American Horror Story

10 Best Episodes of American Horror Story - Season 2

Step into the twisted world of "American Horror Story," where each season unveils a new nightmare waiting to unfold. From haunted houses to chilling asylums, bewitched covens to eerie cults, this anthology series keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its unique blend of horror and drama. Since its premiere in 2011, "American Horror Story" has captivated audiences with its dark and mysterious storylines, earning a dedicated fan base along the way.

With 13 seasons under its belt, "American Horror Story" continues to push the boundaries of the horror genre, exploring a wide range of terrifying scenarios that are sure to send shivers down your spine. Whether you're a fan of supernatural hauntings or psychological thrillers, this show has something for everyone. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world where every season is a new nightmare, each more chilling than the last.

Join us as we dive into the best episodes of "American Horror Story," where we'll revisit the most spine-tingling moments that have kept us glued to our screens over the years. From shocking twists to unforgettable performances, these episodes showcase the true essence of what makes this series a must-watch for any horror enthusiast. So grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and prepare to be scared as we take a closer look at the standout moments from this iconic show.

Written by Sophie and last updated on apr 26, 2024.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

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American Horror Story - S2E1

#13 - Welcome to Briarcliff (Season 2 - Episode 1)

Terrifying evils blur the boundaries between reality and insanity at the Briarcliff Manor.

The episode was rated 7.70 from 2326 votes.

American Horror Story - S2E12

#12 - Continuum (Season 2 - Episode 12)

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A deadly new inmate threatens Sister Jude's chance of release; Grace's obsession with the aliens turns violent.

The episode was rated 7.80 from 1550 votes.

American Horror Story - S2E3

#11 - Nor'easter (Season 2 - Episode 3)

A violent storm allows a group of patients to plan a daring escape; Sister Jude is haunted by her past.

The episode was rated 7.86 from 1817 votes.

American Horror Story - S2E2

#10 - Tricks and Treats (Season 2 - Episode 2)

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An exorcist is called to Briarcliff to help save a troubled farm boy; Sister Jude's darkest secret is revealed.

The episode was rated 7.88 from 1954 votes.

American Horror Story - S2E6

#9 - The Origins of Monstrosity (Season 2 - Episode 6)

A mysterious little girl is abandoned at Briarcliff; the Monsignor makes a Faustian pact with Dr. Arden; the origin of Bloody Face is revealed.

The episode was rated 7.88 from 1710 votes.

American Horror Story - S2E8

#8 - Unholy Night (Season 2 - Episode 8)

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A murderous Santa wreaks havoc on Briarcliff; Sister Jude faces off with the devil; Arden has a shocking encounter in the death chute.

The episode was rated 7.89 from 1669 votes.

American Horror Story - S2E7

#7 - Dark Cousin (Season 2 - Episode 7)

In the chilling episode "Dark Cousin" of American Horror Story, the eerie atmosphere at Briarcliff takes a sinister turn as Sister Mary Eunice encounters a terrifying dark angel within the walls of the institution. The tension escalates as her fear and paranoia grow, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats wondering what malevolent forces are at play in the asylum.

Meanwhile, Kit's determination to reunite with Grace leads him to make a daring and risky move, setting the stage for a heart-pounding confrontation that will keep fans of the show eagerly anticipating the outcome. As the plot thickens and characters face their darkest fears and desires, the episode delves deeper into the twisted world of American Horror Story, captivating audiences with its blend of horror, suspense, and supernatural elements.

With "Dark Cousin" delivering a gripping and intense storyline, fans are left wondering what twists and turns await them in the next installment. Will the show maintain this high level of intrigue and suspense, or will the stakes be raised even higher in the episodes to come? Viewers are in for a rollercoaster ride of emotions and thrills as American Horror Story continues to push boundaries and keep audiences hooked with its unique blend of horror and drama.

The episode was rated 7.89 from 1702 votes.

American Horror Story - S2E11

#6 - Spilt Milk (Season 2 - Episode 11)

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In the spine-chilling episode "Spilt Milk" of American Horror Story, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions as Grace reveals shocking details to Kit about the aliens' disturbing experiments on Alma. The revelation leaves Kit grappling with profound devastation, setting the stage for a haunting exploration of the unknown.

Meanwhile, Dr. Thredson's world is turned upside down when an unexpected visitor arrives, throwing his carefully constructed plans into disarray. As the episode unfolds, tensions rise and the unexpected twists keep viewers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating what will happen next.

Amidst the chaos, the Monsignor takes drastic measures to silence Jude, showcasing the dark and twisted lengths to which characters will go in this gripping narrative. With each scene filled with suspense and intrigue, "Spilt Milk" delivers an unforgettable viewing experience that solidifies American Horror Story as a must-watch series for fans of the macabre and mysterious.

The episode was rated 7.91 from 1593 votes.

American Horror Story - S2E4

#5 - I Am Anne Frank (1) (Season 2 - Episode 4)

In the chilling episode "I Am Anne Frank (1)" of American Horror Story, the layers of darkness within Briarcliff are peeled back to reveal the haunting past of Dr. Arden. As a new patient arrives, Arden's sinister history is exposed, painting a disturbing picture of the asylum's operations. The intensity of the narrative reaches new heights, immersing viewers in a world where the line between sanity and madness blurs with each revelation.

Meanwhile, Kit delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding Grace's admission to Briarcliff, uncovering shocking truths that challenge his understanding of the asylum's inhabitants. The intertwining of characters' fates adds a complexity to the storyline, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats as they navigate the web of secrets and lies within the institution's walls. As the plot thickens, the sense of unease grows, setting the stage for a riveting continuation of the season's narrative.

With its unflinching portrayal of horror and the depths of human depravity, "I Am Anne Frank (1)" showcases American Horror Story at its most visceral and unsettling. The episode's ability to elicit such strong emotional responses from viewers is a testament to the show's mastery of the macabre. As the stakes escalate and tensions mount, the series propels forward on a trajectory of terror, promising a relentless descent into the darkest recesses of the human psyche.

The episode was rated 7.93 from 1781 votes.

American Horror Story - S2E9

#4 - The Coat Hanger (Season 2 - Episode 9)

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In the chilling episode "The Coat Hanger" of American Horror Story, the tension escalates as the Monsignor makes a surprising choice to mentor an unexpected individual. This twist adds a layer of mystery and intrigue, leaving viewers wondering about the Monsignor's true intentions and the consequences of his actions.

Meanwhile, Lana's quest for justice takes a significant turn when she obtains a crucial piece of evidence that could potentially clear Kit's name. This development not only keeps the audience on the edge of their seats but also raises questions about the true nature of the accusations against Kit and the lengths Lana is willing to go to seek the truth.

Additionally, the episode takes a supernatural turn when Dr. Arden is faced with a mind-boggling event that challenges his beliefs and rationality. This miraculous occurrence throws a curveball into the already twisted narrative of the show, leaving viewers captivated and eager to uncover the secrets lurking within the walls of the institution. "The Coat Hanger" is a riveting installment that showcases the dark, unpredictable nature of American Horror Story, keeping fans hooked with its gripping storyline and unexpected revelations.

The episode was rated 7.96 from 1616 votes.

American Horror Story - S2E5

#3 - I Am Anne Frank (2) (Season 2 - Episode 5)

In this gripping episode of American Horror Story, titled "I Am Anne Frank (2)," Sister Jude takes bold action by enlisting a renowned Nazi hunter to build a case against the sinister Dr. Arden. The tension rises as secrets unravel and unexpected alliances form, paving the way for a dramatic showdown that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats.

As the story unfolds, Kit's shocking confession adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, keeping audiences guessing at every turn. The writing in this episode shines with its clever twists and turns, delivering a truly spectacular viewing experience that showcases horror storytelling at its finest. With a 10/10 rating from fans, this installment proves to be a standout moment in the series, leaving a lasting impact on all who witness its chilling events.

The unmasking of Bloody Face in the thrilling conclusion of the episode delivers not just one, but two jaw-dropping plot twists that leave viewers reeling. The revelation of the true identity behind the notorious killer adds a new dimension to the already intense storyline, demonstrating the show's ability to keep audiences captivated with its masterful storytelling. "I Am Anne Frank (2)" is a prime example of American Horror Story's ability to deliver shocking moments that defy expectations and solidify its reputation as a top-tier horror series.

The episode was rated 8.05 from 1744 votes.

American Horror Story - S2E10

#2 - The Name Game (Season 2 - Episode 10)

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In this thrilling episode of American Horror Story titled "The Name Game," the tension reaches new heights as the Monsignor confronts the Devil in a battle of good versus evil. Viewers are taken on a gripping journey as the forces of darkness clash with those of light, leaving everyone on the edge of their seats.

Meanwhile, Dr. Arden's experiments take a dark and unexpected turn, leading to a shocking conclusion that will leave viewers gasping in disbelief. The twisted world of Briarcliff Asylum delves deeper into madness, blurring the lines between science and horror in a way that only American Horror Story can deliver.

And just when you thought things couldn't get any more intense, Dr. Thredson facilitates a surprising reunion for Kit, adding another layer of complexity to an already intricate storyline. The emotional rollercoaster of this episode is further heightened by a memorable musical number that adds a touch of whimsy to the darkness, creating a truly unforgettable viewing experience. Get ready to be captivated by this episode that has fans begging for more.

The episode was rated 8.07 from 1678 votes.

American Horror Story - S2E13

#1 - Madness Ends (Season 2 - Episode 13)

In the gripping finale of American Horror Story's "Madness Ends," we witness Johnny's determination to carry on his father's chilling legacy, leading to a heart-wrenching and intense climax. The emotional depth in this episode resonates strongly with viewers, offering a rare glimpse into the intricate web of the characters' intertwined fates. As Johnny navigates the darkness within him, the tension escalates, keeping us on the edge of our seats until the very end.

Lana emerges as a formidable force, spearheading the efforts to bring closure to the haunting Briarcliff once and for all. Her unwavering resolve and strength drive the narrative forward, making her a central figure in the episode's impactful conclusion. The culmination of her journey is both empowering and poignant, adding layers of complexity to the overall storyline that captivate and stir the audience's emotions.

While some may have mixed feelings about certain character arcs, the overall consensus on the season's finale is one of satisfaction and intrigue. The blend of horror, emotion, and resolution in "Madness Ends" sets a high bar for future seasons, leaving viewers eager to uncover what twisted tales American Horror Story will unravel next. With a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5, this episode proves to be a memorable and compelling conclusion to a season filled with unexpected twists and unforgettable moments.

The episode was rated 8.24 from 1643 votes.

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