Popular Politics in an Aristocratic Republic

This book examines the political dynamics of Venice from the late medieval to early modern periods, emphasizing popular participation and contestation. Popular Politics in an Aristocratic Republic offers a fresh perspective.

The book Popular Politics in an Aristocratic Republic delves into the intricate political landscape of late medieval and early modern Venice, highlighting the diverse experiences and actions that shaped the city's governance. It serves as a crucial resource for those studying Venetian history, as well as the broader contexts of medieval and early modern Italy and Europe, and offers insights into political and social history.

Challenging the perception that Venice was devoid of political conflict during this era, Popular Politics in an Aristocratic Republic investigates the various forms of popular political engagement and contestation that emerged. The narrative begins in the late fourteenth century, a period marked by significant demographic shifts following the Black Death, which empowered ordinary citizens to challenge the ruling elite. The book culminates in the late eighteenth century, during the upheaval caused by the French invasion that ultimately dismantled the Venetian Republic.

By integrating contemporary historiographical methods with traditional themes of Venetian history, Popular Politics in an Aristocratic Republic presents a fresh perspective on the role of ordinary Venetians in the political sphere. It emphasizes the importance of popular participation and the consequences of political contestation, illustrating how these dynamics influenced the governance of a city renowned for its complexity and diversity. This comprehensive examination is essential for anyone interested in understanding the political fabric of Venice during these transformative centuries.