As “1883” nears the end of its first season, viewers get a better sense of the Duttons’ life philosophy that is shaped by their journey. In the eighth episode, the Duttons and the caravan they travel with face a major crossroads in their journey and their lives. Shea, James and Elsa all have to make important choices that will change the course of their lives and lead them down a different path than the one they took. If you want to catch up on the episode’s events and character choices, here’s everything you need to know about the “1883” Episode 8 ending! SPOILERS AHEAD!
1883 episode 8 recap
“The Weep of Surrender” is the title of the eighth episode of “1883”. It opens with the caravan recovering from the recent storm. The group camped in Native American territory and made no progress on their journey for the past few days. Before they can move forward, the group must reassess their trip, the risks and the destination. Sam invites people from his tribe to trade with the wagon campers so they can get the necessary supplies. Comanche warriors, the group receives some horses and ammunition.
Soon, Charlie separates from the caravan, but not before advising Shea to alter the group’s route due to the dangers on the way ahead. Shea decides to hold the caravan at a camp near the tribe’s base. Sam and Elsa’s romance blossoms and the two spend time together. In the fields, Sam teaches Elsa how to kill a buffalo. After Elsa kills the buffalo, Sam reveals that her tribe believes that eating a buffalo’s heart imparts strength from the animal to the person. However, Margaret worries about Elsa’s growing closeness to Sam. On the other hand, Sam and Elsa discuss getting married.
Meanwhile, Shea suggests to the immigrants that it is in their best interest to settle in Denver. However, the immigrants are not happy with the change of plan. While Shea’s decision has some merit, immigrants aren’t entirely convinced it’s the right choice. James steps in and offers to drive the immigrants to Oregon. The immigrants agree to follow James, and leadership of the group is transferred from Shea to James. Shea considers leaving the band but is convinced otherwise by Thomas. Sam asks James for Elsa’s hand in marriage. Elsa persists and James reluctantly agrees. However, Elsa must now decide if she wants to stay with Sam’s tribe or continue the journey with her family.
1883 End of episode 8: What does Elsa decide?
James, Elsa, and Shea all face tough choices in the episode. While Shea and James make their decisions fairly quickly, young Elsa takes time to understand her feelings. The climax of Elsa’s inner turmoil coincides with that of the episode, and we get an indication of Elsa’s future. Since embarking on the journey with her family, Elsa has grown into a capable young woman and is recognized as a cowboy within the camp due to her skills. After suffering heartbreak over Ennis’ death, Elsa grows bolder and wishes to chart her own path in life. She falls in love with Sam, who twice saves her from almost certain death. Elsa believes that God sent Sam into her life. The young lovers wish to marry and, despite the objections of Elsa’s parents, obtain their approval.
However, despite their love for each other, the duo face a challenge to start a new life together. In the end, Elsa decides she wants to complete the journey she started. Elsa acknowledges that the path she is following has helped her grow. She’s always wanted to explore the world previously unknown to her, and she can’t just settle down with Sam even though she loves him. On the other hand, Sam is bound by loyalty to his tribe and wishes to help defend their land. Therefore, he cannot accompany Elsa on her journey. Eventually, the couple decide to continue in separate directions but agree to reunite soon. Although they don’t have a ceremony, Sam and Elsa consider themselves husband and wife in their hearts. Thus, after saying goodbye in tears, Elsa refuses to feel weakened by leaving behind her lover and courageously continues her journey in the American Far West.
Read more: 1883 episode 7 recap and ending, explained
