Books Features

New Medieval Books: History of the Venetian Dukes (1102-1229)

History of the Venetian Dukes (1102-1229): with an Appendix of Brief Venetian Historical Texts

Edited and translated by Luigi Andrea Berto

Centro di Studi Medioevali e Rinascimentali
ISBN: 9788896543313

This newly translated chronicle provides a rare Venetian perspective on twelfth-century events, including the latter parts of the Fourth Crusade. The volume also features translations of two additional texts: a brief set of annals and a firsthand account of the 1071 election of Domenico Selvo as Doge.

Excerpt:

The goal of this volume is to present the edition of the Latin text and the English translation of the Historia ducum Venetorum (History of the Venetian Dukes) which describes this period, is the first Venetian historical text composed after the Fourth Crusades, and is also the only extant chronicle composed in Venice after the beginning of the eleventh century,

Who is this book for?

This translation will be invaluable for those researching medieval Venice and the broader Mediterranean world during the 12th century. Unfortunately, a significant section of the chronicle—covering the years 1178 to 1203—is missing, which limits its scope. Even so, it offers valuable insights into the events surrounding the Fourth Crusade.

“This critical edition is to be applauded for its precision and interpretative accuracy. This book presents the multiple values of the Venetian chronicles that represent both historiographical documents and historical witnesses to the construction of Venice’s medieval identity.” ~ review by Valeria Russo in Speculum.

The Translator

Luigi Andrea Berto is Professor of History at Western Michigan University, where his research focuses on medieval Venice and Italy.

You can learn more about this book and buy it directly from the publisher’s website.