Lessons in Chemistry is a period drama TV series inspired by author Bonnie Garmus’ own life and the experiences of her mother’s generation in the 1960s. The show follows the story of Elizabeth Zott, a scientist who loses her job at a lab due to her pregnancy and societal pressures. Despite facing gender discrimination and societal norms, Elizabeth finds a new path as a TV cooking show host, using the platform to teach women how to be self-reliant and independent thinkers.
The show is based on Garmus’ bestselling novel of the same name, but it’s also rooted in her personal experiences and those of her mother. Garmus has said that she created Elizabeth as a tribute to her mother, who was a nurse in the 1960s and ended up staying at home to raise their four children. The novel and TV series explore the harsh realities of gender discrimination in the sciences and how women like Elizabeth had to work around these biases to achieve their goals.
Garmus drew inspiration from real-life figures such as Julia Child, Alma Kitchell, and Dione Lucas, who influenced the character of Elizabeth Zott. The show’s scriptwriter, Elissa Karasik, said that Julia Child’s influential cooking shows, which focused on teaching women how to be perfect wives and mothers, were a key influence on the character.
Despite being a work of fiction, Lessons in Chemistry has a strong connection to reality. Bonnie Garmus herself experienced rejection and struggles as a novelist, facing over 90 rejections before her first book became a bestseller. Her own story of perseverance is reflected in Elizabeth’s determination to succeed despite the roadblocks she faces.
Some changes were made from the novel’s story, including the love story with Elizabeth’s colleague Calvin, which was toned down in the TV series. The book also features a different beginning, with Elizabeth as a depressed mother in 1961, whereas the series opens with her in the middle of her stardom. Other characters, such as Harriet Sloane and Elizabeth’s dog Six-Thirty, underwent significant changes in the transition from book to TV series.
Overall, Lessons in Chemistry is a powerful drama that explores the challenges women faced in the 1960s and the resilience of women like Elizabeth who refused to give up their dreams.
