Overall, I like this production a lot, but I do not always share your POV. Quoting you: "In the words of the ugly black-hearted Heo Yoon Ok (Jung Shi Ah) – who’s perfectly getting on my nerves and grossing me out - slaves are talking beasts. They have no will whatsoever. They’re beaten up, ordered around, raped, and killed. The scene where the maid is killed because she refuses to abort her baby –who’s her master’s baby - sums it all too terribly". Yes, she is getting on my nerves as well. But as far as the quote, she is also mirroring what In Yub believed in the beginning of the drama. And also "In the heart-wrenching scene when In Yub is dragged to slavery, and she is taking her anger out on Moo Myeong she screams asking, ‘’how can a human being do this to another human being?’’ Moo Myeong gives her a reply that sends the chills down my spine, ’’You are no longer a human being; but a slave.’’ - Moo Myeong also reminded her of the first time they met, when because of her Dan-Ji was beaten severely, and also the fact his own back was not good enough to carry her highness. It's like they say, "If you want to know what it's like to be blind - put a rag over your face and experience it.." - now the high and mighty In-Yub can experience it all for herself.
Love this drama. Every episode flies by in the seeming blink of an eye. In other words, there is NEVER a dull or wasted moment in this show. Don't take your eyes off of it or you may miss a crucial piece of information. I love how In Yub's ex-fiance/husband continues to fight to save her. It is such a refreshing change from most dramas where they either turn into creeps or just give up. I fear his battle will end with him being killed though. On the other side of the coin, if she proves her father innocent of the charges, her status will be reinstated and they could get back together. What are the chances of that happening? Also, if she stays a servant, will Moo Myeong ever have enough strength of will to fight for her as his mate. We are now at the halfway point. I hope the tension continues and we don't see a lot of filler. There is still so much story to cover! I can't wait to see how this ends.
The best thing about this drama, apart from the story itself, is that it's only 20 episodes! Anyway, I would love to read that article about gisaeng if you ever get to write one :)
Thanks for this great article. I am enjoying this drama a lot too at the moment although it breaks my heart to see how slaves were treated at that time.
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Great presentation!
Do you remember the Silk Carpet's scene ? Daebak !!
Great article for a good drama :)