http://www.youtube.com/v/vN21Qkl1bxM
While I like to consider myself a fairly savvy and perceptive fellow, I admit that this entire metaphor was lost on me as I watched the show. (I was also washing the dishes, so perhaps I might be excused).
All that said, he nails it, and so does Madonna. I did not give her much credit for the production, because I didn't see the message.
When the Romans were marching on initially, I wondered about the connotation, but it ended there. (Scrubbing pots was more pressing... Had to make it in time for the next round of Gladiators... errr Football)
Still, I think Prince has put up the best H/T show, but Madonna has given us something more than a piece of entertainment. She showed us truth.