Firstly, the writing in Season Two which depicts Matthew and Diana's time in 16th century Elizabethan England is truly extraordinary, in particular, are the extraordinary historical characterizations of Queen Elizabeth, Christopher Marlowe, Sir Walter Raleigh, Northumberland, and other characters which become important to the last season. The final scene between Matthew and Queen Elizabeth in this episode is, as far as the acting is concerned, just remarkable. The whole of season 2 is one long illumination of the example of the atrocities Matthew has committed which justifies his perception of himself as a penitent. One of the very first scenes in episode 1 of season 1 is of Matthew praying the rosary in church. I mean, the brilliance of having a vampire portrayed as such is another whole discussion . Season 2 gives the viewer a fuller understanding of the vampire's struggle with overwhelming nature of blood rage. This episode ends with an act of such intimacy between Matthew and Diana, the heart vein/ witches' kiss, that you almost have to look away. All of season 2 is beautifully written and depicted but this episode in particular is truly spectacular.
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