Want to know where The Merchant of Venice is set?
Well, no prizes for guessing Venice! But read on for all the details of where each scene in the play is located.
Shakespeare’s The Merchant Of Venice is set in Renaissance Venice, with a few scenes in a fictional Italian town called Belmont. The setting is important – Venice was one of the wealthiest towns in Europe, as it was right on the sea, with excellent shipping facilities for trading with the east.
There was a big Jewish population, and a ghetto, where they lived. They were hated by the Christian community, although its members went to the Jewish moneylenders when they needed to – as occurs in this play. The play is partly about the relationship between Jews and Christians who have to live side by side in a very small space. The story springs from that clash in Venice.
The map below shows all the locations Shakespeare used for The Merchant of Venice. You can zoom in on the map for a more detailed view of an area, and click the icons on the map for more information.
Planning in Following in Shakespeare’s Footsteps With a Trip to Venice?
We’ve pulled together some of the very best Venice resources from travel writers and bloggers to help you get the most out of your trip:
9 must-have Venice experiences, courtesy of Globe Trekkers.
Mamma Prada share 7 unusual things to see and do in Venice.
Erika’s Travels describe how to explore the Venice lagoon area.
Shopping for Venice Carnival costumes, courtesy of Nylon Living.
Nick Kimbel discusses taking a honeymoon in Venice.
World Of Lina give their take on Venice for first timers.
In Africa And Beyond share their top 10 things to do in Venice.
Outdoor Suburbia share their Venice with kids itinerary.
Discover the most romantic hotels in Venice, curated by Sand In My Suitcase.
A backpackers guide to Italy, from Nomllers.
How much does it cost to live in Italy? Monday Feelings give their expert opinion.
The most romantic destination in the world – including Venice – from Hungry Young Woman.
Know of any great Venice travel resources? Please let us know in the comments section below!
Braun & Hogenberg’s 1572 map of Venice
When is it set?
THIS DOES NOT SAY ANYTHING ABOUT WHEN IT WAS SET. NOT HELPFUL.
it says ‘where’, not ‘when’
Yes
Yes it does: Renaissance Venice.