Summary

Pope Julius, listening to architect and politician extraordinaire Bramante, has decided to build a new St. Peter’s Cathedral, presumably the place where his tomb—replete with marble statuary—will be placed. The commission goes to Bramante, rather than Michelangelo’s friend Sangallo. After seeing the plans, Michelangelo is forced to admit Bramante’s vision is far superior. But the Pope will not authorize more money for marble, even though additional shipments now wait at a dock on the Tiber. In fact, the Pope even refuses to see Michelangelo. Frustrated, Michelangelo leaves Rome, sending a note to the Pope and slipping out that same night.

Armed guards, under the leadership of Michelangelo’s friend Leo Baglioni, track him down, but Michelangelo refuses to return, saying “no one should ask another man to surrender his pride.” He ignores the Pope’s “request” and continues on to Florence...