Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman Season 6 Episode 10

Writers Comments for "Civil Wars"

We felt that after the extremely serious stories that we've done so far this season, it was time to do a lighter episode -- but we also wanted to make sure that it was grounded in a serious subject, and that it continued the story-lines that we've been pursuing.

Having our characters sue each other for all sorts of major and minor problems seemed to be a way to have their conflicts with each other surface in a somewhat lighter way. It was also an attractive way to comment on our own highly litigious society. Historical research revealed that, surprisingly, litigation was at least as common in the 1870's as it is now.

The serious notes are struck by the ways in which people react to the lawsuits. Grace uses the law as an unconscious way of expressing her anger over Anthony's death. And the lawsuit mania gives Matthew greater experience in the practice of the law -- and makes him question whether he really wants to be a lawyer.

"Civil Wars" was a fun and challenging episode to write -- striking the right balance between the fun and serious stories was aided greatly by the work of Jerry London, the director, and by our wonderful cast.

Philip Gerson