#Spoiler#
The moment Shiro decided to cut his hands, I realized there couldn't be a happy ending. Destroying yourself for someone you love isn't love, and both leads literally did nothing else but destroy themselves afterwards. Maria thought she could sacrifice herself to save him, she didn't value herself or her life, she just miraculously endured mistreatment and humiliation, she even had a miscarriage, but was still very tolerant and forgiving of Shiro. I tried to ignore it since she eventually chose to part from him and marry Kamiya (not the love of her life, yes but at least someone who will respect and value her), but WTF did she suddenly decide to jump off the helicopter?? that was the most stupid decision ever, and I guess her punishment was to stay stuck with Shiro forever. I absolutely feel sorry ONLY for Kamiya!!

After having high hopes for this drama, I think the plot is just a bummer! Sure, I'm all for dark and melodramatic romance and heartbreaking endings, and I know that was the era of exaggerated tragedy, but in the end, I couldn't sympathize with the characters or feel the romance anymore. I wish the writer would have at least handled the ending better. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the mood, the actors, and their performances, especially Maria. I was honestly surprised at how raw and natural their acting seemed compared to contemporary J-drama. I also appreciate that many side stories and characters were equally, if not more, interesting, like that of Nana and Jun. I'd still recommend it if you're into watching classic melodrama.