Original subtitles

Accipe coronam regni quae licet ab indignis,

episcoporum tamen manibus capiti tuo imponitur.

The Archduchesses please.

First position, and posture. Music.

Posture

Wait!

And turn.

Stop. - Stand up.

Stand up!

What does a noble maid do on the floor?

I cannot dance.

Yes you can.

Hey Duke, listen.

Will you take me as your wife?

I? But you will rule one day. and then I will crown you.

But girls do not rule. My brother will rule.

You have a brother? - Not yet.

But the dear God will send him to us.

Is it not true? As soon as the Lord wants it, he will send him to us, will he not, Father?

Well then...

Once again please.

Thank you, Majesty.

You should not do this, Your Majesty.

This is medicine and I am a exemplary patient.

Of course. Just... - Does The Emperor want a male heir now or not?

In nomine patris et filii et spiritus sancti.

Show him the pictures.

Dr. Bassand, what is so important that it cannot wait until tomorrow?

Apologies, Serene Highness. You always wanted to know all news...

The Empress is expecting? - No.

So what is it then?

I fear in this matter all hope is lost.

But The Emperor lies with her. - He does. But her liver is...

What in the world has an heir to the throne to do with the liver?

The medicine my predecessor prescribed Her Majesty...

Heals nothing. Is just alcohol. Everybody know that.

Precisely.

The liver of The Empress has hardened.

And if you consider her blessed age of 41...

Without a male heir, Maria Theresa will succeed to the throne.

But we all know that not she but her husband will rule.

and this could be, God forbid, a certain duke from Lorraine.

Our country needs a strong ruler.

Do you know how many soldiers are obedient to The King of Prussia? 80,000.

According to gossip, not even the fly of pants of the Lorraine boy are obedient to him.

Do you seriously think someone like that can protect us from the Prussians and the Ottomans?

We need a Habsburg heir. So, what is your plan, Doctor Blassand?

Science cannot do everything, Serene Highness. I am just a doctor.

The Empress' personal doctor.

What a position.

It would be too bad to lose it.

Of course. It has cost me a lot to get that position.

Then hurry and come up with something.

With all due respect, I think you should talk to Padre Kampmüller about that.

Why?

Because you demand a miracle.

She is sleeping. Join me in my prayers, Professor Spannagel,

so she will give Austria a son, an heir to the throne.

And what if our prayers are not answered?

Do you not think we should prepare Maria Theresia to rule?

Do you want to defy God's will? How could she rule, as a woman?

My dear Spannagel.

Imperial Highness, I've brought you another [book by] Racine,

The distraction you asked for.

Kind of you.

Professor Spannagel and I just had a debate.

The professor thinks, we should broaden the education of your firstborn.

Do not be foolish.

What should all of that knowledge be good for?

If we knew everything, we could not bear life.

Lack of knowledge makes us happy.

Exactly. Only faith blesses us.

Maria's task is it to give the [Habsburg] dominions with children.

The Lord in heaven is by her side.

I am already excited for court.

We will amuse ourselves amazingly with the court ladies again.

We are driving to Vienna to visit the Archduchess.

The ceremonial at the Habsburg court is pretty strict, my lord.

It is not like in Prague.

Too bad.

Supposedly, Maria Theresa's charm is not to be overlooked.

How do you measure the charm of an archduchess?

By the size of the territory? - Yes, or by the size of the army.

I cannot show myself to him like that.

Look.

That is currently in fashion there.

French Style.

You can nearly see the... - Exactly, Anna.

That is exactly how a decollete must look like.

Hold that.

Maria? Anna?

Have all your senses taken a leave? What are you doing there?

Füchsin, I look like a nun with that. [Füchsin = Vixen, female version of family name Fuchs]

The virtues of a young lady are chastity and modesty

and a morally appropriate dress.

Look.

Oh, how pretty it is.

What is this nonsense? It is time for your private study.

We are sorting out dresses. Alms for the poor.

You are lying.

Go to the castle's chapel. Both of you.

We will eat dinner in a few moments.

The girls fast today.

I saw coquetry and desire in your eyes.

There are things The Church does not tolerate.

The upcoming arrival of The Duke of Lorraine is a test of your loyalty to The Holy Church and your country.

Do not forget that, Maria.

[Vienna]

It seems Emperor Charles has been able to built himself a new palace in the few years I have not been here.

It is not the Emperor's. It is the Belvedere.

The summer house of Eugene of Savoy.

Is that supposed to be joke?

It is more splendid than the Hofburg.

In this day and age, Prince Eugene has so much influence that even The Emperor fears him.

And I am really supposed to act as cupbearer at The Emperor's feast?

An honor. Only the most important nobles serve.

An ancient tradition. - Terrific nonsense.

You will serve Maria Theresia herself.

I just hope she has learned to dance in the mean time.

His Majesty Charles VI, Holy Roman Emperor, [Literally: Roman-German Emperor]

Archduke of Austria,

Sovereign of the Habsburg Dominions,

King of Bohemia, King of Naples, King of Sicily,

welcomes his gathered subjects at the imperial table.

Eat and drink and praise The Emperor!

The Archduchesses Maria Theresia and Maria Anna will now entertain us with a light opera.

Your singing was enchanting.

Yes, that can go back.

I am singing for God's higher glory.

Well, back then in the gardens of the Prague castle, there...

There. There I did let myself go.

I still thank God for that.

I had hoped devoutly to hold you in my arms today.

But there is no reason for that.

Well, then I could smell your hair a little longer and maybe even touch your neck.

Stop this immoral talk.

But yearning is not reprehensible, my angel.

Address me as Maria Theresia.

Maria who sings so wonderfully for God's higher glory?

Yes, I think mostly of the name of my patron saint the Holy Virgin Mary [Maria], who bravely carried her loads.

Because she withstood the temptations of carnal lust?

Forgive me.

What was that?

It seems the loose French customs do not work at the Austrian court.

A lot of things here are different compared to modern Europe.

Intrigue calls the shots around here, they say.

You should better leave now.

Why?

Because there is nobody left you could serve.

I have waited for you for so long.

The whole time I only thought of you.

I thought you were praying the whole time?

I put your picture under my pillow every night.

Do you remember? You gave it to me for my 12th birthday.

But you do still remember our dance in the gardens of Prague castle, do you not?

Well, I think it is not appropriate for me to be in the ladies' dressing room.

Did I say something wrong? - No, you did not, you did not.

But should we not wait until the protocol allows for us to meet?

But I want to see you today. Tonight or tomorrow?

Marie? What is going on here, for God's sake?

Franz is just helping me change. - For God's sake, come!

At least you should have enough common sense, Highness,

when she has lost hers because of you.

Please go.

They met in secret. Maria and the Lorraine!

And this is why you are so out of breath?

I am worried that if the Lord does not answer my prayers this duke will become the next regent.

No, he will not.

He will not?

No

Do you already have another groom for Maria?

Good.

Speak. Who?

Someone who guarantees us that there will be no war with Prussia.

Never.

No.

You know they say Crown Prince Friedrich prefers men in his bed.

There are worse crimes.

He is a Protestant.

You are a loyal servant of the realm.

Yes, of course, but...

Then pray already that the Protestant agrees.

Messenger!

For the ambassador of Prussia.

Morning.

What did my little singing bird do yesterday?

Nothing. Why?

The court tweets something different.

Franzl was with her.

We love each other.

Oh God, child. Who cares about love?

Courtship is politics.

Papa, I will marry him, will I not? It is agreed upon.

Do not worry about the future. That is my job.

Everything is going to be fine.

The duke in the blue dress. Do not let him through.

What is the matter? Let me pass.

His Majesty asked for me.

His Majesty must have sleepless nights with such an impetuous daughter.

The marriage will calm her down. - I agree with Your Majesty.

We will start looking for a groom for Maria Theresia.

I already chose one. - Oh really?

Start negotiations with the Lorraine.

We have promised it to her since childhood anyway.

I all due respect, Majesty, but...

do you not think Franz Stephan would be too weak as a husband?

That is exactly what I want.

My son-in-law should not rival my son when I pass on the throne on to him.

Oh well, I am so relieved.

I knew it was only gossip.

What kind of gossip?

Oh nothing. Nothing. Stupid gossip.

Your Highness himself also always says that rumors only exist to be ignored.

First of all, I need to know the rumor to ignore it.

So, what kind of gossip?

In the court's hallways they whisper that there will be no male heir any longer.

Stupid gossip, like I said.

Who says that?

The Empress' personal doctor.

Bring me the doctor! Immediately!

How can he dare to say such a thing? Is he God?

Does he want to raise himself above The Almighty himself?

Only God alone decides if he wants to give me a son.

So, why is he telling such lies?

The medicine my predecessor gave to The Empress was...high in volume.

Yes. Continue.

Unfortunately, it weakened the physiques of The Empress very much.

Then do something!

Give her a different medicine. Do blood-letting. What do I know? He is the doctor.

For what do I have him?

I fear, Majesty,

that even blood-letting will not help anymore.

The Empress, Majesty, is...is too old.

I am deeply sorry, Majesty.

Out.

Out.

Do not worry, Majesty.

We will find a husband for Maria Theresia who will rule as if he was your own son.

I promised my daughter she will marry Franz.

I know.

But we must adapt to the situation.

No.

The Lorraine on the throne would just be a lame deer that attracts the predators.

The Prussians, the Hungarians, the Ottomans, they would all tear us into shreds.

It will break her heart. - Better the heart than the neck.

You know yourself, Majesty, what the destiny of female rulers of defeated countries is.

I fear there is no room for compromise anymore but...

But I promise you that, if you trust me,

I will put all of my powers into motion to find you a son-in-law

who will not only protect your daughter but the entire realm.

My husband, I did not expect you today.

Should I lie down on the bed?

Leave the pictures here.

Come on.

Out!

May I ask you for a dance?

Without music? - Do you not hear it?

In there.

Duke?

It is necessary that you attend to other duties.

With all due respect, Majesty, what in the world could be more important than a dance with Her Highness?

The preparations for your departure.

But...

The Duke cannot leave his country alone for such a long time.

Your Imperial Majesty.

Your Highness.

Dad? - Not now. Not a word.

Marshall von Grumbkow has arrived from Prussia. - Thank you. Leave us alone.

Serene Highness.

Friend, he brings news. Hopefully good ones.

Friedrich Wilhelm shows himself very excited.

Should the plan succeeds, he will reward you generously. Believ me.

And I openly admit, me too.

Well you know, at my age you do not need as much.

I am happy when I know the realm is safe.

You think you need to put the realm's interests above your own?

I am seriously starting to worry about you.

Oh stop it.

Rather tell me, what does the prince think about this marriage?

He is delighted. I assume.

To put it into other words, he does not know about it.

Sooner or later his father will him the happy news.

A small glass of Tokaji? [wine from Northern Hungary]

The Austrian dominions and Prussia.

We will drink to this union.

Imagine the Russians, the English and the French

would lose from one moment to the next their influence;

[they] would become supporting actors in a newly arranged Europe.

But before I start negotiations about a marriage of Crown Prince Friedrich to Maria Theresia,

I should be sure that I would be successful.

Do you think my influence that small?

The Archduchess supposedly is quite proud/arrogant.

At least that is what they say about her.

Maria Theresia is loyally obedient to The Emperor, the church and the realm.

Of course.

One more thing. Friedrich Wilhelm does not like to embarrass himself.

If the plan fails, his vengeance will be brutal on us.

And he knows about it?

You will climb out of the window.

A carriage is waiting in the courtyard downstairs and Franz will then join you in it.

Anna, thank you. Pray for me.

I warned you God's eye sees everything.

Get in, Duke. It is cold.

Surprised?

Actually no.

Let me be honest with you,

My interests differ from The Emperor's.

For him, it is about the House of Habsburg's eternal glory.

For me, it is about Austria.

I would even give the crown to the Prince of the Tartars,

if he could guarantee me that in the next fifty years no one will touch this country.

Do you understand?

Such words could easily be interpreted as high treason, Serene Highness.

You would not betray me.

You are a good boy.

And you are in love. A mistake.

Not your only one but at the moment your biggest one.

You know nothing about me.

One day you will be an excellent husband and father. And on top of that a magnificent economist.

But you will never become a great warrior.

You are lacking the assertiveness for that.

Not a reason to not give me Maria Theresia's hand.

I cannot do that, my friend.

But in one or two years, I will give you her sister Anna as a wife.

Excuse me? - What is so difficult to understand about it?

Through this marriage, you get the chance to see Maria Theresia whenever you want to.

You would no longer have to hide in the ladies' dressing room.

Your father would be delighted if you came home with a Habsburg princess.

No matter if she is called Maria Theresia or Anna.

And well, you could do about love whatever you desire.

But Resi...

If you truly love her, my friend,

then wish for a husband for her who will not allow her country to be scavenged.

Behind my back,

against the protocol. - Forgive me, Your Imperial Highness.

You will marry whoever we will choose as your husband.

Franz Stephan of Lorraine will marry Anna.

What?

He will not do that.

He already agreed.

Franz, this is not true. You cannot want that.

What we want, does not matter here.

We are pawns in a game. Do you not understand that?

Come on, child. You will see, in a few years all of this will be forgotten.

It is just a man.

After some time, it will not matter next to whom you will wake up to.

One gets used to everything.

Franz and I, we belong together. He is destined to be mine.

Why does nobody understand that? - Maria!

You are to full of pride and arrogance.

Some things just have to be accepted.

I will take him or no one.

I vote for the Spaniard Don Carlos.

With him, England will become our enemy.

A good choice would be the Saxon prince.

He would still be wearing diapers while sitting on the throne.

And furthermore, Saxony is just as poor as Lorraine. Not a good choice.

That alliance would bleed us dry financially. - That is what I said.

And you, Prince? You remain silent?

There are exactly three options, Your Majesty.

And when the Serene Lords have calmed down again, they will agree with me.

Countenance, please. We are listening.

The Spanish heir to the throne.

Too young.

The Wittelsbach Elector [Bavaria]. - They say he is weakened by his age.

Remember, he is still supposed to give the realm some male heirs.

Not a good choice. - Who is free of mistakes, dear Count?

An old man and a child. You have not got anything better?

Prince Friedrich, the heir to the Prussian throne.

A Protestant!

This is not a time for jokes, Prince.

Prussia is already negotiating with Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel.

They have come to a halt.

France and England would never tolerate that.

An alliance with Prussia means one thing: War.

Yes. But with Prince Friedrich, we can win.

My medicine.

Nothing but swill.

Your Imperial Highness, the court composer has finished his work.

You will learn this until Sunday to honor the Prussian delegation.

There is a serious marriage candidate.

Prince Friedrich of Prussia. The Berlin court confirmed his interest in you.

But I have none in him.

If it is The Lord's will that you will truly be my heir, then someone must sit on the throne who can keep it.

If it is The Lord's will, he will give me the strength to sit on it just as firmly as you do.

Really? Then you can surely tell me how much taxes we collect each year.

Or how many men serve in our army?

The ministers will surely tell me. - The ministers?

What does The Elector of Bavaria think of the [Austrian] dominions?

What does France claim? Do you have an answer?

She is just supposed to marry, not got to war.

Precisely. She is supposed to marry, namely the Prussian.

And bear him a son.

Before she becomes such a useless broad like you.

Learn the song! I want you to make a good impression.

Bravissima, Your Royal Highness.

Now imagine adding a flute. Would that not be a superb duet?

Crown Prince Friedrich is supposedly a true master with his flute.

His Majesty Friedrich Wilhelm, on the other hand, does not have much sense for music. That is what they say.

Supposedly, he chastised The Crown Prince for his play on the flute.

The Prince had studied in secret. It was justified punishment.

Weird how gruesome parents can be towards their own children, is it not?

If it is for their well-being.

They say The Prince wanted to flee to England from so much well-being.

I do not know what you mean.

After that, Friedrich Wilhelm, supposedly, had The Crown Prince' best friend beheaded

And Friedrich had to attend the execution. A...

truly justified punishment, right?

Maria Theresia!

Highness, you are meddling in the affairs of a foreign ruling house.

According to your opinion, it soon will not be foreign to me any longer.

But such gruesomeness will always be foreign to me.

Do you really want to marry me to such a babaric court?

Be quiet now!

Apologies, Marshall.

Is this your official opinion about the Prussian royal court?

No, of course not.

Yes, it is. Report it back if you like.

That is my opinion.

You are not allowed to enter The Emperor's rooms.

You are asked to leave, Highness.

I need to talk to him. - His Majesty sees no reason for that.

I am his daughter. I have the right... - Oh no, you forfeit that right.

You insulted the ambassador, gave the Lorraine the glad eye,

and spit on Prussia's Friedrich.

In a few weeks, the whole of Europe will know about this.

You are useless.

But...Mother, I... - No one will marry you now!

You are useless, just like me.

I am ready to atone and to receive my punishment.

But a life without Franz,

I cannot do that.

How selfish of you, Highness.

You only think about yourself when it is actually about peace in the whole of Europe.

Shall Anna secure the peace.

Your sister is the second-born.

But if you would make way for her...

Does he advise me to commit suicide? - God in heaven, no!

But you could dedicate your life, your love, entirely to The Maker.

Join a convent and make way for your sister.

The realm needs a strong hand.

And The Duke of Lorraine does not have one.

Whatever else one thinks about him.

Why can I not be the strong one?

Because you are still a child, even worse a woman.

Look at you.

Does a ruler look like this?

If you want to serve your realm, join a convent.

I must warn you.

According to the Jesuits, it is not suitable for a woman to study the theory of ruling.

According to the Jesuits, for a woman it is only suitable to pray, bear children and serve her husband.

Take the warning seriously, Highness.

If they find such books with you, they will accuse you of heresy.

You too, Spannagel. You are the one who gave them to me.

I am old already.

But you must consider well what you want to risk.

With what do we start?

The greatest power holders in history.

It is a compulsory read for every ruler.

How long will it take until he will have taught me everything?

The basics?

A year, rather two.

He has three months.

France wanted to see Stanislaw Leszczyński on the Polish throne

and provoked because of that the war with the Holy Roman Empire

Because the candidate of His Majesty, your imperial father, was The Elector of Saxony,

who is now ruling as August III.

Why do I need to know all of that?

Oh, Highness.

Macchiavelli says:

"A good ruler needs to gather knowledge and use it ruthlessly."

A good ruler should be compassionate, not ruthless.

Prince Eugen of Savoy is a great admirer of Machiavelli.

He is buying his friends by his model.

And those who cannot be bought, he regards as enemies.

And he, Spannagel, does he admire Macchiavelli as well?

Because if he does, he should be selfish and not endanger himself.

Highness, if I can educate you to become a true ruler,

my insignificant life gets meaning.

You see how selfish that is?

Leszczyński met, as a representative of the Lithuanian confederation,

with the Swedish king who promised him the crown.

Good!

In 1713, England alongside Habsburg's allies made peace with France in Utrecht.

By that, Philip of Anjou was confirmed as heir to the Spanish throne.

I am so happy I am allowed to stay stupid.

Anna, you are the smartest young lady I know.

I love you.

One does not say that. It is against the protocol.

The ceremonial protocols form the foundation of the court ceremonial.

With the Treaty of Rastatt, the War of the Spanish Succession ended in 1716.

1714. - 1714.

As compensation for the Spanish throne, Austria received the Spanish Netherlands, Sardinia,

the Duchies of Milan and Mantua, Lombardy,

And what else?

Florence.

The Kingdom of Naples.

How do you want to rule if you do not know what you are ruling over?

It is an awful lot.

Yes, it is a lot.

Your realm.

Continue.

The imperial troops were led in the war from 1716...

Until? - 1718...

Continue - ...by Prince Eugen of Savoy,

who successfully led them into battle against the Ottomans.

Maria?

Maria!

What are you doing here?

A present for His Majesty, my father.

We are embroidering a hunting scene, just as he likes it.

Maybe this will soften his heart.

I advise you to obey.

otherwise, you might still have to join a convent against your will.

Come. Let us continue.

Nonsense. I am tired.

In this moment, His Majesty, your father, negotiates with the Hungarian delegates.

Hungary realized the unfortunate position the House of Habsburg is in

and desires the throne for itself now. - But...

the Hungarians agreed to recognize a female heir to the throne.

Correct. And the treaty's name is?

Pragmatic Sanction.

So let us remember it including its signatories.

Articuli dominorum praelatorum, baronum, magnatum, et nobilium.

Listen well, Highness.

Coeterorumque statuum et ordinum regni Hungariae.

Majesty, as you surely know the paragraph about the succession of your daughter

was smuggled into the Pragmatic Sanction.

Are you implying, the Hungarian ambassador has signed a treaty without reading it beforehand?

Do you really want to ascribe this to a fellow countryman? Count!

We need the regency of a strong male hand.

Without one, the separatist powers will grow stronger in Hungary.

Strong words.

The realm will get its male heir.

The Empress is preparing herself for a pilgrimage to the Holy Mother of God.

Your Highness, allow me to express my compliments.

Please.

What kind of texts are these?

Poems.

I want to read them. - And you are who?

I must have missed your name when you introduced yourself.

Then listen well.

Esterházy Nikolaus, direct descendant of an important Hungarian noble family.

An advice: Put your efforts into being more than just someone's descendant.

Interesting read? - Poems.

Just poems.

Did you not lose something?

Thank you.

How kind of you.

What does he want?

Your company in the Orangerie. But without the chaperoning of this awful court lady who guards you.

That would not be appropriate? - And this right here is appropriate?

More appropriate than boring conversations in the Orangerie.

Let us go. - Hey!

So you say, Maria Theresia is not preparing herself for the throne?

With all due respect for the princess, but the idea of it is grotesque.

Oh really?

And for what reason then did she carry documents about the structure of the Hungarian parliament to her rooms?

Our daughters do their needlework in the library.

And they repeat bible verses while doing so.

Take a look if you do not believe me. - Nikolaus, what are you doing?

How dare you to talk to The Empress like this?

If I am wrong, I sincerely apologize to Her Majesty.

England agreed...

I can explain.

I can explain that.

France was...

It is time, my child.

Are you willing to accept your punishment?

I am.

I do not deserve your love and also no forgiveness, Your Majesty.

So you are aware in what position you have put me and the dominions?

Yes.

I am aware.

France, the archenemy, is growing stronger.

The Bavarians mark territorial claims. The Prussians are arming themselves.

And the Hungarians are unpredictable.

Our situation is precarious.

And you, Prince, you wanted to guarantee the country's safety

and I spoiled all of it with my...

...childish and arrogant behavior.

I most humbly ask for forgiveness.

And I am sure The Duke of Lorraine thinks the same.

And he would surely give a lot to stand by our side in this precautious situation

and through that regain your favor.

He would, for example, give up his country.

Excuse me?

How in the world would Lorraine help us?

Not us. You are right about that, Prince.

But France marks territorial claims to Lorraine

and if we help them to get it, in return, they will surely agree to do something for us as well.

For example...

The recognition of the Pragmatic Sanction. - For example.

If Franz Stephan gives Lorraine away, he is a duke without a duchy.

Unless he receives Tuscany

through our support and, of course, that of the French.

And on top of that your hand? If I understood that correctly.

Under these circumstances, the marriage would not endanger the power structure in Europe.

We are counting our chickens before they have hatched.

What makes you so sure that Franz Stephan will be satisfied with your hand and the sun over Tuscany?

My love and my faith in God, Prince.

Gather the Imperial Assembly tomorrow. We will consider the suggestion.

With all due respect, Majesty, do you really think this is a good idea?

He is right. This is not a good idea.

Surely a better one than to send my daughter to a convent.

Spannagel!

Yes?

You spoiled everything. Do you know that?

Have you brought me here to mock me before the execution?

You are free.

The execution has been canceled.

Franz Stephan will return to the Hofburg.

Really?

Your smiling is tasteless, Spannagel.

You plunged the country into a disaster that will cost many lives.

Do not underestimate Maria Theresia. She will become a good ruler.

You turned her into a trained little monkey

who repeats some political phrases/buzzwords.

Do you really think that makes her a good empress?

Do you think she alone will keep the Hungarians in check, stand up to the Prussians?

You have saved your own head.

But in return, you have sent the whole country to the block.

May God forgive you.

Come into the carriage. - No.

Sitting on horseback for four days.

You are very... - Brave?

Sweaty.

Sitting next to my mother in the carriage, I will look like a child on its way to confirmation.

And where do you think you are going, my little son?

Next week there will be an anniversary hunt. Charles needs hunting companions.

He can also find them at Viennese court.

Well, I am educated and very charming.

I know how to have nice conversations, and additionally,

maybe he is making amends for my involuntary departure from Viennese court.

And why did he invite me as well?

Highness.

Mademoiselle de Chartres.

Allow the curious question. Where is the Archduchess?

According to protocol, the courting groom is not allowed to see the bride until the banns.

If you allow me this question, young man, who is the courting groom?

I was informed that your son has asked for Maria Theresia's hand in marriage.

Welcome, my precious son.

Does he know that he caught my attention before he did my daughter's?

He was just fifteen at the time but during the hunt a more skilled shooter than all of my counts combined.

Back then I asked God to give me a son like him.

I did not get the impression that you wanted me in the family, Majesty.

The sight of him reminded me that my own male heir was denied to me. That is all.

Today I know I can get something better.

A grandson of his blood.

He will be as skilled of a shooter as his father and a great ruler like me.

He will continue the glory of both our Houses.

So you are offering me marriage to Maria Theresia?

If his delegate negotiates with us, he will succeed.

And the conditions? - Excuse me?

You surely have a condition.

No condition.

Only a little humility, Franz.

We will need to get over Lorraine.

How do you mean that?

He will give Lorraine to the French.

and, in return, France will not obstruct the union of our two houses.

This way, he will secure the peace, Franz, and he will have my eternal gratitude.

You are not serious.

I am supposed to sacrifice my country to the French?

In exchange for the duchy of Tuscany and my daughter's hand.

That is madness!

The French have cast an eye on his country for a long time,

sooner or later they will invade.

Spare his people from a bloody war! - I should give up without a fight?

It is a victory,

not a loss.

Europe will be restructured.

And the House of Habsburg will be the victor.

I fear under these conditions, I must decline, Majesty.

He breaks my daughter's heart.

My daughter is determined.

It is now only up to him.

I nearly forgot how beautiful you are.

The Duke surely had been so occupied with government affairs he could not think of my humble self.

Turn your back on us, Duke.

Pretend to watch birds.

Fine. I will hypnotize the peacock over there. Is that alright?

Emperor Charles offers me Resi's hand.

So my prayers were answered? - Are you still able to talk normally, Resi?

During his last visit, he warned me that a private conversation would be against the protocol.

He was right. - Apologies, Highness.

I am deeply sorry for leaving you so alone in the gardens.

May I introduce you to the Counts Steiner and Böhm?

We would be honored to accompany you.

Your Serene Highness, Her Highness, Mademoiselle de Chartres, has arrived.

Dress me.

Come on. My frock-coat. My wig.

Or do you want me to stand in front of a lady looking like a living corpse?

Now come on! Presto!

The frock-coat.

Quick.

Cane.

What have you schemed up for my son, you old fox? Hm?

Franz Stephan is supposed to play the role of a useful idiot?

Your words, Mademoiselle.

But I could not have phrased it better myself.

You know I once saved Lorraine.

And now you expect my son to give it to the Bourbons as a present?

You are not only the most beautiful, but also the smartest duchess of the century.

Rather of the one before.

Speak freely with me, old charmer.

Emperor Charles does not consider for a second that my son might one day rule over the Habsburg dominions.

Compliment, Mademoiselle.

Again you have cut right to the chase.

His wife and children have a claim to the throne. He himself does not.

Well then, your desired marriage will unfortunately not happen.

We will not give up Lorraine.

You see, doctor? It is most important to never give up.

Do you even know how much I have sacrificed for Lorraine?

I, who was called the daughter of France, had to marry the Lorraine

and, on top of that, had to pour one million Livre into this damn country.

I know, maman.

If you marry her, you are going to be the knight of Hasnothing for the rest of your life.

And everyone is going to clean their boots on you. - Maman, this is...

And if, God forbid, something happens to her, they are going to take damn Tuscany from you too.

Your Highnesses, there you are.

The royal dressmaker asks to be received by you.

Do you finally understand?

Hunting companion? For them right here, you are the hunted deer!

The lady shot you, her father skins you,

And then they feed you to the French. - Apologies, the hunt is not a priority now, Mademoiselle.

The Spanish Court Ceremonial dictates that nobles wear black in the first three rows during a wedding.

Sir, believe me, if this marriage, contrary to my expectation, is going to happen, then only over my dead body.

In this case, all of you can wear black. If you like.

Including the groom and bride! Merde!

This way, please.

Maman?

And? Did he agree?

No.

He just does not want me.

You can still stab yourself like Shakespeare's Juliette.

Why did you not attend mass this morning?

I did not feel well.

Does that mean you are...

No.

No, my husband. The exact opposite.

I want you to go on another pilgrimage

to our God's mother in Mariazell.

But if Resi is getting married now, one day she will sit on the throne anyway.

If I have a son, she will surely not.

Maria and Franz Stephan will renounce their claim. - Papa!

This the condition for the wedding.

If we get a brother, then nothing will become of Franzl?

He will become The Grand Duke of Tuscany.

Exactly. Basically nothing.

Say something. You cannot want that.

For your sister it is only about love, not the throne, hm?

Good.

I agree to the condition.

I am supposed to give you this from Resi. A present from her.

What should I do with it?

Teach it to say Maria Theresia.

The world is complicated.

Excuse me?

Maybe back then in the gardens of Prague castle, I should have taken you into my arms instead of your sister.

Then everything would be easier.

Then you would have to teach it Anna now.

True. That would surely be easier.

Take it back to her, Anna.

And why?

Anna? Now speak. What did he say?

That...everything is so...awfully complicated.

What? I do not understand.

He wanted me too. What is so complicated about it?

It is difficult for him. - For him?

For both of you.

It is difficult for both of you.

And what else?

Anna!

Did he say something else? About me? About the wedding?

No, he did not say anything else.

Thank you.

Maria.

You asked for us, Majesty?

The painter wants to compose his painting.

If The Duke would be so kind to stand next to Her Highness?

Do you have a problem with that, Duke?

Majesty, are you sure that this is not a bit hasty?

On the contrary, The Empress will receive it for her birthday. So it is urgent.

I just asked so you do not need to have Franz Stephan painted over again in the end.

What I just want to remark is that there has been no official courtship, yet.

That is all.

Excuse me, my ears do not seem to function as well anymore,

I must have misheard that.

You do not seriously want to put the interests of your little duchy above those of the Holy Roman Empire?

Of course not.

Or do you care so little about Maria Theresien's heart?

Child, wait!

He does not want me. He just does not want me.

You will see, there will come another.

And then everything will be alright, Highness.

I do not want anyone else. I want to marry him, and...

no one will change that.

Not even Franz Stephan himself?

Not even him.

They say, you oppose the princess' wedding to Franz Stephan, The Duke of Lorraine.

Austria needs a strong ruler.

I thought we agreed on that.

Right.

We were. But that is in the past.

In the meantime, there have been big changes in Prussia, as you surely know.

The young Friedrich got married.

and before you know it he will be king.

Two cocks do not get along on a single midden heap. Europe does not need that.

You are a tiny flag in the wind, Grumbkow. A small breeze and you turn.

What is that sudden bitterness about, Serene Highness?

A safe and united Europe. That is what we wanted.

Exactly. Unity.

But not that Austria is free for Prussia's taking.

We absolutely need this wedding between Maria Theresia and this golden boy from Lorraine.

Make it happen. You will not regret it.

You already see yourself at the front of victorious armies, do you not, Marshall?

But I am not that weak already that I am not able to stop you.

This wedding will only happen over my dead body.

Close the window! Gadzooks!

What is knocking there, Serene Highness? Is the grim reaper knocking already?

I will prevent this marriage, Grumbkow.

I hope you still have time for that.

Adieu, my friend.

Prince Eugen has just fallen asleep. He does not wish to be disturbed.

But...

Does he want to disobey the order of his master?

According to the protocol, the members of the most important noble families must sit on red carpet at the table.

This includes everyone, even descendants of ruling houses,

meaning everyone who is styled Count, everyone who...

But so far, no one has asked for my hand in marriage.

You getting married does not worry me, Highness,

I only worry about the carpet. It is too short.

Then extend it. - Impossible, Highness. It will be visible.

We would offend all of those who sit on the extended end.

Then order a new one. - 50 klafter [~95 meters] of hand-woven carpet?

You are not serious, Highness.

If I, purely hypothetically speaking, had the honor of being invited to the archducal wedding

I would sit most delightedly on the carpet's extended end, Highness.

Actually, even on no carpet at all.

He, Marshall Grumbkow?

I am struggling to control my joy if I think about that you and Franz Stephan will soon...

I know. It is still a secret. What a blessing for Europe.

And of course as well for me personally.

Everyone signs the Pragmatic Sanction,

they recognize your succession and there will finally be peace in Europe.

The King of Prussia is not in the mood for loathing anymore?

Au contraire, he shares your joy, just like I do.

Since when are you and the whole of Prussia on my side, Marshall?

Since when?

Always.

This absurd idea to marry you to the young Friedrich

was cooked up by the Prince of Savoy alone.

I was only a simple middleman in this.

Why? Why should he have done this?

If this marriage had happened, he would have...

How should I say this? Had received advantages from it.

Recognition and surely a lot of money.

And I must admit, me too.

Prince Eugen let himself be bribed by Prussia?

How innocent your heart still is, Highness.

Once you will rule, you will notice that unfortunately sometimes quite dirty tricks need to be used in politics.

He wanted to sell me?

You are joking.

You are joking!

I am afraid I have no sense of humor, Highness.

That is surely my greatest flaw but also my greatest advantage.

Where is he?

He is dying. The priest is already with him.

If he is confessing his sins, I have just arrived in time.

Highness.

You want to sell my to Prussia?

I just wanted a protector by your side, no more than that, in case there will be war.

There will be no war.

France recognizes the Pracmatic Sanction, so there is no danger.

You are way too trusting, Highness.

My father thinks just like me. Do you doubt The Emperor's judgment?

He is kidding himself.

If you were not dying already,

I would have you executed for high treason.

You should go now, Highness. Prince Eugen is on his way to heaven's doors.

Highness.

When I am dead, look for someone like me.

You will need him so Austria will not perish in the slaughters to come.

Really? - Really.

And who would that be according to you?

Kinsky.

Philipp, Count Kinsky.

Kinsky?

Good.

I will throw him into the dungeons as soon as I meet him.

Maybe he never loved me.

Of course, does he love you.

You are the only one who understands me.

I want to be honest with you, peacock.

I will not ask for Resi's hand in marriage at tomorrow's feast.

Then tell me why.

Out of responsibility to my country.

I cannot sacrifice Lorraine like that. How did His Majesty even come up with such an idea?

Come to the library tonight. Then you will understand.

About c: "Lorraine dispensable." What is that supposed to mean?

It is an analysis of the political situation in Europe.

Her Highness Maria Theresia made it.

So all of it was her plan? She wants to rule that much?

This not about the throne, Franz Stephan, but about you.

She desires a life by your side that much.

What do the arrows mean?

Those are the countries that threaten Austria.

Prussia, Bavaria, France, the Ottomans.

Do you think there is threat of war for Austria?

There are many enemies. France, most of all.

I thank you.

It seems I will really end up in a convent.

Without a husband, without children,

Without a realm.

From the bottom of my heart, I would love to suggest the opposite.

Weird, is it not?

That I am so calm regardless.

I drink to the welfare of my wife, Her Majesty Elisabeth Christine.

May The Almighty bless her with health and further children.

As a sign of my appreciation, accept this painting.

A portrait of our darling daughter Maria Theresia with Franz Stephan, The Duke of Lorraine,

who may continue to stand by her side in the future.

Majesty, my sincerest congratulations to you as well. [Literally: wishes of luck/happiness]

Because happiness is usually rare in the life of a ruler.

I myself received a throne without ever asking for it.

How much I would love to live a normal life by the side of the young woman I love.

But the throne is not a toy.

What does it mean? A throne means responsibility.

A burden one cannot simply discard

except one exchanges it for a heavier one.

I asked God

and my conscience

under which circumstances I am allowed to sacrifice my country.

For example, for a country caught in a deadly hug by its enemies?

How could The Almighty have shown me the way better than through the path of love?

The love for a wonderful woman.

Maria Theresia is a hope for this realm and for me.

Never before have I met a creature so smart and strong at the same time.

Because of that I will accept the conditions required to ask for her hand in marriage with pleasure.

Long live Franz Stephan who I may call my son from this day forward.

Bravo!

You do not appear to be very delighted, Count Kinsky?

What is going on with you? Say something.

Only idiots praise the day before its end.

What does he want? - Who? - The padre over there.

Apologies, Majesty. I deliver sad news.

Prince Eugen of Savoy has just passed away.

What?

May he rest in peace.

Bravo!

Bravo!

Long may she live!

Good luck!

Francisce Stephane, vis accipere

Mariam Theresiam Walburgam Amaliam Christinam

hic praesentem in tuam legitimam uxorem?

Volo.

Volo.

Volo.

My darling. [Literally: My treasure.]

Please, all of you leave.

Leave! Go!

Come, my beloved.

Oh God.

I'll listen. - Go.

Oh Lord.

Wait.

Highness!

Highness.

Please forgive me but something horrible happened.

What?

Almighty, what happened here?

We worked faithfully on the task Your Majesty has bestowed upon us.

We just want to provide a male heir, Your Majesty.

And that over there?

The conception of an heir requires passion.

Au contraire. Something like this requires caution and most of all godliness.

Resi surely thought of our Lord the whole time.

For the next time around, I ask for more statesmanlike behavior on this mission.

Could His Majesty advise us on how that works? I mean properly.

Excuse?

The thing. How does it work? Statesmanlike?

Never quick. No Presto.

Always a nice...andante.

And most of all Silenzio, if I may ask for it.

Andante.

Silenzio. - Silenzio.

We should immediately try it out so we will not forget it, Resi.

That cannot be.

It is going on like this for the second day already.

It is her first child. That can take time.

But... - You must have patience.

No. I do not have any left.

In Austria, the doctor usually is not present during birth.

And in France? - It is differen there.

One does not give birth in a birthing chair but in bed. - Oh really?

Yes. - And that is possible?

Of course.

Make way.

It is not appropriate. - He shall make way!

No, Highness.

As soon as the child is born, we will inform you immediately, Highness.

No, I will inform you. - Men must not be present at a birth.

Come, Doctor! I need light. We must take her off of this torture chair.

Come, my dear, it is going to be fine in a moment.

Prepare warm water!

And make way.

Come on, take the chair away!

Breathe. Breathe. That is good.

The joy might not be the greatest, Highness. It is a girl.

But it is healthy.

She is just as beautiful as you are.

Look.

I am so happy.

In the morning, The Princess Maria Theresia gave birth to a girl,

who was baptized as Marie Elisabeth immediately.

The serenest puerpera, including the child, is doing fine...

And he should write below it: "The next time, we will be blessed with a male heir."

Maybe a more diplomatic wording, Highness? The parents are full of joy?

No.

Our princess gave birth to a daughter.

But we want a boy. - A daughter?

Can this Frenchman only produce daughters? Just wait, I'll show it to you.

Yes, so many people, are there not, girl?

Just look around.

Look! There are even more.

So many.

Do not be afraid, my girl. Come.

Highness, if you would be so kind to return Her Serene Highness to me?

Her Serene Highness surely wants to see the horse, does she not?

It is not appropriate to carry around babies who still need diapers. It is just because they smell bad.

No, everything is fine. - Highness.

A horse. Now you are marveled, are you not?

Your advice, usher.

How does one act when a royal daughter is born?

Should one congratulate them?

Or is it more appropriate to express condolences?

But my ladies!

The Lorraine seems to have no success in making boys.

Yes, stroke the horse.

My ladies, I beg you. Let us stop these jokes.

I fear without a male heir inside the Hofburg, such jokes are the only thing we have left.

You have received another healthy daughter, Highness. - Thank God!

What is it?

I fear His Imperial Majesty will be very saddened about it.

His Imperial Majesty did everything in his power so Habsburg's issues are not mine. So they are not.

By the way, to avoid further embarrassment at court, Maria and I will leave Vienna.

Why? Where do you want to go?

Someone must administer our Tuscany, do we not?

Look, your little sister.

That is your little sister. How beautiful she is.

[Florence 1740]

Supposedly the sun shines for 300 days each year around here.

In Vienna, it is hidden behind clouds for 300 days.

And you will not get homesick?

Who should I be homesick for?

For Anna?

I can write to Anna.

Today, 290 cloth making workshops exist in Florence.

On this subject, nobody can keep up with us.

I will show you something. If you allow me to.

Please. Here.

It looks like cotton.

But it is as fine as silk.

What is it?

Cotton.

Like he says, cotton.

But this one is made in London. In factories. In workshops with modern looms.

They produce at a several times bigger speed than we can.

Gentlemen, my plan is

to open the first factory of this kind here in the city.

I buy looms and invite the English masters to Florence.

We would love to share the costs.

Have you ever wanted to stop time?

For example, right now.

Highness.

Does he not want to introduce himself?

Count Philipp Joseph Kinsky.

I apologize for interrupting but I bring you... - Kinsky?

He was friend of Prince Eugen of Savoy.

I would have been happy to call the Prince my friend, but that would be presumptuous, but...

it is true, he was my role model.

And what does he want from us, Count Kinsky?

Unfortunately, I bring bad news, Highness.

His Imperial Majesty, Charles VI, suffered a severe hunting accident.

How bad is it?

He is dead, Highness.

My sincerest condolences.

Long live The Archduchess of Austria.

English subtitles by German Period Drama Translations. germanperioddramatranslations.tumblr.com