American Masters: Season 2
Season 2 Lore Primer
Key plot threads, lore context, and character stakes you need to remember before diving into this season.
- Directly follows the overarching narrative developments of American Masters Season 1.
- Faction dynamics and core character alliances shift under escalating external stakes.
- Crucial mysteries introduced previously reach key turning points and narrative reckonings.
- Sets up serialized story arcs that build directly toward the climactic season finale.
Episode Guide
Season 2 Progress Shield
Isaac in America: A Journey with Isaac Bashevis Singer
Jul 6, 1987
A profile of the literary work of Isaac Bashevis Singer and his influence on preserving Jewish culture and the Yiddish language.
Directed by William Wyler
Jul 13, 1987
A retrospective on the rich legacy of cinema directed by Wyler with clips and commentary.
Rubinstein Remembered
Jul 20, 1987
A trip through the life and works of the piano virtuoso Arthur Rubinstein conducted by his son John.
Nik and Murray
Jul 27, 1987
A story of two talented personalities, Alwin Nikolais and Murray Louis, and their collaborations in the world of dance.
George Gershwin Remembered
Aug 24, 1987
The music of the unique American master composer (as well as his brother Ira) with insights from his collaborators and friends.
Maurice Sendak: Mon Cher Papa
Aug 31, 1987
An installment that shows the author and illustrator at work staging a production of a Mozart opera.
The Negro Ensemble Company
Sep 14, 1987
An ode to the work of the African American theater group founded in the late 60s and its impact on the performing arts.
Unanswered Prayers: The Life and Times of Truman Capote
Sep 21, 1987
The evolution of the novelist and his impact on other artists and American culture.
The Ten-Year Lunch: The Wit and Legend of the Algonquin Round Table
Sep 28, 1987
A history of the famed social gathering of leaders, intellectuals, writers, and artists.
Buster Keaton: Hard Act to Follow
Nov 18, 1987
The story of the silent-era star who brought brilliance and originality to physical comedy.