Watch Saints & Sinners: The History of the Popes

Saints & Sinners: The History of the Popes is a fascinating documentary series from FilmRise that delves deep into the lives, legacies, and controversies surrounding the most powerful religious leaders in the world - the Popes. Narrated by acclaimed broadcaster Anthony Clare, this series is a quintessential guide to the history of the papacy and will keep viewers hooked from start to finish.

Over six episodes, Saints & Sinners: The History of the Popes offers a comprehensive overview of the papacy from its earliest days to the modern era. It meshes together archival footage, scholarly interviews, and dramatic reenactments to narrate the tale of the papal office's evolution and its impact on world history. Each episode is packed with insightful analysis, intriguing characters, and unexpected twists and turns.

The first episode sets the stage for the rest of the series by chronicling the papacy's humble beginnings and its journey to become one of the most powerful institutions in the world. It traces the evolution of the papacy from St. Peter, considered the first Pope, to Pope Gregory I, who is often called the father of the medieval papacy. The episode touches upon the early schisms and controversies that plagued the papacy and lays the groundwork for subsequent episodes.

The next episode dives deeper into the papacy's history by focusing on some of the most influential Popes in history. From the warrior Pope Julius II to the controversial Pope Alexander VI, the episode offers a detailed look at how individual Popes shaped the papacy and how their reigns shaped the world around them. It also highlights the inherent tensions between the papacy's spiritual and temporal authority, tensions that would continue to impact the papacy throughout its history.

The third episode focuses on the papacy's struggle for power and influence during the Renaissance period. It explores the papacy's role in the Italian Wars, the Inquisition, and the Protestant Reformation. It introduces viewers to some of the most fascinating figures in papal history, including Pope Sixtus IV, Pope Leo X, and Pope Clement VII. It also offers a window into the complex world of Vatican politics and the intrigues that took place behind closed doors.

The fourth episode takes the series into the modern era by tracing the papacy's role in the French Revolution, the rise of the Italian state, and World War I. It explores the changing nature of the papacy's relationship with the secular world and the challenges it faced as it struggled to maintain its relevance in an increasingly modern and secular world. It also examines the role of the papacy in the rise of fascism and the Holocaust, moments in history that would continue to haunt the papacy long after they ended.

The fifth episode offers a closer look at the most recent Popes, including Pope John XXIII, Pope John Paul II, and Pope Francis. It explores how the papacy has tried to adapt to the changing times and remain relevant in the modern world. It examines the role of the papacy in the Cold War, the fall of communism, and the rise of globalization. It also delves into the controversies that have plagued the papacy in recent decades, such as the priest abuse scandal.

The sixth and final episode of Saints & Sinners: The History of the Popes offers a sweeping overview of the papacy's legacy and impact on world history. It examines the ways in which the power and influence of the papacy has waxed and waned over the centuries and how its legacy continues to be felt today. It also offers a fascinating look at the future prospects of the papacy and how it will continue to adapt to a changing world.

Overall, Saints & Sinners: The History of the Popes is an engaging and informative series that offers an unparalleled look at one of the world's most powerful institutions. Narrated by the talented Anthony Clare, it features compelling storytelling, expert analysis, and fascinating characters. Whether you're a history buff, a religious scholar, or just someone looking for an interesting and engaging series, Saints & Sinners: The History of the Popes is definitely worth checking out.