In this engaging discussion, Kathryn Taylor, Assistant Professor of History at the University of Tennessee Chattanooga and author of "Ordering Customs," unpacks the vibrant cultural tapestry of early modern Venice. She delves into how Venetians navigated religious and cultural differences amidst increasing global contact. Taylor reveals the unique interplay between diplomacy and ethnographic thought, showcasing how ordinary citizens contributed to the understanding of diverse customs. Her insights highlight Venice's pivotal role in shaping governance and identity through the lens of ethnography.

Kathryn Taylor, Assistant Professor of History at the University of Tennessee Chattanooga, delves into her book on early modern Venice. She discusses how Venetians navigated cultural differences amid global contact, utilizing ethnographic writing to influence state governance over minority populations. The conversation highlights the role of informal observations in shaping cultural understandings and reviews Venice's unique position as a diplomatic hub. Taylor also sheds light on the complexity of ethnographic thought within the social and political frameworks of the time.