The participants praise the final change from comedy to a serious portrayal of soldiers going over the top. Alex describes using the scene in teaching. That reaction coexists with criticism that the series reinforces misleading stereotypes about the First World War. The discussion distinguishes the fictional Melchett from the show's separate portrayal of Haig. It then returns to Haig's contested reputation and the political arguments used to explain why he remained in command. Admiration for the scene's emotional effect is therefore separate from treating its characterizations as historical evidence.
Notable Point · 11:23:45-11:29:39
Blackadder's finale and the limits of historical caricature
The finale is discussed as powerful television alongside objections to its historical stereotypes.