Following a near-death experience in the previous episode, Peter becomes uncharacteristically open to Catherine’s progressive ideas. He expresses a desire to be "the most loved ruler in history" and briefly embraces her suggestions to introduce to the Russian court.
: Feeling his influence threatened by the rise of secular "science," the Archbishop attempts to dissuade Peter from these new ideas, ultimately causing the Emperor to reconsider his progressive stance. Analysis of Themes
: She finds a rare window of influence over Peter, attempting to mold him into a leader "for the people". However, she remains cautious, aware of how quickly his temperament can change.
: His sudden interest in his subjects' well-being leads to erratic behavior, such as walking around the palace naked to ask staff for suggestions on how to improve things.
The title refers to the sixth episode of the first season of the Hulu original series The Great . This satirical historical drama, which first aired on May 15, 2020, uses the eponymous parachute as a central symbol for Enlightenment-era progress and the shifting power dynamics between Catherine the Great and her husband, Emperor Peter III. Plot Summary: A New Lease on Life