La Serenissima: Venice, Dawn of a New Power 2.0
- Thread starter Franciscus Caesar
- Start date
- Status
As I unsterstand it, larger and better armed ships. The Korean contribution included the famous "turtle" ships which apparently drove the Japanese nuts. The Ming /Koreans maintained superior naval artillery through both periods of the Imjin War. In the first, the Japanese ships apparently lacked cannon, altogether.
Unfortunately this may be misleading. Until the mid-eighteenth century, "Orientalism" in Europe was based on what was mentioned in the last part. Basically the translation of Asian texts, study of mostly classical Asian nations, and to a lesser degree an interest in the Ottoman Empire. Instead of being an actual field of study, Orientalism was basically a way to cater to the (exaggerated) European idea of Asiatic mystique and fantasy. Any works of meaning were translated and rationalized to fit the European ideals of "ours vs. theirs", or Asian cultures/ideas being different plays on current European ones. This can be seen from their views of Islam at the time, which was popularly called 'Mohameddanism'. They believed , wrongly, that Mohammed was Islam's version of Jesus, and therefore he was dubbed "the pretender". The Oriental schools worked to basically show this.
I think this may need some clarification, as some seem to be getting the wrong idea here: While Venice ITTL is more forward thinking than IOTL, I would still caution anyone to overstate the extent to just how much more, which isn't actually that much. At this point the Venetians are for the most part as ignorant and resistant of eastern ideals as IOTL, but have a greater demand for its goods. The relations between the Ottomans and Venice is far greater ITTL, but this is to achieve a common economic goal (as Irene put it, OTL Venice just stuck its head in the sand. Here its actually doing something), and is more specific to the upper levels of government and traders. Nothing has much has really been done to change the OTL public perception of the Ottomans (which in Venice wasn't all that negative. The republic was aware of its dependance on the Empire).
As you've said, this may have an influence in the "far future", but I just don't want anyone expecting something like a form of Buddhism appearing in Europe only to not see it happen.
The Triangular War. The Straits of Malacca is quite hectic around this time period, with the Aceh Sultanate, The Johor Sultanate and the Portuguese colony of Malacca all battling one another over supremacy of trade. If Venice could supply arms or team up with one of the powers (Johor and Aceh sought international help to tip the scales, even going so far as to seek Dutch and Ottoman help!), then it could have a friendly state to trade on, and count on, too.
Of course, Venice could just ignore it all and establish a colony at the Sunda Straits, in which it could really influence the world’s largest matrilineal society up in Central Sumatra: the Minangkabau. With some help, the Pagaruyung Kingdom (which was what it was called at the time) could very well end up as the true winner of the Triangular War, holding both the Malacca and the Sunda Straits!
Oh well, it’s all up to you.
If things continue as currently planned, the history of this area may play out quite differently. You'll have to see what butterflies appear
...Ok, I didn't factor in the views of the time. My bad.
BTW, did Vendramin ever found a place to finally put his Gran Cavallo?
...Ok, I didn't factor in the views of the time. My bad.
I didn't mean it in a reprimanding way, I'm sorry if I came across like that
It wasn't directed just for you, but as a general clarification for everyone. I meant no harm. TBH the clip which this is addressed in was deleted on my mac. By the time I realized this we had already progressed beyond when it would have been erected, so reference was just made to the statue itself. So I'm glad you brought it up!
The Gran Cavallo is located at the Campo San Polo. The Campo is still quite new, being entirely paved in 1493, and serves as the venue for many bullfights, mass sermons, and masked balls. This high traffic spot serves as the ideal place for the statue, as many can see it and awe at Vendramin's steed.
Also: Since early this morning this TL has now surpassed the original in terms of views. Awesome! This coincides perfectly with the end of Act 1, which will be seen in the next part that will be posted shortly.
Last edited:
Oh goody! And congratulations! The attention received is no doubt deserved. It is a marvellous ATL.
I'm also looking forward see to how the butterflies have been settling on the wider world. I'm sure the North and Baltic seas will be as different ITTL, as the Mediterranean and the Red.
Thanks all. Enjoy the conclusion to Act 1. I feel this is a good way to set the stage for the events that will unfold in the next act. There is much in store for La Serenissima. I hope my attempt at pros and unerlying story meaning is of acceptable grade.. Grazie!
Part 24: All That Glitters Isn’t Gold.
December: At a Christmas celebration da Vinci unveils his latest marvel to the Doge and those in attendance. This is praised as surely his most incredible invention yet, as the crowd simply can’t get enough of it. Commissioned by the state and named ‘El Leòn de San Marco’, the mechanical winged lion uses its legs to walk forward in a lifelike fashion. Its chest then opens for the Doge to reveal a trove of Christmas treasures. The Leòn just continues to push da Vinci’s superstar status ever higher if even possible; he is already viewed as a demigod to the people of Venice, and Europe in general.
To those responsible for overseeing the work for the mechanical spectacle, a sigh a relief is had. It’s been truly a nightmare getting the Leòn completed for the Christmas delivery date, and they place the full blame on da Vinci himself. Despite the artist’s age, da Vinci is still quite vivacious, as has been seen by his continued spending habits and desire to mingle with the Venetian upper-class. Leonardo often missed important benchmark deadlines for the Leòn, and never appeared to be devoted to the work as would be expected.
The overseers of his latest works aren’t the only ones complaining about da Vinci’s negligence towards his responsibilities in the face of his desire to live the good life. The chief military engineer has shrugged off many stately appointments and duties as well, leaving many of these instead in the care of GianPaolo Baglioni. This has developed into quite the article of contention between Doge Loredan, the Council of Ten, and Leonardo, culminating in a strange quasi-release of da Vinci from further duties.
A Venetian official writes “Upon his arrival in Venice, da Vinci’s disposition was one of pure adoration for all things, no matter how simple, and for all people, rich or poor. He was kind and generous, and commanded everyone’s affection. Nearly two decades later, while many of those traits remain, they are tainted with a personal bias for luxury and status. The artist has become far more akin to keeping rich friends in his presence than those of lesser means, and while his generosity has only increased, it has resulted in a near disregard for monetary value and saving. The humility he had come with it seems has vanished into the lagoon”.
January 12, 1519: Aged 59 years old, Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor and King of the Germans passes into The hands of the Holy Father at Wels, Upper Austria. With his death the Imperial election is catapulted to the forefront of European politics, as both the Francis and Charles vie for the position. Before his death, Maximilian had pledged the sum of 500,000 florins to the Electors in exchange for their votes to be placed in favour of his grandson Charles of Spain. With this development coming to light, Francis of France tops the late Maximilian’s offer, bidding up to 3 million.
While support for the two parties is split in Germany (many of the Electors promising to vote for both candidates simultaneously), in Italy support seems to sway in favour of Francis. This is primarily by Pope Leo, who is threatened by the presence of Spanish troops barely 40 miles from the Vatican. Venice also tentatively supports the French claim, fearing Charles’ view towards the republic’s unholy relation with the Ottomans, though Loredan opts to remain officially silent on the issue so as to watch how events play out.
February: Luther’s disputation begins circulating as far as France, England, and Italy. Everywhere his work is read students clamor to Wittenberg to hear him speak on the Church’s corruption, and what he views as the central truths of Christianity, with God’s grace through acceptance of Jesus was the way to salvation at its base.
Late February: After paying multiple hefty loans and expensive craftsmen from the extensive renovations at Ca’Vinci, as well as the costs of entertaining from the past Christmas season’s many lavish parties thrown at the palazo, the great da Vinci has already burned through much of his last cash infusion earned from the completion of El Leòn de San Marco. The artist is now without commission, as the majority of his time lately has been begrudgingly tied up on matters of state, including the Leòn itself. Leonardo knows finding work will be no problem for him; his fame ensures that he is the most demanded artist in Europe, and even the King of France has been requesting his presence for the last 3 years. However any such projects would take time and energy to complete, both of which he is convinced he doesn't have. Da Vinci needs a quick and easy source of revenues now to enable him to continue living the life he’s become accustomed to.
After spending the night in his office scribbling down plans from memory, making additions and taking away anything he deems useless, Leonardo rises early the next morning and heads straight to the Palazo Dogal, carrying his secret parchments of the night’s labours. Waiting in the Piaza San Marco to meet with Venetian officials later in the day, Leonardo runs into Gabriele Vendramin. The two haven’t seen each other since Christmas and catch up briefly. Vendramin asks about Ca’Vinci, and Leonardo inquires about his former patron’s bid for election to the Council of Ten…
By midafternoon Leonardo finally meets with the Doge and the Council of 10, who are both confused at what could possibly be the matter with their “military artist” now. Leonardo proceeds to explain to the attendees that he has recently developed an invention of “incredible benefit to the most Serene Republic”. He insists with an evidently inflated self-worth that for plans as potent as these, which he considers to be the crown jewel of Venetian defenses, a substantial price must be negotiated. He continues that the King of France would pay many florins for such a defense system that would make for ships to be “swallowed by fire from the sea”.
It is at this point that a veteran Council member of many terms over the past 30 years rises, and proceeds to describe a plan for an underwater manned vessel to surprised looks in the room. None more surprised however than da Vinci himself. The man continues that while serving on the Minor Consiglio as an advisor for Doge Barbarigo, a plan for such a venture was delivered to the Doge. Whereas the Doge considered it a” trinket” as he recalls, the councilor thought it to be an incredible idea, and continues that the plans and a rough prototype are currently stored in the Arsenal; its testing having been pushed back to cater to the demands of looming action against the Portuguese. Two other long serving Council members confirm this.
Da Vinci stands at the front of the room, stunned. He just had his most secretive work, one that was destroyed by fire nearly 20 years ago, recounted to him in detail. As some Council members begin to quip about how insulted they are by da Vinci and his behaviour as of late, Loredan calls for order. After a pause, the Doge asks da Vinci to kindly leave. He does so with not even a word.
Leaving the palace into the square, the city he adored just hours before is a stranger to him. The state acquired plans he had never formally shared knowledge of with, meaning one of his “friends” by some act of secrecy and espionage stole and awarded them to the state for their own personal gain. Such a surreptitious and deplorable act committed to serve their own selfish purpose for betterment of their status isn’t what troubles da Vinci the greatest though. Instead, it is how he just mimicked that very act of giving in to such a disgraceful act to better his own social standing and wealth, trading for its acquisition an invention which he thought of as able to commit incalculable destruction and loss of human life, which he valued so dearly, to the state.
Having written fables long ago to promote humility, endeavor, and the dangers of self-worth, the old da Vinci laments that under the spell of Venice, he has broken all these. In a pursuit of glory and fame that is ever prevalent today in the republic, da Vinci has sold what he valued most; his morals. He parallels this to the current state of the rich in Venice, who despite the crippling state of the current economy, continue to compete with each other under the immense pressures to maintain and acquire image, leading many to the brink of financial ruin.
“If Venice’s exterior is one of utopia, its innards are a foundry where morals and integrity are melted down in pursuit of an unachievable wealth. For what is wealth without virtue?” –Leonardo da Vinci, Majo, 1519.
March: Nearly a year after its successful acceptance in San Tomasso, cafè is brought by Venetian merchants to the lagoon, mostly in small quantities for the merchants themselves, who have become accustomed to drinking it. While the merchants are aware of the benefits of the drink, some of the more religious ones are concerned at the market feasibility of the product, considered a “Muslim drink”. The Pope has appealed the continent to ban Muslim drink in general, and this will pose an ostensible hurdle in raising awareness of the product. The merchants supply the Biblioteca Orientai with the drink for their studies of its “legitimacy in the Christian world”.
April: Much to the joy of both the Serene Republic and the Ottoman Empire, after 14 years of heavy labour, the Ptolmeic Channel is finally completed. At its mouth, the opening ceremony is attended by high ranking secular and religious officials from both nations, including the Patriarch of Venice, Pasha Hizir, Turgut Reis and Piri Reis. The ceremony is awkward, especially thanks to the attendance of Pasha Hizir, whose very presence draws awe, fear, and uneasiness from his European counterparts. The Pasha is currently embroiled with repelling the Spanish from Algeria, and has acquired the reputation of a ruthless pirate, referred to in Europe as “Barbarossa”. Many of the religious blessings being held separately, but overall the event is held as a mostly secular affair. The first ship that embarks into the Channel is the jointly-crewed, dual-named “Ł’Orientai” or “Oryantal” in Venetian and Turkish, respectively. This ship is merely a ceremonial utility to avoid any of the nation’s claiming that their ship went through first. The ship will meet a further opening ceremony as it arrives at the other end of the canal in Suez.
The Canal is touted as a wonder of the world that rivals the pyramids themselves, and as a testament to what man can achieve. It is believed that with this Channel cut through the mighty desert that Venice and the Ottomans will enter a new age of naval power, economic wealth, and exploration.
May 2: The news spreads like wild fire; whispered in the narrow streets, and yelled with anguish in the grand piaze. The city mourns the death of a great man on this day, someone who they regard as a hero who played a pivotal role not just in protecting the city through military designs, but infusing it with the spirit and beauty of the renaissance.
Leonardo di Ser Piero da Vinci was found dead this morning at his palazo, Ca’Vinci, by his close friend Giorgio Vasari. Vasari recounts that in the artist’s last days he requested a priest to make his confession and to receive the Holy Sacrament. He makes sure not to mention how tearful the late Leonardo became during the priest’s visits.
The decision is quickly made by the Doge and the Council of Ten that da Vinci is to be interred in the Basilica di San Giovanni e Paolo, a traditional burial place of the Doges. This is a great honour, last given to Bellini after his death just three years ago.
May 4: Da Vinci is given a stately funeral. In keeping with his will, 60 beggars follow Leonardo’s casket amidst the large crowd gathered to pay their last respects to the much loved Renaissance man. The mourners all recount stories of da Vinci, harping on his lovable disposition, love of life, and incredible generosity. A testament to that very generosity is made on this day, as Leonardo’s serving woman walks behind the casket in a luxurious black fur trim cloak. The cloak, of exceptional quality, was bought by da Vinci for the woman so that she could attend his funeral “respectably” attired, at no expense to herself. Friends of the late artist share the sadness of how quickly his condition deteriorated in the last couple of months, as Leonardo became a recluse thanks to what they attribute to the pains of his age.
Francesco Melzi, a close friend of Leonardo’s, is made the principal heir and executor, receiving in addition to money, the artist’s paintings, tools, and his beloved Ca’Vinci itself. Other companions of da Vinci’s, Salai and his servant Battista di Vilussis, each receive half of his vineyards, with his remaining land holdings going to his brothers.
Late May: Just weeks after the burial of his close friend da Vinci, Francesco Melzi leaves Venice. This is surprising to many, as Melzi had lived with Leonardo for the last 3 years, even being the only person the artist saw during his final two months. Melzi gives little explanation, other than he can’t stand to live in such a place any longer. This only adds to the confusion of his rush out of the city that Leonardo himself held so dear.
…
Estratto da el giornałe de Francesco Melzi: Majo, 1519 (Excerpt from the journal of Francesco Melzi: May, 1519): “Everyone is grieved at the loss of such a man that Nature no longer has it in her power to produce. A gift from The Holy God, spoiled by the creation of man and his vices. Such a man of humility and endeavor, and a proclaimer against the dangers of inflated self-worth, to parish by such circumstances under the eye of Saint Mark’s Lion. Truly its entire splendor is shrouded in greed and gluttony, so that I can take it no longer”.
FINE DE ATTO 1
Part 24: All That Glitters Isn’t Gold.
December: At a Christmas celebration da Vinci unveils his latest marvel to the Doge and those in attendance. This is praised as surely his most incredible invention yet, as the crowd simply can’t get enough of it. Commissioned by the state and named ‘El Leòn de San Marco’, the mechanical winged lion uses its legs to walk forward in a lifelike fashion. Its chest then opens for the Doge to reveal a trove of Christmas treasures. The Leòn just continues to push da Vinci’s superstar status ever higher if even possible; he is already viewed as a demigod to the people of Venice, and Europe in general.
To those responsible for overseeing the work for the mechanical spectacle, a sigh a relief is had. It’s been truly a nightmare getting the Leòn completed for the Christmas delivery date, and they place the full blame on da Vinci himself. Despite the artist’s age, da Vinci is still quite vivacious, as has been seen by his continued spending habits and desire to mingle with the Venetian upper-class. Leonardo often missed important benchmark deadlines for the Leòn, and never appeared to be devoted to the work as would be expected.
The overseers of his latest works aren’t the only ones complaining about da Vinci’s negligence towards his responsibilities in the face of his desire to live the good life. The chief military engineer has shrugged off many stately appointments and duties as well, leaving many of these instead in the care of GianPaolo Baglioni. This has developed into quite the article of contention between Doge Loredan, the Council of Ten, and Leonardo, culminating in a strange quasi-release of da Vinci from further duties.
A Venetian official writes “Upon his arrival in Venice, da Vinci’s disposition was one of pure adoration for all things, no matter how simple, and for all people, rich or poor. He was kind and generous, and commanded everyone’s affection. Nearly two decades later, while many of those traits remain, they are tainted with a personal bias for luxury and status. The artist has become far more akin to keeping rich friends in his presence than those of lesser means, and while his generosity has only increased, it has resulted in a near disregard for monetary value and saving. The humility he had come with it seems has vanished into the lagoon”.
January 12, 1519: Aged 59 years old, Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor and King of the Germans passes into The hands of the Holy Father at Wels, Upper Austria. With his death the Imperial election is catapulted to the forefront of European politics, as both the Francis and Charles vie for the position. Before his death, Maximilian had pledged the sum of 500,000 florins to the Electors in exchange for their votes to be placed in favour of his grandson Charles of Spain. With this development coming to light, Francis of France tops the late Maximilian’s offer, bidding up to 3 million.
While support for the two parties is split in Germany (many of the Electors promising to vote for both candidates simultaneously), in Italy support seems to sway in favour of Francis. This is primarily by Pope Leo, who is threatened by the presence of Spanish troops barely 40 miles from the Vatican. Venice also tentatively supports the French claim, fearing Charles’ view towards the republic’s unholy relation with the Ottomans, though Loredan opts to remain officially silent on the issue so as to watch how events play out.
February: Luther’s disputation begins circulating as far as France, England, and Italy. Everywhere his work is read students clamor to Wittenberg to hear him speak on the Church’s corruption, and what he views as the central truths of Christianity, with God’s grace through acceptance of Jesus was the way to salvation at its base.
Late February: After paying multiple hefty loans and expensive craftsmen from the extensive renovations at Ca’Vinci, as well as the costs of entertaining from the past Christmas season’s many lavish parties thrown at the palazo, the great da Vinci has already burned through much of his last cash infusion earned from the completion of El Leòn de San Marco. The artist is now without commission, as the majority of his time lately has been begrudgingly tied up on matters of state, including the Leòn itself. Leonardo knows finding work will be no problem for him; his fame ensures that he is the most demanded artist in Europe, and even the King of France has been requesting his presence for the last 3 years. However any such projects would take time and energy to complete, both of which he is convinced he doesn't have. Da Vinci needs a quick and easy source of revenues now to enable him to continue living the life he’s become accustomed to.
After spending the night in his office scribbling down plans from memory, making additions and taking away anything he deems useless, Leonardo rises early the next morning and heads straight to the Palazo Dogal, carrying his secret parchments of the night’s labours. Waiting in the Piaza San Marco to meet with Venetian officials later in the day, Leonardo runs into Gabriele Vendramin. The two haven’t seen each other since Christmas and catch up briefly. Vendramin asks about Ca’Vinci, and Leonardo inquires about his former patron’s bid for election to the Council of Ten…
By midafternoon Leonardo finally meets with the Doge and the Council of 10, who are both confused at what could possibly be the matter with their “military artist” now. Leonardo proceeds to explain to the attendees that he has recently developed an invention of “incredible benefit to the most Serene Republic”. He insists with an evidently inflated self-worth that for plans as potent as these, which he considers to be the crown jewel of Venetian defenses, a substantial price must be negotiated. He continues that the King of France would pay many florins for such a defense system that would make for ships to be “swallowed by fire from the sea”.
It is at this point that a veteran Council member of many terms over the past 30 years rises, and proceeds to describe a plan for an underwater manned vessel to surprised looks in the room. None more surprised however than da Vinci himself. The man continues that while serving on the Minor Consiglio as an advisor for Doge Barbarigo, a plan for such a venture was delivered to the Doge. Whereas the Doge considered it a” trinket” as he recalls, the councilor thought it to be an incredible idea, and continues that the plans and a rough prototype are currently stored in the Arsenal; its testing having been pushed back to cater to the demands of looming action against the Portuguese. Two other long serving Council members confirm this.
Da Vinci stands at the front of the room, stunned. He just had his most secretive work, one that was destroyed by fire nearly 20 years ago, recounted to him in detail. As some Council members begin to quip about how insulted they are by da Vinci and his behaviour as of late, Loredan calls for order. After a pause, the Doge asks da Vinci to kindly leave. He does so with not even a word.
Leaving the palace into the square, the city he adored just hours before is a stranger to him. The state acquired plans he had never formally shared knowledge of with, meaning one of his “friends” by some act of secrecy and espionage stole and awarded them to the state for their own personal gain. Such a surreptitious and deplorable act committed to serve their own selfish purpose for betterment of their status isn’t what troubles da Vinci the greatest though. Instead, it is how he just mimicked that very act of giving in to such a disgraceful act to better his own social standing and wealth, trading for its acquisition an invention which he thought of as able to commit incalculable destruction and loss of human life, which he valued so dearly, to the state.
Having written fables long ago to promote humility, endeavor, and the dangers of self-worth, the old da Vinci laments that under the spell of Venice, he has broken all these. In a pursuit of glory and fame that is ever prevalent today in the republic, da Vinci has sold what he valued most; his morals. He parallels this to the current state of the rich in Venice, who despite the crippling state of the current economy, continue to compete with each other under the immense pressures to maintain and acquire image, leading many to the brink of financial ruin.
“If Venice’s exterior is one of utopia, its innards are a foundry where morals and integrity are melted down in pursuit of an unachievable wealth. For what is wealth without virtue?” –Leonardo da Vinci, Majo, 1519.
March: Nearly a year after its successful acceptance in San Tomasso, cafè is brought by Venetian merchants to the lagoon, mostly in small quantities for the merchants themselves, who have become accustomed to drinking it. While the merchants are aware of the benefits of the drink, some of the more religious ones are concerned at the market feasibility of the product, considered a “Muslim drink”. The Pope has appealed the continent to ban Muslim drink in general, and this will pose an ostensible hurdle in raising awareness of the product. The merchants supply the Biblioteca Orientai with the drink for their studies of its “legitimacy in the Christian world”.
April: Much to the joy of both the Serene Republic and the Ottoman Empire, after 14 years of heavy labour, the Ptolmeic Channel is finally completed. At its mouth, the opening ceremony is attended by high ranking secular and religious officials from both nations, including the Patriarch of Venice, Pasha Hizir, Turgut Reis and Piri Reis. The ceremony is awkward, especially thanks to the attendance of Pasha Hizir, whose very presence draws awe, fear, and uneasiness from his European counterparts. The Pasha is currently embroiled with repelling the Spanish from Algeria, and has acquired the reputation of a ruthless pirate, referred to in Europe as “Barbarossa”. Many of the religious blessings being held separately, but overall the event is held as a mostly secular affair. The first ship that embarks into the Channel is the jointly-crewed, dual-named “Ł’Orientai” or “Oryantal” in Venetian and Turkish, respectively. This ship is merely a ceremonial utility to avoid any of the nation’s claiming that their ship went through first. The ship will meet a further opening ceremony as it arrives at the other end of the canal in Suez.
The Canal is touted as a wonder of the world that rivals the pyramids themselves, and as a testament to what man can achieve. It is believed that with this Channel cut through the mighty desert that Venice and the Ottomans will enter a new age of naval power, economic wealth, and exploration.
May 2: The news spreads like wild fire; whispered in the narrow streets, and yelled with anguish in the grand piaze. The city mourns the death of a great man on this day, someone who they regard as a hero who played a pivotal role not just in protecting the city through military designs, but infusing it with the spirit and beauty of the renaissance.
Leonardo di Ser Piero da Vinci was found dead this morning at his palazo, Ca’Vinci, by his close friend Giorgio Vasari. Vasari recounts that in the artist’s last days he requested a priest to make his confession and to receive the Holy Sacrament. He makes sure not to mention how tearful the late Leonardo became during the priest’s visits.
The decision is quickly made by the Doge and the Council of Ten that da Vinci is to be interred in the Basilica di San Giovanni e Paolo, a traditional burial place of the Doges. This is a great honour, last given to Bellini after his death just three years ago.
May 4: Da Vinci is given a stately funeral. In keeping with his will, 60 beggars follow Leonardo’s casket amidst the large crowd gathered to pay their last respects to the much loved Renaissance man. The mourners all recount stories of da Vinci, harping on his lovable disposition, love of life, and incredible generosity. A testament to that very generosity is made on this day, as Leonardo’s serving woman walks behind the casket in a luxurious black fur trim cloak. The cloak, of exceptional quality, was bought by da Vinci for the woman so that she could attend his funeral “respectably” attired, at no expense to herself. Friends of the late artist share the sadness of how quickly his condition deteriorated in the last couple of months, as Leonardo became a recluse thanks to what they attribute to the pains of his age.
Francesco Melzi, a close friend of Leonardo’s, is made the principal heir and executor, receiving in addition to money, the artist’s paintings, tools, and his beloved Ca’Vinci itself. Other companions of da Vinci’s, Salai and his servant Battista di Vilussis, each receive half of his vineyards, with his remaining land holdings going to his brothers.
Late May: Just weeks after the burial of his close friend da Vinci, Francesco Melzi leaves Venice. This is surprising to many, as Melzi had lived with Leonardo for the last 3 years, even being the only person the artist saw during his final two months. Melzi gives little explanation, other than he can’t stand to live in such a place any longer. This only adds to the confusion of his rush out of the city that Leonardo himself held so dear.
…
Estratto da el giornałe de Francesco Melzi: Majo, 1519 (Excerpt from the journal of Francesco Melzi: May, 1519): “Everyone is grieved at the loss of such a man that Nature no longer has it in her power to produce. A gift from The Holy God, spoiled by the creation of man and his vices. Such a man of humility and endeavor, and a proclaimer against the dangers of inflated self-worth, to parish by such circumstances under the eye of Saint Mark’s Lion. Truly its entire splendor is shrouded in greed and gluttony, so that I can take it no longer”.
FINE DE ATTO 1
Last edited:
Thus passes the incomparable da Vinci. That was a sad ending....
Great 1st Act!
Great 1st Act!
Well said. He was truly one of a kind, IOTL and ITTL
Agreed. It was actually worse, I spent last night making it a bit lighter. It had to be done. If Venice has any hope of becoming a player beyond the Med it has to gain a new, aggressive personality. Otherwise it stays content to become dwarfed by the powers of those who surround it.
Grazie, and thanks for your contributions. It was from your comment in the original that I started rewriting, so thank you
Thanks! So glad you enjoyed it.
So ends the life of an incomparable figure.
I’m curious though, about the slaves whom have worked hard on building the channel. What shall happen to them now? Will they be sold to new masters? Or will they stay there and create a difference in demographics around the region?
Other than that, on to the Second Act!
I’m curious though, about the slaves whom have worked hard on building the channel. What shall happen to them now? Will they be sold to new masters? Or will they stay there and create a difference in demographics around the region?
Other than that, on to the Second Act!
I've been thinking about the Crimean slaves in the Suez, too. If they were to settle in or around OTL Ismailia, or elsewhere in Sinai, a Slavic presence in the area may give somewhere for East European Jews to emigrate to later, in order to avoid persecution, pogroms, and other beastlinesses. Venetian protection would help also, and give the Ghetto increased influence.
But on another subject, this is a marvellous update. I'm very much looking forward to act two. (Are we getting Two, Three, or Five acts?
)I've been thinking about the Crimean slaves in the Suez, too. If they were to settle in or around OTL Ismailia, or elsewhere in Sinai, a Slavic presence in the area may give somewhere for East European Jews to emigrate to later, in order to avoid persecution, pogroms, and other beastlinesses. Venetian protection would help also, and give the Ghetto increased influence.
But on another subject, this is a marvellous update. I'm very much looking forward to act two. (Are we getting Two, Three, or Five acts?
Although I can see the latter, I don't see a Slavic presence as being necessarily Jew-friendly. You'd need to elaborate on why you think it would be so. The Ottomans were aminable to Jewish immigration OTL anyways.
Last edited:
Indeed, it might not necessarily be Jew-friendly, but considering it would be a small Orthodox/Catholic community in an Islamic environment, religious tolerance may become ingrained fairly quickly. (Of course, the opposite may happen and they go bat-shit Christian-only crazy, but that would not be a particularly conducive to survival in their new circumstances.) There is a good chance that a Slavic Sinai enclave would see Jewish immigration from the OTL Pale and environs as a boost to their linguistic community, rather than a hinderance to their religious one.
Also, with Venetian power now being projected into the Sinai peninsular, the Ghetto Jews may well gain interest in the area, or want to relocate there entirely, which would encourage other Jews to the region.
It's just a thought, but it's an interesting one.
Too early to shout "We want more"? Because I have the urge to shout. Excellent writing, makes me wonder what you could achieve if ya ever published any of this.
Excellent writing, makes me wonder what you could achieve if ya ever published any of this.Lucius Verus
Banned
What are the Venetian opinions towards cats? I'm aware that the Europeans weren't very fond of cats, but then there was still the material necessity of maintaining grain stocks especially for sailors.
Given OTL's Islamic fondness of cats and with Venice's a greater presence in the near east I think that they would be more fond of cats. One example was the fact that the prophet Mohammed himself claimed to have been saved from a snake by his cat, another was the fact that cats often protected the paper works of Islamic scholars and holy men and was thus almost a requirement for someone of social standing.
Given OTL's Islamic fondness of cats and with Venice's a greater presence in the near east I think that they would be more fond of cats. One example was the fact that the prophet Mohammed himself claimed to have been saved from a snake by his cat, another was the fact that cats often protected the paper works of Islamic scholars and holy men and was thus almost a requirement for someone of social standing.
IN regards to the Crimean slaves; they haven't been forgotten. With the Ptolmeic now completed they will be addressed soon.
TBH the thought of ending "Act One" was thought up a week prior to posting, when I realized that the Leonardo post couldn't be split into 2 parts. The events in the last part just seemed like a natural end point, finally giving TTL's Venice an image of its own IMO.
Looking forward I can see how the second act can shape up. So yes, I guess we'll have acts now.Though they won't be named, as I only have a general idea of what will happen in each, and not many specifics that would lend an accurate characteristic to the act's title.
... But this can change.
You're far too kind! Very flattering comment. More will come soon enough.
Cats actually have an integral spot in Venetian society, loved by the city for keeping the infectious rat population down and IIRC often credited even in this time for keeping plague away from the city. In fact when the government tried to limit the cat populations the citizens actually took offence and protested any such attempts.
I guess the Islamic views on cats would mix with Venetian ones in areas where the cultures meet, such as Africa and the Indian Ocean.
But on another subject, this is a marvellous update. I'm very much looking forward to act two. (Are we getting Two, Three, or Five acts?
TBH the thought of ending "Act One" was thought up a week prior to posting, when I realized that the Leonardo post couldn't be split into 2 parts. The events in the last part just seemed like a natural end point, finally giving TTL's Venice an image of its own IMO.
Looking forward I can see how the second act can shape up. So yes, I guess we'll have acts now.Though they won't be named, as I only have a general idea of what will happen in each, and not many specifics that would lend an accurate characteristic to the act's title.
... But this can change.
Too early to shout "We want more"? Because I have the urge to shout.
You're far too kind! Very flattering comment. More will come soon enough.
Cats actually have an integral spot in Venetian society, loved by the city for keeping the infectious rat population down and IIRC often credited even in this time for keeping plague away from the city. In fact when the government tried to limit the cat populations the citizens actually took offence and protested any such attempts.
I guess the Islamic views on cats would mix with Venetian ones in areas where the cultures meet, such as Africa and the Indian Ocean.
<.< >.>
Oh. Me!
Don't fret, the TL is still very active. I've taken the time since the ending of Act 1 to collect and better define my ideas for act 2, which by its nature is proving to be more intense so far. it's a very busy time for me this next week, but I would like to have the beginning of act 2 up around Friday.
- Status