The Borgias

Courtesy of Showtime

Just got back from a wonderful vacation in Italy and have begun to watch Showtime's new series, The Borgias. I believe that just like with The Tudors Showtime has done a good job making history as enjoyable as possible. The Borgias focuses on the papacy of Pope Alexander or Rodrigo Borgia. The Borgia family became infamous for poisoning its enemies and it's mob like mentality. In fact, some have even gone so far as to say that the Borgias were the original mafia. Whether or not this is true, the show does focus on the sinfulness of the time with both the Pope and his son Cardinal Cesare enjoying numerous love affairs. There is plenty of blood, but in my opinion it serves a purpose and is not just used for effect. While it is true that the story does not always stick with historical fact some license must be given to the fact that The Borgias does not claim to be a documentary, but a drama. It is exciting and perhaps will encourage its viewers to examine the time period more closely. The actors are great, it seems like they have truly immersed themselves into the period. Overall, this new show has my support and will hopeful continue to live up to its expectations.