Maximilian and Marie De Bourgogne (2017)

Maximilian and Marie's marriage is fraught with political tension as they navigate the complexities of uniting their respective territories. Marie, the heiress of Burgundy, is under immense pressure to secure her family's legacy, while Maximilian, representing the Habsburgs, must balance his ambitions with the expectations of his own family. Their differing priorities lead to conflicts, particularly when Marie's desire for independence clashes with Maximilian's need for political consolidation.

Initially, Maximilian and Marie's relationship is one of political convenience, but as they face external threats and personal losses, their bond deepens. They experience moments of tenderness and shared grief, particularly after the death of Marie's father, which forces them to rely on each other. However, their relationship is also tested by jealousy and ambition, especially as Marie struggles with her role as a ruler and a wife.

Charles the Bold, Marie's father, is a pivotal character whose ambitions and decisions set the stage for the political landscape of the series. His desire to expand Burgundy's power creates tension with neighboring territories and ultimately leads to his downfall. His relationship with Marie is complex; he is both a protective father and a domineering figure whose expectations weigh heavily on her, influencing her choices and her marriage to Maximilian.

The series vividly portrays the historical conflict between the Habsburgs and the Burgundians through intense political maneuvering and military confrontations. Maximilian's efforts to unite the Habsburgs with Burgundy through his marriage to Marie are constantly undermined by rival factions and external threats. The tension escalates as both sides engage in strategic alliances and betrayals, showcasing the brutal realities of power struggles during the late 15th century.

Marie's struggle for power is central to her character arc, as she grapples with the limitations imposed on her by her gender and societal expectations. Throughout the series, she seeks to assert her authority as a ruler in her own right, often clashing with Maximilian's ambitions. Her determination to protect her inheritance and her people drives her actions, leading to moments of both vulnerability and strength as she navigates the treacherous waters of political intrigue.