Map Monday – Pale Mistress of Venice and Cyprus

Submitted: 19th October 2026

Pale Mistress of Venice and Cyprus

Where are we going?

Ever read Shakespeare’s Othello? Only one woman survives, Bianca.

We go to Cypus and Venice to find out more….

boarding pass new

The setting:

Othello is set in two primary locations: Venice (Act I) and the island of Cyprus (Acts II–V). The setting transitions from the organized, civilized power structure of Venice to the chaotic, isolated military outpost of Cyprus, which serves as the backdrop for the tragedy.

This book reflects those settings and structure. Othello takes place during the late 16th century – the 1570–1571 historical period when the Turkish fleet threatened Cyprus

Braun & Hogenberg’s 1572 map of Venice

Review

Naomi has a unique skill when it comes to bringing the past to life. She writes as almost with a quill, such is her attention to detail and craft. This story made me question what I know of Shakespeare and really see the characters as real people. I truly enjoyed feeling part of the play, and not a bit player at the side of the stage if you will.

You really don’t need to read Othello before reading this. And whatever you do, don’t think urgh Shakespeare, I’m not going to read this. It’s easy to read being written in non Shakespeare English 😉 and it’s pretty darn good.

Serve yourself an ale and then tuck into this fine story.

Key quote:

“Let heaven and men and devils, let them all, all, cry shame against me, yet I’ll speak…”