The History of the Venetians by John the Deacon: A Critical Edition and Translation of 'Istoria Veneticorum'

Between the late sixth and the early eleventh century, Venice underwent huge changes. From the periphery of the Byzantine Empire, Venice acquired complete independence and emerged as the major power in the Adriatic Sea. This volume presents the analysis, edition of the Latin text, and English translation of the Istoria Veneticorum (History of the Venetians) by John the Deacon, which is the first Venetian chronicle and the main source for the history of Venice in the early Middle Ages. It was probably written by John the Deacon, who was ambassador and chaplain of the Duke of Venice Peter Orseolo II (991-1008).]The chronicle reports events beginning from the Lombard invasion of Italy in 568/569, which forced a part of the north-eastern Italian population to flee to the Venetian lagoon, up to Duke Peter II Orseolo's rule. The main thread of the work is the narration of what took place during the rule of each duke, but there are also references to episodes not concerning Venetian history. For example, events about the Slavs in Dalmatia and Croatia, the Byzantines, and the military activities of the Muslims in southern Italy. The volume therefore offers a relevant contribution for a better understanding of early medieval Venetian, Italian (and Mediterranean) history. The book will appeal to scholars and students of medieval Venice, as well as all those interested in medieval Europe and the medieval Mediterranean.

About the Author

Luigi Andrea Berto is professor of Medieval History at Western Michigan University, USA. His research focuses on Medieval Italy and the Mediterranean, with a special interest in the use of the past in the medieval and modern periods, and the relationships between Christians and Muslims.