In a crucial scene, Rodrigo’s associate Gacet introduces him to Petronio, a valet-cum-spy who promises to aid him in gaining the necessary cardinal votes. Rodrigo then visits the elderly Ardicino della Porta, persuading him to become a cardinal again. He promises enacting positive moral change, though the old man remains deeply pessimistic about the Church’s "moral standards".
The dialogue is sharp and transactional, reflecting a world where trust is a liability. The episode masterfully juxtaposes the opulence of Vatican rituals with the squalor and violence of the Roman streets, reminding the viewer of the fragile foundation upon which the Borgia dynasty is built. Why "Sacred Matters" is a Pivotal Episode
The titular "Moor" is Prince Djem (played with tragic nobility by Elyes Gabel), the brother of the Ottoman Sultan, Bayezid II. Djem arrives in Rome seeking asylum, accompanied by his immense wealth and a looming shadow of death. On the surface, this is a diplomatic subplot. Beneath the surface, it is a gold mine. borgia 1x03 full
To solve his financial woes, Rodrigo devises two ruthless schemes. First, he offers sanctuary to Jewish refugees fleeing the Spanish Inquisition, but only for a hefty fee. Second, he agrees to host a charming Turkish prince, Djem (Elyes Gabel), for an annual fee of 4,000 ducats, while also receiving a secret offer from the Sultan to pay a staggering 400,000 ducats if the prince meets with a fatal "accident".
The action picks up in the immediate aftermath of the pope's death. Rome is in turmoil, and the College of Cardinals convenes for the Conclave to elect his successor. In a crucial scene, Rodrigo’s associate Gacet introduces
While "A Sacred Vow" focuses on the Conclave, the seeds of a major conflict are planted elsewhere. A key plot involving Cardinal Giuliano della Rovere runs parallel, showcasing his master plan to undermine Rodrigo.
witness the chaos in the streets while Rodrigo and Giovanni pray over the deceased Pope. The dialogue is sharp and transactional, reflecting a
Because it abandons the "rise to power" trope. By the end of 1x03, Rodrigo has power, but he has lost his soul. The episode’s title, "The Moor," refers literally to Ludovico Sforza (who was dark-skinned), but metaphorically, it refers to the darkness inside the Borgia family.