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.

The episode was a hit, drawing approximately 7.37 million viewers during its initial broadcast as tracked by TV by the Numbers . Where to Watch Streaming: You can watch the full series on Disney+.

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.

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.

In the present day, Cora and Regina are on the hunt for the Dark One’s dagger to control Mr. Gold, who is dying from a poisoned wound inflicted by Hook in New York.

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

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

Daughter - [s2e16] The Miller's

The episode was a hit, drawing approximately 7.37 million viewers during its initial broadcast as tracked by TV by the Numbers . Where to Watch Streaming: You can watch the full series on Disney+. [S2E16] The Miller's Daughter

In the present day, Cora and Regina are on the hunt for the Dark One’s dagger to control Mr. Gold, who is dying from a poisoned wound inflicted by Hook in New York.

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

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