Lizzie Borden Acquitted in 'Monster' Episode 7: The Trial of the Century

Netflix's "Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story" delves into the trial of Lizzie Borden in its seventh episode, titled "The Trial of the Century." The episode portrays Borden's time in jail as relatively comfortable, with prison staff eventually facilitating her return to house arrest. Her sister, Emma, meanwhile, continues to demonstrate her support, placing cuttings of Lizzie's cherry trees around the house in a symbolic gesture of hope.

As Borden's narrative of the day of the murders proves inconsistent, the focus shifts to her trial performance. Actress Nance O'Neill, who has taken on a role in Borden's defense, coaches Lizzie on courtroom demeanor, including how to enter, sit, and react to evidence. O'Neill is depicted acquiring crucial information from a bailiff through a romantic encounter.

During the proceedings, Emma Borden testifies on Lizzie's behalf, asserting her sister's innocence and casting suspicion on an unidentified "pale man" seen near the house. This testimony is presented as an effort to protect Lizzie, potentially influenced by Emma's own guilt over past treatment of her sister.

Ultimately, the episode suggests that societal sexism played a significant role in the verdict. The jury is shown to be unwilling to believe that a woman could commit such a brutal crime. The episode concludes with Lizzie's acquittal, which is announced after the jurors deliberate briefly and then play cards for an hour to maintain appearances.

Following the verdict, Lizzie expresses her intentions to create an animal sanctuary, a move that draws a comparison to Carole Baskin. The episode ends with Lizzie celebrating her freedom, accompanied by music, while her maid, Bridget, remains absent and appears only in hallucinations, prompting a reflection on the reliability of the narrative presented throughout the series.