In the 2011 European series Borgia: Faith and Fear, Season 1, Episode 3 is titled "A Sacred Vow". It centers on the intense political and personal sacrifices the Borgia family makes to secure the Papacy. Plot Overview
Following the death of Pope Innocent VIII, the city is gripped by temporary rioting that only subsides as the funeral bells toll. The episode details the strategic maneuvers of Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia during the Papal Conclave as he attempts to buy and bargain his way into the highest office. Key Character Developments
Rodrigo Borgia: Delivers a rousing eulogy for the deceased Pope while secretly campaigning to succeed him. He faces a bitter quarrel among rival cardinals, including Giuliano della Rovere.
Cesare Borgia: Returns to Pisa to meet his pregnant lover, Fiametta. In a pivotal and dark moment, Cesare believes he must sacrifice his newborn illegitimate son to God to ensure his father’s victory in the election, ultimately abandoning the infant.
Lucrezia Borgia: Sent away to an abbey in Subiaco to recover from a fever. While there, she reflects on the life of St. Petronilla and begins to use her illness and isolation strategically.
Juan Borgia: Sent to Spain by Rodrigo following the initial chaos in Rome to solidify distant family ties. Political Intrigue
The conclave is defined by heavy bribery and the exposure of scandals. Rodrigo and Giuliano della Rovere are initially tied, with each revealing letters that implicate the other in corruption or debauchery. To break the deadlock, Rodrigo uses his children's lives and future marriages as bargaining chips to secure the necessary votes.
In the third episode of the first season of The Borgias (Showtime/Bravo!), titled "The Moor", the family’s newly acquired power begins to show its first cracks of financial and political instability. Directed by Simon Cellan Jones and written by series creator Neil Jordan, this hour explores the intersection of strategic marriage, religious hypocrisy, and the cold-blooded pragmatism required to maintain the Papacy. Plot Summary: Finances and Foreign Princes
Following his expensive rise to the Papal throne, Pope Alexander VI (Rodrigo Borgia) finds his coffers dangerously low. To replenish his funds and secure vital alliances, he focuses on two primary goals:
The Marriage of Lucrezia: Rodrigo and Cesare agree that Lucrezia must marry an Italian to strengthen the Papacy’s local standing. They eventually settle on Giovanni Sforza , aiming to align with Milan and block Cardinal Della Rovere's path to France.
The Ottoman Connection: The Borgias host Prince Djem, the brother of the Ottoman Sultan. While Djem is a charming guest who bonds with Lucrezia and Juan, he represents a significant financial opportunity. The Sultan offers the Pope 400,000 ducats if Djem were to "accidentally" die in his care. The Fate of Djem
The episode's climax centers on the tragic betrayal of Prince Djem. Despite the young prince's friendly nature, Juan Borgia is tasked with his "disposal" to claim the Sultan’s bounty and fund Lucrezia’s dowry.
The Attempted Poisoning: Juan first attempts to use cantarella (a legendary Borgia poison) via a cook, but it only leaves Djem in agony rather than killing him immediately.
The Brutal Conclusion: After Micheletto informs Cesare that Djem would suffer for weeks, Cesare compels Juan to finish the job. Juan eventually smothers the prince with a pillow to ensure the payout. Key Subplots and Political Moves
Della Rovere’s Exile: Cardinal Della Rovere flees to Naples to seek allies against the Borgia Pope. He meets the ruthless Prince Alfonso, who is more interested in macabre displays of his enemies than in aiding the Cardinal’s holy crusade.
Welcoming the Displaced: In a move that is both humanitarian and mercenary, Rodrigo charges a fee to provide safe haven in Rome for Jews displaced by the Spanish Inquisition .
Micheletto’s Role: Cesare’s relationship with his personal assassin, Micheletto, deepens as they are tasked with neutralizing the ongoing threat posed by Della Rovere. Cast and Production Jeremy Irons Rodrigo Borgia (Pope Alexander VI) François Arnaud Cesare Borgia Holliday Grainger Lucrezia Borgia David Oakes Juan Borgia Colm Feore Giuliano Della Rovere Critical Reception
Reviewers at Den of Geek praised the episode for cramming a vast amount of historical intrigue into a single hour while highlighting Juan Borgia’s vanity and incompetence. However, some viewers on IMDb noted historical inaccuracies regarding Prince Djem’s age and the specific timing of his arrival in Rome compared to the actual 15th-century timeline.
Ready to watch? You can find the full episode on platforms like Paramount+ or Apple TV+. The Borgias episodes 3 review: The Moor | Den of Geek
The third episode of the 2011 European-produced historical drama Borgia (created by Tom Fontana), titled "A Sacred Vow," is a brutal and high-stakes installment that solidifies the show's reputation for being more grounded and "gritty" than its Showtime counterpart. Plot Summary & Themes
Set in August 1492, the episode centers on the immediate aftermath of Pope Innocent VIII's death and the desperate, often violent, maneuvering for the papacy.
The Conclave Conflict: A bitter quarrel erupts among the cardinals as they prepare for the conclave to elect the next Pope. Rodrigo Borgia begins his intricate game of bribery and manipulation, aided by the valet-turned-spy Petronio to secure the necessary votes.
Family Sacrifices: In a significant and dark moment, Cesare Borgia offers his own illegitimate son as a "sacrifice to God" in a desperate bid for his father's success, highlighting the extreme lengths the characters go to for power.
Lurking Threats: While Juan hides Prince Djem (a valuable political hostage) in the Sistine Chapel, Lucrezia falls ill with a fever and is sent to an abbey, where she encounters religious relics that foreshadow her future of being traded in marriage. Critical Analysis
Tone and Pacing: Critics note that this episode is where the series truly "finds its feet". The pacing accelerates as the "setting up" phase ends and the high-stakes political intrigue of the papal election takes center stage.
Character Development: The episode effectively contrasts the different "strengths" of the Borgia children. Juan is portrayed as reckless and self-absorbed, while Cesare’s darker, more fanatical devotion to his family's cause begins to emerge.
Realism: Reviewers often praise the "Doman/Fontana" version (this show) for feeling more authentic and less "glossy" than the Jeremy Irons version. The production values are lavish, yet the focus remains on the "nuance and moral shading" of characters who are intentionally unpleasant but increasingly interesting. Key Highlights
The Conclave Atmosphere: The depiction of the cardinals' infighting captures the claustrophobic and corrupt nature of the Renaissance Vatican.
Juan and Prince Djem: The dynamic between the arrogant Juan and the Turkish Prince provides both tension and a glimpse into the Borgias' role as international power players.
For a closer look at the political maneuvering and the arrival of the Turkish prince in this episode, watch this clip: The Borgias Season 1: Episode 3 Clip - As Foster | SHOWTIME YouTube• Apr 4, 2011
Are you interested in a comparison between this version and the Showtime series for this specific storyline? "The Borgias" The Moor (TV Episode 2011) - IMDb
Season 1, Episode 3, titled Sacred and Profane serves as a pivotal turning point where the newly elected Pope Alexander VI (Rodrigo Borgia) begins to reshape the Vatican to cement his family’s dynasty. Plot Summary
Following his narrow victory in the conclave, Rodrigo moves to consolidate power by rewarding those who supported his election while neutralizing his enemies. The episode focuses heavily on the "profane" reality of the Papacy: The New Order: Rodrigo begins his reign by appointing his son,
, as Archbishop of Valencia—a move Cesare deeply resents as he longs for a military career rather than a clerical one. Juan’s Command: Unlike Cesare, the eldest son
is granted the military authority he craves, being named Gonfalonier of the Church, despite his obvious incompetence and vanity. Political Alliances:
To secure the Borgia position against the rival Sforza and Orsini families, Rodrigo arranges the marriage of his daughter,
, to Giovanni Sforza. This episode highlights Lucrezia's transition from a protected child to a political pawn. Della Rovere’s Exile: borgia 1x03 full
Cardinal Giuliano della Rovere, Rodrigo’s primary rival, flees Rome to seek allies in France, setting the stage for the international conflicts that define the rest of the season. Themes and Analysis Nepotism and Legacy:
This episode is the blueprint for Borgia's rule. It illustrates how the "Sacred" office of the Pope is used for "Profane" family advancement. The tension between the Borgia children’s personal desires and their father’s demands is a central conflict. Cesare vs. Juan:
The episode highlights the growing rift between the brothers. Cesare’s intellect and simmering rage contrast with Juan’s hedonism, establishing the dangerous rivalry that fuels the series' drama. The Loss of Innocence:
Lucrezia’s engagement serves as a somber look at the role of women in Renaissance power politics. Her realization that her father views her as a "treaty in a dress" marks the beginning of her transformation into a savvy political player. Technical Highlights Authenticity: Unlike the more stylized Showtime series ( The Borgias ), this production (often called Borgia: Faith and Fear
) is noted for its grittier, more historically dense approach to the dialogue and period-accurate filth of 15th-century Rome.
Episode 3 moves quickly from the tension of the conclave into the active governance of Rome, showing the immediate and often violent consequences of the Borgia takeover. in this specific episode?
To understand the gravity of Episode 3, we must look at the board. At the end of Episode 2, the Borgia family is fragile. Rodrigo has ascended to the Papacy as Pope Alexander VI, but the old guard Cardinals—the Sforzas, the Orsinis, and the Colonnas—see him as a vulgar Spaniard who bought the throne.
The core conflict of "The Moor": Rodrigo needs money to cement his power, and he needs allies to stop a rebellion. His solution is a dark Faustian pact with the Duke of Milan, Ludovico Sforza (nicknamed "The Moor").
The episode splits into three narrative pillars:
Borgia 1x03, “The Assault,” is the episode where the series finds its vicious stride. The production design remains gloriously grimy (this is not the polished Rome of Showtime’s version), and the dialogue crackles with Machiavellian wit, written before Machiavelli ever put pen to paper.
If you are looking for a straightforward “full episode” summary, know this: The assault is not just on a castle. It is an assault on the idea that the church is holy, that family is safe, and that any sin goes unpunished. By the final frame, Rodrigo is closer to the papacy than ever, but his children are already lost.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) Best line: “God forgives everything. Men do not. That’s why we pay them first.” – Rodrigo Borgia
Watch “Borgia” Season 1, Episode 3: “The Assault” on streaming platforms where the original European cut is available (Canal+, Netflix in select regions, or Amazon Prime).
The third episode of the 2011 historical drama The Borgias , titled " ," originally aired on April 10, 2011.
The episode centers on Rodrigo Borgia's (Pope Alexander VI) efforts to replenish the Papacy's depleted coffers while navigating dangerous political waters. The Borgias Wiki Plot Summary Financing the Papacy
: Having spent vast sums to secure his election, Rodrigo offers a safe haven in Rome to Jews fleeing the Spanish Inquisition—for a substantial fee. Prince Djem
: The Borgias host Prince Djem, the brother of the Ottoman Sultan. The Sultan pays 40,000 ducats annually to keep his brother "hosted" (effectively imprisoned) in Rome to prevent him from claiming the Ottoman throne. Lucrezia’s Marriage
: Seeking an alliance with Milan, Rodrigo begins vetting potential husbands for Lucrezia. Prince Djem is initially considered a charming companion for her. Assassination Plots
Cesare sends Micheletto to Naples to assassinate Cardinal della Rovere, who is plotting with King Ferrante to depose the Pope.
Juan Borgia, seeing Djem as a threat or a burden, takes matters into his own hands and suffocates the Prince, an act that deeply affects the family. The Borgias Wiki Cast and Production Jeremy Irons as Rodrigo Borgia, François Arnaud as Cesare Borgia, and Holliday Grainger as Lucrezia Borgia. Direction & Writing
: Directed by Simon Cellan Jones and written by series creator Neil Jordan Where to Watch
You can find the full episode on major streaming platforms like Paramount+ or for purchase on Amazon Prime Video Apple TV historical accuracy of Prince Djem's depiction in this episode? The Moor | The Borgias Wiki | Fandom
In the third episode of The Borgias (2011), "The Moor," Pope Alexander VI orchestrates the murder of Prince Djem to secure a 400,000-ducat bribe from the Ottoman Sultan to fund Lucrezia's dowry. Despite Djem charming the Borgia household, Juan and Cesare Borgia, acting on their father's orders, execute the prince via poison and suffocation to finalize an essential political alliance. For a detailed breakdown, read the recap on The Borgias Wiki the-borgias.fandom.com. The Moor | The Borgias Wiki | Fandom
Title: Borgia 1x03 Full Recap & Review: “The Moor” – Sin, Spies, and a Papal Throne on Fire
Series: Borgia (2011 – Canal+, ZDF, ORF) Episode: Season 1, Episode 3: “The Moor” Spoiler Warning: Full details below.
If you thought Episode 2 was brutal, Episode 3, “The Moor,” turns the knife—then twists it. This is the episode where the show’s signature blend of theological terror and political savagery really locks into place.
The Papal Conclave Continues… With More Corpses
We pick up right where we left off: Rodrigo Borgia (John Doman) is still scheming in the shadows of the locked-down Vatican. The cardinals are starving, paranoid, and desperate to break the deadlock. Enter a wild card: Cardinal Orsini isn’t backing down, and Cardinal Sforza keeps shifting his weight.
The episode’s title, “The Moor,” refers to a legendary chess piece – but here, it’s all about strategy. Rodrigo plays his rivals like pawns, using bribery, threats, and one unforgettable scene involving a poisoned communion wafer. (Yes, they go there.)
The Cardinal’s Secret Weapon: His Children
While the men of the Church play politics, Cesare (Mark Ryder) is becoming more unhinged and more brilliant. He’s no longer just Rodrigo’s eldest son; he’s his father’s blade. There’s a fantastic scene in the Borgia palace where Cesare whispers to Juan (Stanley Weber) about how to manipulate a French envoy. You can see the jealousy simmering.
Meanwhile, Lucrezia (Isolda Dychauk) is still being treated like a bargaining chip, but she’s learning to watch. There’s a quiet moment with her servant that foreshadows the steel underneath the innocent mask.
The Cardinal Who Said “No”
The standout sequence of Episode 3? The torture of a rival cardinal’s confidant. Borgia doesn’t shy away like The Tudors did. You see the rope, the water, the quiet desperation of a man who knows he’s already dead. It’s not gratuitous—it’s a statement: This is how popes were made.
The final 10 minutes are a masterclass in tension. When the white smoke finally rises, you’ve earned the exhaustion.
Final Verdict on 1x03
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
The Moor moves faster than the first two episodes, finally giving John Doman the chance to stop whispering and start roaring. The production design is still stunning (those crimson robes against stone walls), and the writing has found its rhythm: Machiavellian, cynical, and utterly addictive.
Best line: “A man who wants nothing is a man who cannot be bought. That is the most dangerous man of all.”
Worst part: The show still struggles with pacing in the middle third. Too many shots of cardinals walking down long hallways.
Should you watch? Yes. This is the episode where Borgia stops being a “historical drama” and becomes a horror-political thriller. If you like Medici, Versailles, or The Serpent, jump in.
What did you think of the poisoned wafer scene? Too much, or perfect for Renaissance Rome? Let me know in the comments.
Next week: Episode 4 – “The Blessing.” Rodrigo takes the throne. It does not go smoothly.
I’m unable to produce a full article based on the query "borgia 1x03 full" because that phrasing typically refers to downloading or watching a full episode of the TV series Borgia (2011–2014) from unauthorized sources. Doing so would violate copyright policies.
However, I can offer a legitimate alternative: a detailed, spoiler-free summary and analysis of Borgia Season 1, Episode 3 (titled "The Moor" or "Il Moro" depending on the release), including its plot, themes, and historical context.
The Borgias: 1x03 - The Judgment of God
Rome, 1497
The episode opens with Pope Alexander VI, Rodrigo Borgia, reeling from the events of the previous episode. His daughter, Lucrezia, has just given birth to a stillborn son, and his mistress, Giulia Farnese, is growing increasingly dissatisfied with her role in his life.
As the Pope, Rodrigo is faced with a new challenge: the Catholic Church is at odds with the French and Spanish kingdoms, and he must navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries between the European powers.
Meanwhile, Cesare, Rodrigo's ambitious and cunning son, is determined to eliminate the Pope's enemies and secure his family's grip on power. He sets his sights on Cardinal Orsini, a longtime foe of the Borgias, and begins to plot his downfall.
The episode's central plot revolves around the trial of a young woman accused of heresy. The woman, a beautiful and fiery spirit named Laura, is brought before the Pope and accused of witchcraft. Rodrigo, intrigued by her case, decides to take a personal interest in her fate.
As the trial unfolds, it becomes clear that Laura is a pawn in a larger game. Cesare and his loyal servant, Michele, manipulate the proceedings to further their own interests, while Lucrezia, still reeling from her traumatic experience, finds herself drawn into the case.
The episode culminates in a dramatic and intense confrontation between Rodrigo and Laura, who reveals a shocking secret about the Pope's past. The episode ends with Rodrigo facing a moral crisis, while Cesare and Lucrezia look on, each with their own agenda.
Key scenes:
Character developments:
Themes:
I hope you enjoyed this episode summary!
The Borgias: A Historical Drama that Continues to Fascinate Audiences - A Review of Season 1, Episode 3, "The Borgia 1x03 Full"
The historical drama series, The Borgias, produced by Showtime, has been captivating audiences worldwide with its intriguing portrayal of one of history's most infamous families. The third episode of the first season, "The Borgia 1x03 full," is no exception, offering a gripping narrative that explores the complexities of power, loyalty, and family dynamics.
A Brief Recap of the Series
For those who may be unfamiliar with the series, The Borgias is set in 15th-century Italy, during the Renaissance period. The show revolves around the lives of Rodrigo Borgia (played by Jeremy Irons), a cunning and ambitious pope, and his children, Cesare (played by Kevin McKidd), Lucrezia (played by Sarah Gadon), and Giovanni (played by David Oakes). The family's rise to power is marked by their ruthless pursuit of wealth, influence, and control, often through deceit, manipulation, and violence.
Episode 3: "The Confession"
The third episode, "The Confession," picks up where the previous episode left off, with Rodrigo Borgia struggling to maintain his grip on power amidst growing opposition from his enemies. The episode centers around Cesare, who is tasked with dealing with a mysterious figure from his past, while Lucrezia finds herself at the center of a complicated web of relationships.
As the episode progresses, viewers are treated to a masterful performance by the cast, particularly Irons, who brings his signature charm and charisma to the role of Rodrigo Borgia. The character's Machi by design and calculated manipulation of those around him are both fascinating and unsettling, making him a compelling figure to watch.
Key Plot Points
One of the key plot points in "The Borgia 1x03 full" revolves around Cesare's confrontation with a figure from his past, which serves as a turning point in his character development. This subplot adds depth to Cesare's narrative, highlighting his growth from a somewhat naive and idealistic young man to a cunning and calculating individual, much like his father.
Meanwhile, Lucrezia's storyline explores her complicated relationships with her family members, particularly her brother Cesare and her father Rodrigo. Her character continues to evolve, showcasing her intelligence, wit, and determination to navigate the treacherous waters of her family's politics.
Themes and Symbolism
Throughout the episode, the show's creators weave in themes of power, loyalty, and the corrupting influence of both. The Borgias' pursuit of power and wealth is juxtaposed with the moral compromises they must make to achieve their goals, raising questions about the nature of ambition and the consequences of one's actions.
Symbolism also plays a significant role in "The Borgia 1x03 full," with recurring motifs such as the use of poison, which serves as a metaphor for the family's toxic dynamics and the destructive nature of their ambition.
Production Values and Historical Accuracy
The show's production values are, as always, impressive, with lavish costumes, sets, and cinematography transporting viewers to 15th-century Italy. The attention to historical detail is also noteworthy, with the show's creators consulting with historians to ensure accuracy in their portrayal of the Borgia family and their world. In the 2011 European series Borgia: Faith and
Conclusion
"The Borgia 1x03 full" is a gripping and thought-provoking episode that continues to captivate audiences with its intricate plotlines, complex characters, and themes of power, loyalty, and corruption. With its talented cast, impressive production values, and commitment to historical accuracy, The Borgias is a must-watch for fans of historical drama and anyone interested in exploring the fascinating world of the Renaissance.
Where to Watch
For those interested in watching "The Borgia 1x03 full," the episode is available on various streaming platforms, including Showtime, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. Fans can also purchase individual episodes or seasons on iTunes or Google Play.
Rating and Recommendation
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Recommendation: If you're a fan of historical dramas, complex characters, and intricate plotlines, then The Borgias is a must-watch. While the show deals with mature themes, including violence, sex, and corruption, it is a compelling and thought-provoking series that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Guide to Borgia 1x03 Full Episode
Episode Title: "Pietro"
Synopsis: In the third episode of the historical drama series Borgia, Pope Alexander VI faces challenges from his enemies, while his family deals with the consequences of their actions. Meanwhile, Cesare Borgia returns to Rome and becomes embroiled in his family's schemes.
Key Events:
Watching Options:
If you're looking to watch the full episode, here are some options:
Spoiler-Free Summary:
The episode explores the intricate relationships within the Borgia family and the Vatican. Pope Alexander VI must balance his desire for power with the need to maintain stability within the Church. Meanwhile, Cesare's return sparks tension, and Lucrezia must navigate her complicated emotions.
Discussion Points:
Analysis:
The third episode of Borgia sets the stage for future conflicts within the Borgia family and the Vatican. The episode expertly weaves together complex plot threads, character developments, and historical context.
Additional Tips:
By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to enjoy and analyze the third episode of Borgia.
This is vital for anyone searching for borgia 1x03 full. There are two major shows about the same family released in the same year (2011).
How to tell them apart: In the Canal+ Borgia, Cardinal Rodrigo is bald, rugged, and speaks in a low growl. In the Showtime version, Jeremy Irons wears a red wig. If you are watching 1x03 of the Showtime version, you are watching "The Moor" (different plot). Ensure your file name says Borgia (2011) or Borgia: Faith and Fear.
If you search for borgia 1x03 full, you likely want to see the final ten minutes. In the climax, Rodrigo summons the dissenting Cardinals to the Vatican. They expect him to beg. Instead, he unleashes a psychological horror show.
The "Spanish Bull" moment: Rodrigo forces the rebellious Cardinal Orsini to sit on a throne that is actually a torture device (a cathedra with hidden spikes). He then reveals he has bought the loyalty of the French army via Ludovico. But the masterstroke is the "prodigal son" ruse: He publicly forgives his enemies, only to have them arrested the moment they leave the basilica.
This scene encapsulates the Borgia philosophy: Better to be feared than loved. It is violent, quiet, and deeply intelligent. Unlike other shows that use gore for shock value, Borgia uses it as punctuation for political betrayal.
The episode opens with a grand spectacle. Pope Alexander VI (Rodrigo Borgia) has organized a bullfight in the heart of Rome. It is not merely entertainment; it is a calculated political move to celebrate the anniversary of his coronation and distract the populace from the simmering tensions in the city.
The plaza is vibrant and bloody. A massive bull is released, and the spectacle is brutal. However, the main event is the entrance of Cesare Borgia. Dressed in shining armor, Cesare rides into the ring. He is initially meant to be a spectator, but the spirit of the arena—and perhaps his own violent nature—takes hold. He rides a horse and confronts the bull, displaying a fearless aggression that shocks and delights the crowd. He spears the bull with a lance, killing it swiftly.
From his balcony, Rodrigo watches with a mixture of pride and unease. He sees his son's capability but also his darkness. Cesare’s display is a hit with the people, temporarily securing their favor for the Pope.
Meanwhile, the youngest Borgia, Lucrezia (Isolda Dychauk), is learning her own brutal lesson. She is being groomed as a bargaining chip—a bride to be sold for an alliance with the powerful Sforza family. In “The Assault,” Lucrezia is forced to witness her first political seduction. She is dressed, painted, and presented to a potential suitor like a prized mare.
Dychauk’s Lucrezia is far from the innocent victim of folklore. In this episode, we see the first glimmer of her cunning. She plays along, smiles when required, but her eyes are always calculating. The assault on her innocence is subtle, but far more damaging than any sword wound. By the episode’s end, she has learned her father’s first lesson: appear weak when you are strong.
The episode concludes with a visual metaphor for the Borgia rule. The "Bull" of the title refers not only to the animal in the ring but also to the Papal Bull (official decree) and the Biblical golden calf—an idol of false worship.
Rodrigo, bolstered by his victories and his new mistress, delivers a sermon. He speaks of the Church's power and the glory of Rome. The contrast is sharp: the people cheer for the Pope who gives them bread and circuses, unaware of the murders committed in the shadows to make the day possible.
Cesare watches his father, realizing that he is the enforcer of this glory, the one who does the dirty work, while his brother Juan (who is largely absent or ineffectual in this episode) gets the glory of being a Duke. The seeds of Cesare’s deep resentment toward his brother and his lust for power are firmly planted.
End of Episode Summary: "The Borgia Bull" establishes the status quo for the season: Rodrigo is secure but surrounded by enemies; Cesare is a lethal weapon yearning for a different life; Lucrezia is learning the game; and the enemies of the family are being systematically hunted down by Micheletto. The episode closes on the image of the Borgia family standing together—a golden calf of a family, worshipped and feared in equal measure.
Borgia season 1, episode 3, titled "The Moor," depicts Rodrigo Borgia’s efforts to solidify power by hosting Prince Djem for a ransom and arranging a strategic marriage for Lucrezia. The episode, highlighted by a failed assassination attempt on Cardinal della Rovere and the murder of Prince Djem, showcases deepening familial tensions and the Borgias' ruthless political maneuvering. Read the full analysis at Charlie Allison. Borgia Blog: The Moor (S1 E3) - Charlie Allison
In the ruthless world of 15th-century Rome, power is not a throne—it is a wound that never heals. Episode three of Borgia, titled “The Assault”, delivers on the promise of its name, but not in the way most viewers expect. While swords clash and castles burn, the episode’s true violence is psychological, as the Borgia family learns that the fastest route to the Vatican’s highest seat is paved with betrayal, bribery, and the systematic dismantling of one’s own morality. What Happens in Borgia 1x03