[s2e16] The Miller's Daughter Page

The rivalry between Cora and Eva explains Cora’s later hatred for Snow White.

Because the heart was "cursed" by the candle, returning it to Cora doesn't save her; it transfers Gold's impending death to her. Cora dies in Regina’s arms, briefly experiencing love for her daughter one last time before passing away. [S2E16] The Miller's Daughter

Mary Margaret (Snow White) discovers that the only way to save Gold—and stop Cora—is to use the . The candle can save one person but requires another life in exchange. Mary Margaret, manipulated by the situation and her desire to protect her family, uses the candle on Cora’s heart (which is stored in the vault) and then tricks Regina into putting the heart back into Cora’s body. The rivalry between Cora and Eva explains Cora’s

At the last moment, Cora realizes that love is a weakness that will keep her from power. She rips out her own heart to remain cold and calculating, choosing to marry Prince Henry and become royalty rather than flee with Rumplestiltskin. Mary Margaret (Snow White) discovers that the only

This episode is critical for understanding the "Nature vs. Nurture" theme of the show. It highlights:

The flashback reveals a young, impoverished Cora working as a miller's daughter. After being humiliated by Princess Eva (Snow White's mother), Cora lies to King Xavier, claiming she can spin straw into gold.

This marks the first time Snow White commits a dark act, causing her own heart to begin to darken. Critical Reception and Trivia