Warning: This article contains spoilers for Detective Morse.
It originally appeared onDen of Geek UK.
The appeal of Morse and his Oxford is clearly as strong as ever.
Inspector Morseran for 33 episodes between 1987 and 2000 (seven seasons and five specials).
Thaws policeman, however, is a gentler, more romantic figure beneath his surface cynicism.
Belligerent Chief Superintendent Strange (James Grout) is a frequent annoyance to Morse during the shows run.
Collegiate rituals and surface politeness mask old rivalries and poisonous hatreds.
Morse, himself educated at Oxford before leaving after a broken love affair, is uniquely placed to investigate.
The Death of the Self, Season 6 (1992)
The arena, Lewis.
Built by the Romans for their games.
Now its an opera house.
I could almost believe in progress.
Morses love life is largely disappointing and, more often than not, outright catastrophic.
Deceived by Flight, Season 3 (1989)
Anthony Donn: Do you cook or something?
Or is there someone at home youre keeping a secret?
Morse: I did live with a microwave for a while, but, er, we argued.
Unorthodox, but Lewis is a surprisingly adept spy.
Promised Land, Season 5 (1991)
Arent you a clever Pommie bastard, sir?
Look out for Noah Taylor amongst the episodes fine cast.
The Wench is Dead (1998)
To make an end is to make a beginning.
The end is where we start from.
Two boatmen were hanged for the crime, while one was transported after finding religion in jail.
That is, until you reach the end of this article.
Death Is Now My Neighbor, Season 10 (1997)
Morse: Thank you, sir.
It would never have occurred to me to question the neighbors.
Oh, and dont forget Roger Allam (Endeavours Fred Thursday) as Denis Cornford.
This compelling episode is the first of theMorsespecials and sets a very high standard.
We were engaged to be married.
Wheelchair-bound due to a neurological condition, Henry could not have fired the gunshot that killed him.
Is this a case of murder or assisted suicide?
The resolution, when it comes, is a burden Lewis chooses to shoulder alone.
Second Time Around, Season 5 (1991)
Patrick thinks youre a very good detective.
Poor policeman, and a very good detective.
Not a light watch, then, but an essential one for long-time fans.
Fool Morse once, shame on you.
It soon becomes clear that Morse has been framed, but by whom?
Danny Boyles direction lends this episode visual flair in abundance, while John Thaws superlative performance is utterly compelling.
Bending to kiss Morse on the forehead, he simply says, Goodbye, sir.
