Bridgerton Fans Hate the Most Likable Character Now, And They Have a Reason

Bridgerton 's main characters are people with a complex internal organization, who, contrary to the foundations of the patriarchal era, prefer to build their own destiny on their own. However, each of them chooses different ways to achieve their goals.

In the first season, Eloise Bridgerton appears as a bright intellectual who refuses to accept the traditional role of women in society. She actively resists her impending marriage and lavish balls, preferring to spend time in the company of her favorite books and older brothers. In addition, Eloise is the only one who succeeds in uncovering the secret identity of Lady Whistledown.

Eloise's Actions Made Some Bridgerton Fans Question Her Moral Compass

For all her virtues, however, the middle Bridgerton sister can be sarcastic and even rude, especially toward Daphne, who does not share her feminist ambitions. At the same time, in the second season, Eloise falls into the first trap of patriarchy: she abandons her best friend for a boy from the publishing house whom she likes.

And that is why some fans have turned away from the previously most beloved character – they condemn the way Eloise treated Penelope, who tried to protect her friend to the very end.

“Penelope did what she did with zero ill-will and only did it after exhausting other options to save Eloise from the situation she got herself into. [...] At every turn Penelope did nothing but try to protect Eloise from her own stupid choices and then she got some consequences,” Reddit user justhangingout420.

Penelope (Almost) Never Acted Out of Malice

And the fans' condemnation is pretty justified. Penelope is the middle and unloved daughter in the family, long resigned to the role of old maid. However, behind the image of a timid and insecure lady, there is an intellectually savvy young woman with a keen sense of justice and great ambitions.

Penelope never misses an opportunity to laugh at pompous aristocrats, but she does so with irony rather than malice. When it comes to the happiness and safety of her loved ones, Penelope shows her best qualities. For example, she gives some of the money Lady Whistledown earns to her penniless mother.

Some viewers see a shadow of envy in Eloise's behavior after revealing Lady Whistledown's identity – throughout the series, it was Eloise who was the loudest voice for women's emancipation, always dreaming of real work and independence. But suddenly an unexpected picture opens up before her – her best friend turns out to be much more successful in achieving Eloise's goals.

Eloise was so preoccupied with her own problems and the pursuit of Lady Whistledown that she failed to notice her friend's suffering. The fight between Penelope and Eloise was unexpectedly difficult and sad – but realistic.

Bridgerton Season 3 Part 1 Release Date

We will find out how the relationship between the ex-friends will develop very soon – the first part of the third season of Bridgerton will be released on Netflix on May 16.