Bridgerton Fans Ask a Difficult Question: Is It Wrong to Hate Marina?
A misunderstood heroine may not be as disgusting as many people assume.
Based on Julia Quinn's bestselling books, Netflix's romantic series transports viewers into the enthralling world of fictional Regency-era England. Here, young and beautiful aristocrats flirt and dance, seemingly preoccupied solely with matters of the heart. Characters who struggle financially are few and far between, even though that is exactly the kind of issues that most people would have been painfully aware of in the 19th century.
One such rare character with money problems is Marina Cane.
Initially introduced as Penelope's distant cousin, Marina arrives in London seeking a rich husband. Her debut at the ball catches the attention of numerous suitors, including Colin Bridgerton. However, her dreamlike existence is short-lived as she soon discovers she is pregnant from a previous relationship.
Despite this revelation, Marina resolves to marry Colin without telling him of her predicament to secure a stable future for herself and her unborn child.
This decision earned her the disdain of many fans. But is such animosity warranted?
Many fans don't think it is.
While Marina's choice to mislead Colin is undoubtedly deplorable, her motivations are grounded in necessity.
Born into a family of modest means, she relies on the generosity of her Featherington relatives. Bearing a child out of wedlock would have condemned her to a life of labour and deprivation. Driven by fear for her child's future, Marina lies to Colin by omission, and while her choice is certainly wrong, her motives should at least temper the harsh judgement.
Ultimately, Marina finds someone willing to care for her and her child, but happiness eludes her. As fans speculate about the possibility of her taking her own life in the upcoming third season, it becomes apparent that Marina deserves compassion rather than gratuitous hatred.