The Tudors

When England's King Henry VIII wants to wage war with France, Cardinal Thomas Wolsey proposes a treaty that will ensure their place in history as the Duke of Buckingham plots to assert his own claim to the throne.

In the wake of signing a treaty with France, Henry learns of Buckingham's plot to assassinate him as Lady Blount finally bears him the son he has always wanted.

As a reward for his denunciation of Martin Luther, the Pope christens Henry "Defender of the Faith," but a brush with death causes the king to seek a solution to his lack of an heir. Princess Margaret marries the decrepit King of Portugal reluctantly, but the union is short-lived; Henry's desire for Anne Boleyn intensifies when Anne goes home to her family estate.

Resolved to marry Anne Boleyn, Henry presses Wolsey for a divorce; a betrayal of their treaty by Charles V sends Henry seeking a rapprochement with the French.

As the plague that is sweeping England threatens Anne's life, Henry anxiously awaits word from the Pope regarding his request for a divorce.

The arrival of the Pope's envoy brings a decision on Henry's request for a divorce closer than ever.