Politics and Diplomacy in Early Modern Italy

This book provides an in-depth look at the foreign policies and diplomatic practices of major Italian states during the early modern period, including Venice and the Papal States.

In Politics and Diplomacy in Early Modern Italy, the author embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the intricate foreign policies and diplomatic practices of Italy's major states during the early modern period. This groundbreaking volume serves as the first comparative reconstruction of these dynamics, focusing on key players such as Venice, the Papal States, the duchy of Savoy, Florence, Mantua, Modena, and the kingdom of Naples. Each state, while perhaps considered minor in the broader European context, demonstrated a robust diplomatic presence that paralleled that of the major powers of the time.

The book delves into the various instruments and forms of foreign relations that characterized the Italian peninsula. It presents a range of case studies and models that reflect the political concepts and cultural values that shaped diplomatic practice in the ancien régime. Through detailed analysis, the author highlights the unique contributions of each state, revealing how their diplomatic activities were not only significant but also essential to understanding the political landscape of early modern Italy.

By reconstructing the roles of ambassadors, secretaries, and the ceremonial aspects of diplomacy, Politics and Diplomacy in Early Modern Italy offers a fascinating interpretation of the political history of the era. It invites readers to appreciate the complexity and richness of Italian diplomacy, shedding light on the interconnectedness of these states and their influence on the broader European stage.