Sack of Bologna by Gaston de Foix
French forces under Gaston de Foix are sacking Bologna, with soldiers looting and destroying the city while terrified citizens flee or resist. In the Piazza Maggiore, a Bolognese merchant pleads for m
Setting
The Piazza Maggiore in Bologna, Italy, during the Sack of Bologna by French forces under Gaston de Foix. The square is surrounded by medieval and Renaissance buildings, including the Basilica of San Petronio and the Palazzo Comunale. The cobblestone streets are littered with debris, and smoke rises from burning buildings in the distance.
Characters
Gaston de Foix
primary
A tall, athletic man in his early 20s with sharp, aristocratic features. His face is clean-shaven, with piercing blue eyes that reflect both his youth and his ruthlessness. His golden hair is cut short in the military style of the French nobility. Despite his young age, his posture and bearing exude authority.
French Lieutenant
secondary
A lean, battle-hardened man in his early 30s with a sharp jawline and piercing blue eyes. His face bears a faded scar running from temple to cheekbone, a souvenir from past campaigns. His hands are calloused from years gripping sword hilts.
Bolognese Merchant
secondary
A middle-aged man with a stocky build, his face weathered from years of trade. His dark hair is streaked with grey, and his hands, usually skilled in handling goods, now tremble in fear. His brown eyes are wide with desperation, and sweat beads on his forehead.
French Soldier
background
A rugged foot soldier in his late 20s, with a weathered face marked by scars from previous battles. His build is lean but strong, honed by years of military campaigns. His hands are calloused, and his arms are sinewy from wielding weapons and carrying heavy loads. His dark hair is matted with sweat and soot, and his beard is unkempt.
Bolognese Woman
background
A young woman in her mid-20s, with a slender but strong build, dark brown hair partially covered by a hastily donned headscarf, and deep brown eyes wide with terror. Her face is smudged with soot, and her cheeks are streaked with tears.
Dialog
Gaston de Foix
Burn what remains. Leave nothing standing.
French Lieutenant
Par le sang! The granaries too?
Bolognese Merchant
Monseigneur! I beg—my silversmith's shop—take the wares but spare the structure!
Gaston de Foix
Your city chose defiance. Now it burns. Remove this man.
French Lieutenant
Bouches inutiles! Away with you before we torch you with your timbers!
Bolognese Merchant
Madonna Santa! The ledgers—at least let me—
Gaston de Foix
The smoke pleases me. Let Milan see it from their walls.