Succession Recap: Funeral Logan
Introduction
This article is a recap of the penultimate episode of the fourth season of the critically acclaimed TV series “Succession.” Titled “Church and State,” the episode focuses on the funeral of the patriarch Logan Roy and his legacy. The article explores the themes and characters in the episode and their significance in the show’s narrative.
Ewan’s Eulogy
Ewan, Logan’s estranged brother, delivers a powerful and emotional eulogy that challenges the false balance and narcissism that have defined Logan’s career. He shares intimate details of their childhood that shed light on Logan’s formative experiences and personality traits.
Security at the Funeral
The article notes the improbability of Ewan being allowed to speak at a funeral attended by a Rupert Murdoch type figure and his entourage. The show prioritizes dramatic tension and storytelling over verisimilitude in this instance.
Logan’s Self-possession
The article notes how Logan’s childhood experience of staying quiet and still for three nights and two days during their family’s voyage across the Atlantic during World War II contributed to his self-possession and mental toughness.
Logan’s Vulnerability
The article shares how Logan’s belief that he brought home the disease that killed his baby sister contributed to his sense of guilt and the need to achieve greatness to make up for it. The article suggests that Logan’s children may be learning of these details for the first time.
The Roy Kids’ Reaction
The article notes how Kendall, Shiv, and Roman, Logan’s children, are rapt with attention as Ewan shares stories of their father’s childhood. The article suggests that these details could help viewers and the children better understand Logan’s character and motivations.
The Church and State Episode
The article notes how the title “Church and State” refers to the separation of institutions, journalist independence, and the fact that the funeral occurs in a church where literal matters of state are being negotiated. The episode explores two polar-opposite visions of what it means to live a good life.
Two Visions of a Good Life
The article notes how the episode contrasts two visions of a good life represented by Logan and Ewan. Logan’s life is defined by his wealth, power, and influence, while Ewan’s life is defined by his values, principles, and love for his family and country.
Shakespearean Resonances
The article notes how “Succession” collects Shakespearean resonances with each new episode, including the use of florid language and the complex moral dilemmas faced by the characters. The show explores themes of power, family, loyalty, and legacy.
Conclusion
The “Church and State” episode of “Succession” is a poignant exploration of family, power, and legacy. Through Ewan’s eulogy and the contrasting visions of Logan and Ewan, viewers learn more about the show’s characters and themes. The episode sets the stage for the show’s season finale and creates anticipation for what is to come.
FAQs
1) What is “Succession”?
“Succession” is a TV series on HBO about the Roy family, a powerful and dysfunctional family that owns a global media empire. The show explores themes of power, family, loyalty, and legacy.
2) Who is Logan Roy?
Logan Roy is the patriarch of the Roy family and the owner of the family’s media empire, Waystar Royco. He is a ruthless businessman who is feared and respected by his children and his peers.
3) Who is Ewan?
Ewan is Logan’s estranged brother, who is an activist and environmentalist. He is a vocal critic of his brother’s business practices and values.
4) What are some themes in “Succession”?
Some themes in “Succession” include power, family, loyalty, and legacy. The show explores the complex moral dilemmas faced by the characters and the consequences of their actions.
5) Is “Succession” worth watching?
Yes, “Succession” is a critically acclaimed and popular TV series that is worth watching for its compelling characters, complex plotlines, and exploration of themes of power, family, loyalty, and legacy.
