting anything outright but playing on people’s fears and biases, only saying just enough to make them reach the conclusion he wants. Something very Richard III about it. Very Iago.

EDWIN: “No… I shan’t say”

Another thing I love about this episode is the rare (unique?) instance of Merlin showing his magic to another sorcerer whom he isn't suspicious of (the audience knows Edwin is the Bad Guy, of course, but at this point Merlin doesn't).

I can’t think of another moment like this in the series. Freya didn’t actually have magic. There is Gilli, but when Merlin reveals his magic to him he already knows of the boy's intention to kill Uther, and it is a last attempt to stop Gilli from committing regicide without putting him in harm’s way. Merlin's relationship with Mordred and the Druids was always complicated by prophecies and by his role as Emrys.

But there’s none of that here. Edwin tells Merlin that magic can be used for good, and that it can be ENJOYED! which is all Merlin ever wanted to hear. And it’s a bit heartbreaking to see the hope on Merlin's face, knowing all that is going to happen later in the series.

I also loved the previous interaction between Merlin and Edwin:

“It can’t explain love”!! He’s a romantic. He loves love 🥺🥺🥺

I think the writers lost sight of Edwin’s motive a bit by the time they got to the ending. He’s not content with just killing Uther, he also wants to… rule the kingdom? And he tells Merlin they can do it together? (a concept revisited in the Cornelius Sigan episode). I don't think it works well.

I think Edwin’s final evil speech would have been way more impactful if he had tried to appeal to Merlin’s empathetic side, instead of his non-existent thirst for power, and reminded him of all the suffering Uther caused and why he deserved to die. I guess that would be a moral dilemma that deserves more than a few minutes of screen time to be resolved satisfactorily, and we’re already at the end of the episode at this point.

The series does dwell on it in To Kill the King, to be fair, but I think the “why not just let Uther die?” dilemma could have been presented before then. (Merlin's momentarily hesitation at healing Uther at the end is more to do with his fear of being seen using magic by Uther than by an actual reluctance to save the king.)

Anyway. I still think this is a very good episode overall, even with its relatively weak ending.

Other random thoughts:

The random-ass reference to alchemy. Something that wasn’t elaborated on, nor ever mentioned again (??) Missed opportunity imo.

Gaius is made "a free man of Camelot", whatever that means. (Does it mean that he, like Merlin, is not from Camelot? Or is it some kind of special privilege? We don’t know. I think maybe in Love at the Time of Dragons Gaius mentions something about he and Alice coming to Camelot but I can’t remember and I can’t be bothered to check now)

Some excellent display of brotherly concern from Arthur when Morgana falls sick. He's the one pushing for Uther to call for Edwin. We love to see it

Merlin and Gaius all but call each other father and son. DON’T TOUCH ME.

Gaius was 100% ready to let Uther die if it meant saving Merlin’s life. btw.

Gaius and Uther. WHAT ARE THEY

All the heavy hints at Gaius’s acting as a Category Traitor in the Great Purge + the only instance of Gaius talking to Kilgharrah (!!!) I am obsessed with it

The paralles between Uther & Gaius and Arthur & Merlin. I feel absolutely normal about it

“Now, open your eyes, My Lord. I want my face to be the last face you ever see.” -> I don’t care if it’s cliched, this line fucks

MERLIN CLAIMS ANOTHER VICTIM, AT LAST!! I was starting to worry but finally my baby is back to killing people :)

[livvyofthelake]

and you know what i did with my nails today. i did the same pink and teal jewel toned gradient that i did two years ago (exactly two years ago) when i spent the day of march 19th 2022 doing my nails and watching four episodes of bbc merlin and altering the course of my life forever….. yeah i started that show on the 17th but it didn’t have me hooked in its evil little claws until the 19th. yeah it was the poisoned chalice that got me. of course it was get serious. anyway that was the first and only time i ever watched the remedy to cure all ills, that episode stressed me out so bad i’ve never rewatched it in two years. likely i never will. or at least not soon. anyway. it’s currently filling me with a deep longing and sadness and nostalgia to look at my nails rn

[thisisjustmefangirling]

Merlin rewatch, 1x06 : “A remedy to cure all ills”

This time I haven’t really taken notes while I was watching, so instead I’ll criticise the episode by talking about the characters.

Gaius : 

This episode is really good to bring up with more depth what happened during the Great Purge, and Gaius’ attitude and morals, both back then and during this episode, and lemme tell you, that man is shady.

He apparently stood by and let Uther murder people exactly like him, who were using magic.

We’ve already seen that he can still do a bit of magic, like when he used a spell for the antidote to the poison Merlin drank to save Arthur’s life; here he tries to use magic again, to attack Edwin, and fails. His magic does not manifest.

It’s really interesting to see that Edwin, before even trying to kill Uther, starts by discrediting Gaius, getting him kicked out of his position of physician. Of course, it allows Edwin to get closer to Uther so he can poison and kill him, but being a physician is almost all that Gaius has in life; except for Merlin.

And here lies my biggest issue : Gaius confesses to Merlin that Merlin is like a son to him. But he also says, in another scene, that he refuses to choose between Uther and Merlin. So Gaius loves Uther (a tyrant, murderer, who committed genocide) as much as he loves sweet Merlin ? Yes, at this point, Merlin has been in his life only for a few months (I guess), and he’s served Uther all his life. 

Gaius even asks Merlin to save Uther’s life by risking his own, using magic to remove the magical insects from Uther’s brain.

The fact he goes to visit the Great dragon, discusses Merlin’s destiny, and discusses the past with Geoffrey shows how much of his past he’s buried but still keeps in mind.

I never thought anything of Gaius when I was a teenager watching the show for the first time. He was the mentor, the father figure, the Yoda, the Dumbledore. But since then I’ve realised how shady Dumbledore and him are, and I can’t wait to rewatch more episodes and criticise him even more.

Arthur : 

Arthur has no important role in this episode, he is mostly anxious to save Morgana, insisting that Edwin be heard and examines her; and then he’s in a panic when his father seems to be suffering from the same evil as Morgana. This episode shows how much he cares about his family.

My favourite scene is when he’s in his chambers with Merlin, who’s pacing, thinking about Morgana.

“Merlin. You’re making me anxious”.

“But I’m not worried”.

“Then stop. Pacing.”

They spend time together. By the fire. In the evening. Sweet.

Merlin : 

Merlin shows he cares about Morgana and once again wants to use magic to save her, which shows he hasn’t really learnt from what happened when he saved Tom and Gwen was accused of witchcraft. He’s still rather young and innocent, wants to do what is right. He’s fascinated by Edwin’s equipment, and thrilled when he can show off his magic without fear.

Edwin was right about one thing : Merlin’s gift should not be hidden but practiced, encouraged, celebrated, and he needs someone to teach him. Sadly, Gaius won’t be a very good teacher. Except for the lies. Merlin will learn from Gaius that he must lie.

Gaius is good for Merlin as a father figure, because it’s true that Merlin has the fire and recklessness of youth and must be reined in sometimes.

In this episode, he murders Edwin with an axe, by reversing the spell Edwin used against him to animate the object. It sounded rather gruesome. 

Plot hole : they never mention finding Edwin’s body with an axe in it ? Do they, what, think he disappeared ?

Gwen :

Gwen is very sweet to Morgana, and also not blind. She doesn’t trust Edwin, clearly, and wants to stay by Morgana’s side. Adorable.

Morgana : 

If people could stop targeting her to use her to their ends, that would be lovely, thanks.

Edwin :

Damn dude you were clever and sort of right about this but also wrong because Morgana was innocent, and your parents were practicing DARK magic ? I pity you for seeing your parents burn, though.

[franzis-frantic-thoughts]

Welcome to Day 4 of Merlin Rewatch 2023, where court intrigue returns and we're introduced to a major location of Arthuriana.

S01E06 — A Remedy to Cure All Ills

Receiving tainted lilies collected by unsuspecting Gwen, royal ward Morgana falls ill with an unidentified brain disease Gaius can't cure. Mysterious healer Edwin's "remedy to cure all ills" seemingly works (by actually removing the cursed black beetle he hid in the lilies). As Edwin maneuvers grateful King Uther to instate him as new court physician, Gaius gets court archivist Geoffrey to allow him illegal access to the sealed records of Uther's purge of magic, revealing Edwin's parents as executed black sorcerers. After consulting the dragon (who says he must choose whether or not Arthur and Merlin's destined time has come), Gaius, taking a threat by Edwin to expose Merlin's magic, tells Merlin - the "son he never had" - that the time has come to step down. Edwin, now free to use another beetle, condemns Uther to an agonizing death like his parents but takes one monumental risk - a duel of magic with 'mere novice' Merlin.

S01E07 — The Gates of Avalon

When Arthur becomes besotted with a mysterious girl, he stands to lose more than just his heart.

I hope you all enjoyed the first week of Merlin Rewatch 2023. I know I did!

[cynthia39100]

Merlin rewatch -- S1E6: A Remedy to Cure All Ills

Gwen

The younger characters had little things to do in this episode, but I love that one scene with Gwen and Gaius very much (despite the fact that the timing of her revelation of Edwin’s misdeed was weird…and that I was still annoyed by Gaius).

My favourite part wasn’t her suspicion for Edwin or her wise words to Gaius (It’s still a great line. “ In life we always have a choice. Sometimes it’s easier to think we don’t.” ) What I love was that after Gaius said he had made the choice to leave, Gwen simply said “ Then I’ll miss you.” She was so kind and respectful. She said what she wanted to say, but didn’t push or begrudge other’s decisions. It’s so lovely.

<- Prev [other episodes]

[thesorcerersshadow]

“you have magic”

“it wasn’t me, i didn’t do anything.”

god… the way merlin says this softly but so quickly, his eyes wide and nervous. the way he always falls back on ‘deny, deny, deny’ because what else can he do?

and he does that even after he watches edwin use magic, too, he’s still Really Hesitant. not running away, but not immediately trusting either.

he only opens up a little once edwin starts talking about how magic can be a force for good—something merlin wants so badly for other people to see 😭

[xviruserrorx]

Merlin Rewatch 2023

Hosted by:

Rules (for myself): Scenes just from that episode or previous episodes, or if in a case of a acception then it has to at least have one scene from that episode

Season 1

1x01 "The Dragon's Call"

1x02 "Valiant"

1x03 "The Mark Of Nimueh"

1x04 "The Poisoned Chalice"

1x05 "Lancelot"

1x06 "A Remedy To Cure All Ills"

1x07 "The Gates Of Avalon"

1x08 "The Beginning Of The End"

1x09 "Excalibur"

1x10 "The Moment Of Truth"

1x11 "The Labyrinth Of Gedref"

1x12 "To Kill The King"

1x13 "La Morte D'Arthur"

Season 2

Season 3

Season 4

Season 5

5x13 "Diamond Of The Day II"

[tansyuduri]

Merlin Loregasm Rewatch S1E6 (Part1)

Hi Everyone! Welcome to my rewatch of Merlin focusing on the lore. I am a giant nerd so pretty excited about this. We’re on A REMEDY TO CURE ALL ILLS

(Hoo boy theres gonna be a LOT of lore in this one! Let's go!)

Ok more examples on how medical knowledge in Camalot is HUGLY advanced despite still beliving in Humorism and four elements. Gaius originally blames Morgana's condition on inflammation of the brain perhaps caused by infection. Infection itself was not understood and tended to be blamed on bad air, god, planetary conjunction, or natural disasters (Mostly bad air and god if it was a widespread contagion though) Some folk healers DID know how to tend it with herbs! The idea that an infection could be inside or effect distant areas like the brain in this kinda way is pretty advanced. Again I chalk this up to the world having magic. Another tool to understand what is going on around them that real history did not.

Gaius: see if you can find me some fresh rosemary and Yarrow

Rosemary and Yarrow can be combined to help achy joints, inflamed muscles, nerve pain, wounds, bruises, swelling, inflammation, and sprains Rosemary also stimulates circulation and blood flow

The idea of a remedy to cure all ills was very much a thing. It was called a panacea and was around as an idea from Greek times and named after a Greek goddess of medicine. Elements and Humors ALSO came from greek times, Greeks were hugely influential in science. It was greatly sought by alchemists and people of learning. This is likely part of why Arthur was not like GTFO. (Even if he was not interested in the offer at first out of loyalty to Gauis) More on this in a sec

Arthur: He says he has a remedy to cure all ills

Gaius: Impossible

Arthur: For Morgana's sake surely we should at least hear him out. I mean what have we go to loose. Please father

Gaius: Probably some Charlatan hoping for a quick shilling

Arthur: I don't care if she is about to die what harm can it do!?

Two things to address here. First of all Gaius is not pulling the charlatan idea out of nowere Or the impossible. As much as a Panacrea was believed to exist. There was no proof of the concept. One might hear about it existing in distant lands or the like. But someone like Gaius might be skeptical of the concept after his MANY MANY years spent in medical practice. Its possible he tried and failed to create it himself too. FURTHERMORE selling a supposed Panacrea was a thing MANY MANY charlatans did. It was perfect for praying on desperate people.

Now onto Shilling, I belvie this is the only time a unit of money is mentioned specifically in Merlin. It originalted from an anglo saxon phrase that meant twentieth of a pound. It was intoduced as "Shilling" much later in history. So I belive it is being used here as a generalism for a small amount of money. I don't think there are actually shillings in the Merlin universe. BUT one never knows. There are a lot of other historicaly inacurate things. Its part of what makes the show so fun!

This checks out Alchemy was thought to be the way to create a Panacrea . It was mainly focused on finding a way to create enternal life and gold though the philosophers stone. (More in later eppisodes) But it was also the forerunner of modern chemistry thus a physician would use a LOT of the same equipment!

Okay in Medieval times this would normally be known as apoplexy. It came from, the greek word apoplexia meaning to be stuck down suddenly with violance, Apoplexy meant when a person was struck down for seemlingly no reason without conviousness or motion maintaining pulse and breathing and later came cover things like stokes or Cerebral Hemorrage. It was still though this was caused by Humoral issues. This would presist to near modern day. It was not until 1658 that Cerebral Hemorage was first identified as a thing diferant from other types of Apoplexy So again Medicine in BBC Merlin is WAY ahead of its time. I will chalk it up in these case once again to the existance of magic, but ALSO to the fact that autopsies were likley a thing! (I've said this many times but this is more evidence to my theory as autopsies were integral of seperating apoplexy into diferant things.)

Morgana uses the word Heaven here. While the word usualy has a conotation of christianity/jusdism/islam it can also mean pagan afterlives. Still I'm making a note in case it becomes important later.

Gaius: I wish to see the court records for the time of the great purge

Geoffery: what possible need could you have for those.

Gaius: I fear that the past may have come back to haunt us

Geoffery: all the mroe reason to keep the records hidden

Gaius: I know that neither of us wants to remember that time, but this is a matter of great urgency.

Geoffery: The record are sealed they cannot be oppened. Uther has forbidden it.

Okay we need to examine WHY Uther might have forbidden it. He has no trouble thinking about it. He has no issue mentioning it. The first episode is a celebration of it!

I mean the fact he was later tormented be seeing the souls of those he killed MIGHT hint he had some regrets about what he did? But he might just have been terrified to see them back? And compared to everything else where he seems to have no regrets?

SOOO perhaps It has to do with Ygraine's death and Arthur's birth. But they can't have recorded what they did right? Since that is a big secret? OR DID they somehow record it and Geoffery was actually one of the few in the know? Perhaps he never looked at the documents? WHY WOULD YOU RECORD IT?

If Nimueh was indeed court sorceress perhaps Uther doesnt want Arthur to be able to look at the records and see OH dad had a court sorceress that escaped just after I was born!

I'm KINDA a bit stumped here UNLESS

the line "I know neither of us wants to remember that time" Okay sure it could be Geoferry just doesnt want to remember all the people dying. BUT could it mean he was into magic too? Or had a loved one who was into magic? Was he actually IN on Arthurs birth too? Or told about it. DID THEY ACTUALLY RECORD THAT SHIT? WHY? I think they possably actually recorded it. It makes the most sence because storywise this could then be another hint at the mystery of Arthur's birth that is a bit of a focus this season and is being built up.

Okay Angels are not pagan at ALL. they are christian/jewish/muslim (and a few others) So we have a point towoerd at elast one of those being comon place in the merlin world. I know some fans debate camalot being some form of early christian which is why I am paying attention to all these little religion things.

My currant working theory is that there is a weirdly pagan or pagan-ajasent version of christianity that is left over from when the romans where in control. And has had a long time to blend with the traditional godess religion/culture in isolation of other christian sects. Thus a "New Religon" existing.

This is what he says giving over the records. Which okay? I mean they both likley already know what is inside. but I guess disobeying a direct order from Uther can be a death sentance? I feel like there is somthing I am missing.

I think him mentioning this is really intersting. BECAUSE the dreams are not gonna stop. He has no reason to think they will stop. So by implying they were a warning for her condition. So either he plans to bring the condition back, Or is counting on the fact he is not going to stay for too long. He can chalk them up to her recovering sure. but eventually she will recover. Just an intersting hint that he knows he will not be staying too long.

Gaius: I often wondered what happened to that poor young boy

Edwin: I told you we've never met before

Gaius: I didn't realize who you were until I check the records you used your mother's maiden name. You are Gregor and Jaden's Son

Edwin: They were freinds of yours.

Gaius: They were sorceres

Edwin: They practiced magic, so did a lot of people back them Gaius.

Gaius: Uther will be furrius when he finds out who you are

Edwin: Fine, Fine shall we tell him? lets go tell him. Lets tell him, Lets tell him everything ooh! I know we could also tell him about Merlin?

Gaius: merlin?"

Edwin: you didn't know he was a sorcerer? Tsk, ahhh I wonder what Uther will do. Problubly have him burned? Gaius: you would betray another sorccerer

Edwin: You did when you turned a blind eye and let my parents die at the hands of Uther. At least Merlin doesnt have a son that will try to rescue him from the flames? Okay first of all going back to my post on episode one I wonder if a last name means noble. If so its intersting because Uther did not reconize a noble family because a maiden name was used. Or hes not and last names are a fluke. Also although Gaius later reveals that his parents practiced dark magic he did not bring it up here. Or deny he was freinds with them. Possably because he knew it would not convince Edwin? And not everyone who practiced magic back then (A lot of people) could have used dark magic. This is the first time we realize that Gaius was essentully a colaborater. Its not a good look for him. Not only did he choose to let his freinds die to stick by Uther. HE IS STILL trying to protect Uther. But he is willing to give up Uther to protect Merlin. And is later revealed to have saved Alice. So some part of me wonders how close of freinds they could have been? One thing I wonder is if Gaius actually agreed with Uther on a level. Perhaps there were a lot of people abusing magic. (As hinted at in episode one) So he actually thinks magic is often bad and often corrupts. (To be clear I'm not excusing his behavior.) This is why he is so hesitant to let Morgana know about her magic. And he is so strict with Merlin and his. "Its not good or bad its how you use it." But a lot of people give into power and use it for bad? Is this his view?

I know a lot of people equate magic with being born diferant. I do too. Its part of why I relate to Merlin so much. But it seems like for some people in the merlin world it is less who they are and a means of Power for good or ill. (For others they are totally born with it) It does give people power others do not have (Just like being royalty does for example) I am a firm beliver of the idea that power reveals. And we see this a lot in Merlin, both in the choices Uther VRS Arthur make. and in the choices diferant sorcerers make. Back on topic I'm trying to understand why Gaius makes the choices he does. And I think the most likley thing is the man on some level ACTUALLY is afraid of magic and its capacity to currupt which he has seen a lot of and thus supports Uther one some level, perhaps this is even subconcious.

Again this is Tumblr so I need to make clear I DO NOT THINK HE IS IN THE RIGHT HERE. Gaius if this is true is missing HUGE Aspects he should take into consiteration. And the purge? the things Uther did? Just no!

This is intersting because there were not many developments in real medieval time. Another sigh there medical knowlage is very diferant in the Merlin World AND I'm cutting off here. Party because I accidenly posted partly because there is SO MUCH LORE! I will come with part 2 soon!

[prophetiaemerlini]

This magic reveal scene between Edwin and Merlin is so heartbreaking because the whole time the viewer knows that Edwin is up to no good, but Merlin doesn't, and Edwin appears to be a sorcerer who wants to use his magic for good, which isn't something Merlin has had exposure to. Edwin is saying everything Merlin wants to hear: Magic can be a force for good. Why do you fear it? We have a gift. Do you not think it should be used to make this a better world? Why waste this talent? I can teach you.

And it's all important because Merlin is scared and he has doubts. This whole episode and in the episodes before and after, we get a lot of Gaius and others warning him off of using magic for anything that isn't necessary and talking about how it can corrupt. "Gaius doesn't like me to," he says.

And Edwin uses magic easily, for simple things. To clean a small mess. Merlin uses his magic in this scene as well, and it makes him smile.

Edwin says, "A gift like yours should be nurtured, practiced, enjoyed. You need someone to help you, to encourage you."

And then it all goes to hell.

[i-really-should-change-my-url]

Methlin as my Merlin Rewatch Thoughts (1x06)

Andro: HE FELL INTO A BURNING RING OF FIRE HE WENT DOWN DOWN DOWN AND THE FLAMES WENT HIGHER

Change: *Looking at this list afterwards* These aren’t funny. I’m going to bed.

Donts: I’m all for a good “avenge my loved ones” story but not when Morgana is getting harmed.

Duckie: Only two can keep a secret when one of them is dead, you salamander.

Ferret: Edwin, you were rude to Gwen. For that, we must take your kneecaps.

Imy: The potential for good Gaius and Gwen scenes were in this show, so why didn’t we get more?

Jax: I really don’t like shifty, manipulative people. Unless the shifty one is me.

Lemon: Gaius knows how idiotic Merlin is, and yet he’s leaving him? I call abandonment BS.

SC: Ah, Gaius and Kilgharrah, the “let’s send Merlin to his death by giving bad mentorship” squad.

Tilt: Nobody who keeps beetles around is up to any good.