The Venetians: A New History: From Marco Polo to Casanova

The names imparted by his subtitle may be notable, but they’re not the most intriguing characters in this study, as Strathern (Napoleon in Egypt) grasps the opportunity to introduce readers to figures mostly lost to history. Thus he offers the stories of Queen Caterina, ruler of Cyprus for a few short years and prisoner for many more; and the minor trade consul, Francesco Lupazzoli, who lived to be 115 years old and is said to have fathered 24 children through his five marriages—plus potentially another 105 illegitimate offspring. Strathern also profiles generals like Lamba Doria and Niccolò Pisani who led epic naval battles of varying outcomes; and a repressive ruling body that eventually made such bad decisions that it caused the downfall of a “most serene” republic that had existed for a 1,000 years. With Venice shining brightly in the background as a pleasure site, where the idea of the casino originated and as many as 15,000 prostitutes may have been working during the 16th century, the story is less about Venice than of those who populated it and brought much renown: artists, mathematicians, holy men, and beautiful women. Strathern weaves an engrossing tale replete with intriguing sub-plots, emphasizing the human aspect with great feeling. (Dec.)