Who were the Venetians in Shakespeare time?

During Shakespeare's time, the Venetians referred to the people of the city-state of Venice, also known as the Venetian Republic. Venice was a prominent maritime power and a prosperous trading hub in the 16th and 17th centuries. It had a rich cultural and artistic heritage and was a patron of the arts, fostering advancements in art, music, and literature. Venice played a significant role in European politics and commerce, maintaining relations with other nations and states throughout the Mediterranean and beyond.

In Shakespeare's works, such as Othello and The Merchant of Venice, he presents some of the cultural intricacies and societal dynamics within Venice. These plays offer glimpse into Venetian high society, merchant families, political intrigue, and social customs