The Final Plan: Baldrick and Blackadder's Alternative to War's Futility

In the final episode of Blackadder, Baldrick whispers a potential plan to Blackadder, hinting at a possible alternative to their grim fate. This plan, though not explicitly detailed, encapsulates the sorrow and despair of World War I, a theme deeply embedded in the series. The wording, 'cunning' in Baldrick's plan, indicates a clever trick, though Blackadder dismisses it due to his disillusionment with the war's futility.

The Plot of Disillusionment

At the end of Blackadder, Blackadder and Baldrick have both resigned themselves to their inevitable fate due to the harsh realities of World War I. The series, in its closing moments, highlights the bleakness of their situation, emphasizing the tragic nature of war. In this context, Blackadder's acceptance of his doomed fate represents the disillusionment that many soldiers experienced during the conflict.

The Unexplained Plan

Early in the final episode, Baldrick subtly mentions a plan: 'Ooh there’s a nasty splinter on that ladder sir! A bloke might hurt himself on that.' This suggestion is a clever feint, aimed at causing injury during a risky climb. By falling into the trench, a soldier might avoid incoming gunfire, dodging bullets.

The script excerpt emphasizes the pivotal nature of this moment: 'Baldrick: Ooh there’s a nasty splinter on that ladder sir! A bloke might hurt himself on that. Voice: Stand ready! everyone puts a foot forward. Baldrick: I have a plan sir.' This indicates that Baldrick believes he has a solution, but Blackadder, already succumbing to the grim realities of war, disregards it. His rejection of the idea reflects the broader disillusionment of both characters and, by extension, many soldiers during World War I.

Creative Closure

The final scene, with Baldrick's unexplained plan, the final joke without a punchline, serves as a poignant metaphor for the many lives lost in the war. It represents the lost potential of young men who sacrificed everything. The inclusion of an unresolved plan adds a layer of melancholy and sadness, perfectly capturing the series' tone.

The series' final episode ends with a raw and unflinching depiction of the madness and tragedy of World War I. While countless films and TV shows have approached war themes, few have captured the essence of disillusionment and the futility of seemingly endless conflict. Blackadder's finale stands as a testament to the unyielding human spirit, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Concluding Thoughts

Blackadder's final episode is a masterpiece of writing, employing a cleverly unexplained plan to tie together the series' themes and deliver a powerful emotional punch. Baldrick's hint at a plan, despite its ambiguity, serves as a poignant reminder of the choices and dreams that were crushed by the machine-like nature of war. The cynical world of Blackadder is not without its moments of hope, but ultimately, they are overshadowed by the grim realities of life in trench warfare.