Expulsion of the Bentivoglio from Bologna
The Bentivoglio family, rulers of Bologna, are being forcibly expelled from their palace by papal soldiers in Piazza Maggiore. The scene is tense as Giovanni II Bentivoglio and his family are escorted
Setting
Piazza Maggiore, the main square of Bologna, surrounded by medieval and Renaissance buildings. The Bentivoglio family is being forcibly removed from their palace by papal soldiers.
Characters
Giovanni II Bentivoglio
primary
A robust man in his late 50s with a square jaw and piercing dark eyes that command attention. His salt-and-pepper beard is neatly trimmed, and his muscular frame suggests a lifetime of military training. A prominent scar runs from his left temple to cheekbone, a battle trophy from his younger years.
Papal Captain
primary
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 40s with a weathered face marked by a prominent scar running from his left temple to his jawline. His dark hair is streaked with gray, tied back in a short ponytail. His piercing blue eyes convey both authority and weariness.
Bentivoglio Wife
secondary
A noblewoman of late middle age, with a dignified bearing. Her once-youthful features are now lined with care and sorrow. She has dark brown hair, partially concealed under a veil, and expressive brown eyes that reflect her anguish. Her hands are delicate but strong, clutching at her family's possessions.
Soldier
secondary
A burly papal soldier in his late 20s, with a square jaw and short-cropped dark hair. His face bears the scars of previous battles, and his muscular build suggests years of military training. His hands are rough and calloused, gripping objects with practiced brutality.
Merchant
background
A middle-aged man with a stocky build, weathered skin from years of outdoor market work, and deep-set brown eyes. His short, salt-and-pepper beard is neatly trimmed, and his hands bear calluses from handling goods.
Dialog
Giovanni II Bentivoglio
Do you think, Captain, that the Holy Father will sleep soundly tonight, knowing he has robbed a noble house of its rightful place?
Papal Captain
The will of Rome is not for you to question, Signore. Your time in Bologna ends today.
Giovanni II Bentivoglio
Then let history remember this—Bentivoglio blood does not fade quietly into the night.
Papal Captain
Enough speeches. The carriage waits—unless you prefer chains.
Giovanni II Bentivoglio
A Bentivoglio rides, not dragged like common thieves. And tell your master—Bologna’s stones remember their lords.
Papal Captain
Move them out. The Holy See has spoken.