Ep 2. The Dome and the Domicile

In the second episode of Medici: Masters of Florence season 1, titled "The Dome and the Domicile," we see the continued rise to power of Cosimo de' Medici and the tension it creates among those who oppose him.

The episode begins with the construction of the famous Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Filippo Brunelleschi, the architect in charge of the project, is facing opposition from the traditionalist members of the Guild of Wool, who are unhappy with his new dome design. Cosimo sees the potential in Brunelleschi's work and decides to back him, generating more disdain from his enemies.

As Cosimo becomes more powerful, he realizes that he must protect his family and his wealth from those who seek to do him harm. His wife Contessina suggests that they move to a more secure location, and they acquire the Palazzo Medici, a fortress-like structure that they turn into their residence and headquarters. However, their new home is not without its own set of challenges. Cosimo's mother, Lucrezia, disapproves of their extravagant lifestyle and worries about the attention it will attract. Additionally, the Palazzo is infested with rats, adding yet another issue for the Medici family to deal with.

Meanwhile, Cosimo's brother, Lorenzo, continues his affair with a married woman, causing tensions within the family. Cosimo warns him of the danger that such behavior poses to their reputation and urges him to break it off. Lorenzo, however, is unable to resist his passion and continues to pursue the relationship, risking everything that the Medici family has worked hard to achieve.

As the episode progresses, we see the power dynamic within the city of Florence shift with Cosimo's influence growing stronger. He uses his wealth and influence to support the arts, commissioning works from famous artists such as Donatello and Fra Angelico. However, this also creates jealousy and resentment among his opponents, who see him as selfish and power-hungry.

Overall, "The Dome and the Domicile" is an episode that showcases the continued growth of the Medici family's power and influence in Florence, while also highlighting the challenges that come with such success. As the series moves forward, it promises to deliver more intrigue, drama and political machinations that made the Medici family one of the most powerful in Italy's history.