inally got down to reading the 4 scenes. I made a few notes. Appreciate the time and effort you put in on the project. Your writing ability shines through in description of the events, the characters and the era. The main problem I see is too much back story or exposition. Many plays have exposition including mine (See Taylor in Viva) A play requires conflict--the sooner we get to the opening conflict the better. The opening conflict I see occurs in The Cortez. Its possible that one Knight opposed Berenguera's appointment of of Fernando--prior to assembly's approval. Maybe even likely. "He's too young". "inexperienced". We are dealing with a vicious enemy. The Knight speaks of cruelty, enslaving women etc, etc. NOTE. Berenguera can respond. She opens curtain. TO: Knight: Look out here sir. Show Fernando in prayer before the Madonna---for two hours. Other Knights indignant at fellow Knight. Some more arguments follow. Until fina...