Messina Volume 1 | Page 5

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The drama does not offer a specific description about Messina. If you watch the play, you can kind of get an idea about the landscape details. Overall, there is no place in the play where it comes straight out and gives you a specific description about Messina.

What was Going on in Italy at the Time the Play was Written?

In the 17th century, the Italian economy fell into a long recession, because the France and Spain were fighting over Italy. Trade and industry declined due to the falling of the importance of Mediterranean trade and the rising of trade outside of Europe. Poverty started to increase dramatically. The result of all this caused Italy to fall under a plague. Spain won, so they still ruled southern Italy.

Duomo Square in Messina

How Does the Drama Describe Messina?