Outlander Review: Temperance (Season 6 Episode 3)

Outlander Season 6 Episode 3, “Temperance,” reminds us there is a world beyond war and stories worth exploring that do not directly impact it.

But the lack of moves hardly means politics on the ridge have gotten dull. On the contrary, this installment puts all its efforts into strengthening the dynamics between unlikely allies.

The dialogue-heavy outing sees brewing conflict strengthened by these unusual pairings as the Frasers embrace their neighbors. It’s a move that will prove imperative when it comes time to set this peaceful existence alight.

No Villains in Sight

“Temperance” relies almost entirely on dialogue. This episode intends to establish the Christies as more than antagonists, and rightfully so as creating an empathetic villain is how this show will give weight to their actions.

You have to commend a series that understands the key to rich conflict is to establish the humanity of both sides no matter how extreme their ideals are. The subject matter is strengthened when you discuss arguments from both sides.

By pairing Tom Christie with Claire, Outlander once again establishes what it does best — the bad guys.

It’s enjoyable to watch Claire volley Tom’s skewed perceptions of women back at him with such precision. Still, it’s even more fascinating to see Tom consider these notions and ponder on the ideas with her. It gives the illusion that he can change and that he’s not as wicked as his ideology.

Until the episode cleverly slips in a clip of him whipping his daughter with the hand Claire healed — oh, the symbolism there!

It’s going to make future betrayals rather spicey. And yet, I hope we see more of Claire and Tom debating witchcraft. It’s strangely compelling and not something that should be enjoyable, but here we are.

What is not compelling is the little side hustle Malva’s orchestrating.

Of course, this is by design, but Ian is a sweet, swaggery cinnamon roll and he doesn’t need the headache. You have to respect this girl’s drive, though, making moves on the entire Fraser fam without even breaking a sweat.

The episode portrays Malva as an innocent girl who enjoys long walks in the woods and has a heart of gold while cleverly distancing her from Claire. Sadly, her devious stare gives her away.

She’s not playing the field as convincingly as her father but will undoubtedly be a force to reckon with thanks to the groundwork “Temperance” pins on an unknowing Jamie.

Fergus & Marsali

No character needed an olive branch more than Fergus Fraser. The man is not exactly likable for putting his hands on his wife, and this downward slope will only lead him further into unforgiving territory.

Yet, despite Outlander refusing to back down on his trajectory, the show will give Fergus the screentime to explore his actions properly. It is generosity that benefits the entire Fraser clan.

Fergus’s emotional heart-to-heart with Claire reveals a layer to his time in the brothel that blows his situation open.

Offering sincerity in the place of justification is how you give flawed characters depth. That coupled with César Domboy’s ugly, emotional recounting knocks this scene out of the water.

Hearing the pain in Fergus’ voice as he speaks of his history with a dwarf friend is all that’s needed to really embrace his struggle with open arms.

It’s commendable to see Outlander lead us into the episode suggesting Fergus is disgusted by his newborn. When, in fact, he is terrified for the future Henri-Christian will endure.

It’s an exceptionally empathetic discussion to bring the story full-circle to Fergus’ misplaced grief over not being man enough to protect his family. It also gives much more weight to his confrontation with Jamie later on.

But it’s ultimately Marsali that gives Fergus’ time in the spotlight the most validity.

Marsali has seen abusive relationships firsthand, and knowing she is now in one with the man she loves is heartbreaking. But like everything this woman does, she does with her head held high and a phenomenal actress pulling the strings.

When Marsali boldly tells Fergus she killed Lionel, her delivery produces goose-bumps. She isn’t going to be ashamed of her bravery, not for the sake of her husband, and damn if that’s not one of the most moving moments of this premise.

A Promising Future

Rounding out this episode are some incredible heart-pounding heroics from Roger, who continues to make himself a valuable asset to the plot. And like most of the characters throughout this episode, his best work lies in his dialogue.

“Temperance” presents itself as a linchpin for the rest of the season, crafting dynamics and threading storylines that will prove immensely useful in the episodes to come.

The talkative installment is backed by a strong cast and a stellar script from all fronts, but it is ultimately the choice to have Marsali and Fergus take center stage that shines brightest.

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Outlander airs Sundays at 9/8c on Starz.

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