The Serenissima Republic fell to the French in 1797 and its final century of power appears concentrated on life's more exterior and frivolous pleasures, although in reality the situation was far more complex.

During this period Carnival, with its parties, entertainments, masks, theatres and public gaming house, became a tourist attraction for the whole of Europe, welcoming thousands of visitors eager to experience its extremely unusual and effervescent atmosphere, with Venice itself becoming "The Magnet of Europe".

Carlo Goldoni

In the plays of Carlo Goldoni (1707-1793), Carnival is mentioned so often that his work has become an important source of documentation.

His works were often shown during the long carnival season, which we find mentioned in some of his most famous plays, such as La vedova scaltra, Le massere, Le morbinose, I rusteghi, and Una delle ultime sere di Carnovale.

Goldoni's attitude to the luxury and ostentation of carnival is certainly not benevolent, with his plays suggesting a more simple and moderate form of entertainment.
 

Casanova, myth and reality

He probably best personifies the pleasure-seeking, lustful and decadent aspects of 18th century Venice.

Although a complex and articulate man, in life he was considered a sorcerer, man of letters, spy, libertine, fugitive, inveterate gambler, forger, traitor, seducer, cardsharp, poet, slanderer, atheist, cheat, rogue, blasphemer and alchemist.

Protected by his mask, he attended the best salons, the most fashionable theatres and Il Ridotto, where he squandered gold ducats at the gaming tables, and did not disdain from frequenting even the most squalid brothels: wherever he went, he left a trail of scandal behind him.