A New Reign Begins and Old Rivals Clash
Episode 7 of The Serpent Queen, titled "An Attack on the King," throws viewers headfirst into the treacherous world of French court politics following the shocking death of King Henry II. With Mary, Queen of Scots (Antonia Thomas) crowned Queen of France alongside her young husband Francis (George Hook), the balance of power shifts dramatically, threatening the stability of the realm.
A Vengeful Queen and a Zealous Convert
Mary, fueled by religious fervor and a desire to unite Catholic Europe under her rule, wastes no time in enacting her agenda. She pressures Francis to sign a decree banning Protestantism, a move fraught with tension and foreshadowing future unrest. This episode marks a turning point for Mary, showcasing her unwavering commitment to Catholicism and her willingness to wield her newfound power.
A Family Divided and a Kingdom in Turmoil
The episode also delves deeper into the complex dynamics between the Bourbon and Guise families. With the Guises now holding significant influence, the Bourbon brothers, Louis (Evan Mitchell) and Antoine (James Kent), are banished from court and forced to confront their failures. Their father, Charles (John Light), delivers a scathing rebuke, highlighting the family's dwindling power and their inability to navigate the political landscape.
Catherine's Return and a Desperate Plan
Catherine de Medici (Samantha Morton), though largely absent in the present timeline of the episode, remains a powerful presence. We learn that she has been banished from court as well, yet she doesn't surrender to her fate. Catherine hatches a daring and somewhat unorthodox plan to reclaim her position, proposing a risky kidnapping of the young king. Her desperation, combined with a touch of cunning, leaves viewers questioning the lengths to which she is willing to go.
Secrets, Lies, and a Serpent's Trap
Meanwhile, Rahima (Sennia Nanua) continues to languish in her prison cell. Mary visits her, seeking information about Catherine's potential involvement in witchcraft. This encounter leads Rahima, naive and eager to prove herself, on a dangerous mission to find a hidden letter supposedly containing evidence against Catherine. However, this search takes a sinister turn as the episode's closing scene reveals Catherine's awareness of the plan. Rahima's apparent success in finding the letter is likely a carefully orchestrated trap, solidifying Catherine's reputation as a cunning manipulator.
The Serpent Queen: An Attack on the King is a captivating episode that showcases the show's strengths - its blend of historical intrigue, political maneuvering, and dark humor. The episode sets the stage for future conflicts, leaving viewers eager to see how Catherine will navigate this precarious situation and how Rahima will fare after falling victim to the Serpent Queen's schemes.