" The Prince ," the tenth episode of the third season of The Borgias , serves as the unplanned series finale following the show's cancellation by Showtime . Directed and written by series creator Neil Jordan, the episode marks the culmination of the Borgia family’s descent into ruthless pragmatism and their ultimate attempt to secure a hereditary monarchy within the Papacy. I. Narrative Climax and The "Hereditary Papacy"
: To establish this kingdom, Cesare leads the Papal Army against his rival, Caterina Sforza. With the strategic help of Micheletto, who identifies a weak point in the walls (an old Roman quarry), Cesare successfully breaches the 12-foot-thick defenses. The Borgias - Season 3Eps10
The subplot concerning Lucrezia Borgia’s second marriage reaches a violent end. Her husband, Alfonso of Aragon, becomes increasingly erratic and aggressive due to heavy drinking and political pressure. " The Prince ," the tenth episode of
: The episode reaffirms the incestuous bond between Cesare and Lucrezia, with Cesare vowing she will now "be his for good". III. Themes and Historical Context Narrative Climax and The "Hereditary Papacy" : To
: Rather than allowing Caterina to commit suicide, Cesare captures her, dressing her in fine gowns to parade her through Rome in a "gilded cage". II. The Tragedy of Lucrezia and Alfonso