Casanova

- Season 1

(2005)

Casanova is an infamous name for scandal, treason and sex, and the first episode chronicles the first half of his life. Told to us by an old, downtrodden Casanova as he recounts his life to a young and curious maid, the story starts with his lonely childhood, follows through some of his love-struck adventures and describes the love of his life, Henrietta. As quickly as Casanova rose, he fell, because the man never truly wanted fame or money, all he ever wanted was to love.

Casanova flees Venice, taking with him Giac, his young illegitimate son by a previous liaison, and Rocco, his servant. He heads for Paris, as he knows that Venetian ambassadors abroad are able to grant pardons.

The young Casanova's adventures take him to London where he glimpses Henriette and tricks his way into court circles and to Naples where he meets an old friend. Still living on his wits, Casanova makes and loses fortunes and also enjoys other conquests. Back in the present, Edith realises that Casanova is now very sick and nearing his end. Edith tells Casanova that Henriette, who had died six months previously, is coming to visit as Casanova slowly dies smiling.