Season 1 Episode 5 - Bart the general

This episode is one of my favorites from season 1. There are some great cultural references, moments of controversy and some Simpsons oddities.

Firstly, as the episode was running long, no chalkboard or couch gag were included. It had already been notes that the shows intro was unusually long and indeed, later seasons would see a shortened version used frequently. This episode simply cuts to an exterior shot of
742 Evergreen terrace.

The next point if interest is the introduction of two staple characters, Herman and more importantly, Nelson Muntz. Herman is amusing enough, with his obsession over military history and often sadistic turn of phrase, but it is Nelson, the school bully who provides the show with a truly deep character- one capable of heartless victimization one minute, loyal friendship the next. The product of a broken home Nelson embodies what may be termed Trailer Trash America. Living with his alcoholic mother, pining for his run away father we see Nelson presented initially as nothing but a bully, yet by the end of the episode, he and Bart appear to be becoming friends. The relationship between the two is never really cemented and Nelsons many facets provide the writers with an excellent character to work with.

THis episode also did much to promote Bart as the shows superstar. Whilst many fans now regard Homer as the star, in 1990 it was Bart and 'Bartmania' that secured the shows success. He appeal of Bart in this episode is his fragility, resourcefulness and ultimately, his humanity and ability to forgive. At numerous times across the seasons the writers let see through the bratty exterior and this episode perfectly balances the rebel with the thoughtful boy.

You have to love the references to classic Vietnam war films in this episode, as well as the writers middle finger to the censors which came through grandpa simpsons letter of complaint to a bridal mag. The censor did not want the phrase gamut jewels to go at at prime time, but it did anyway.

Finally, Bart's fourth wall breaking monologue at the end condemning all but three wars, and one of those is Star Wars is a lovely touch

4/5 in my humble opinion.