The story of the Franklin Expedition is one of hubris, bravado, and the British Empire's relentless and foolhardy pursuit to conquer the unknown, at any and all costs. It is a time in history where humanity was reminded that they don't get to be the hero in their own story, and that there's a price in going "thousands of miles to a place that wants you dead".

Francis Crozier and his crew ended up never finding the Northwest Passage (except for Blanky at the end), but the series shows you that each men were able to forge their own meaning from the expedition. Some were in pursuit of eternal fame and glory, some found brotherhood and comfort in their shared misery, others came to terms with their troubled past.

Crozier wasn't rescued in either the book, the TV series, or even in real life because it was strongly suggested that if he were still alive, he did not want to be found. He, like the Northwest Passage, belongs to no man or nation, and can only be found by those who do not wish to conquer them (the Inuits).

There is a no happy or satisfying ending to be had here, and that this expedition and this series still captures our imagination is a testament to its enduring intrigue and mystery.