#montecchi

Legend goes, that the Montecchi’s ancestors were simple weavers. Well, such rumours (even if spread by the Capuletti) were never disputed by members of the family. But money and clever investment founded their power position within Verona’s finest circles. The Bank of Montecchi is counted among the most renowned of Italy. Some of the most illustrious Veronese citizens owe money to them and the Montecchi know how to make use of that. Jewish conversos from Spain, Capuletti call them but their humble origins lay in the city of Verona. Rinaldo Montecchi often travelled to Rome and always came back with letters of high importance. The Pope made him his private banker and all the armies marching against the Emperor were paid with Montecchi gold. Only one reason for their feud with the Capuletti. But now Rinaldo Montecchi is gone and family’s business is managed by his wife Angiola (with assistance of his brother who also died recently).

Angiola Montecchi learned to never give up. Life wasn’t pleasant to this strong and independent woman. Parents died early, she grew up at a nunnery and her relatives never cared much for her. But then at a feast, she caught Rinaldo Montecchi’s attraction. He married her for love and she had his son Romeo before he died only months later. Since that that day Angiola managed the Bank on her own. Ludovico, her brother-in-law accepted her dominance and only acted if necessary. Her son Romeo is Angiola’s great hope for the future. But he doesn’t possess his mother’ strength andpassion for wealth and power.

Romeo would rather be a poet than a banker. As a young boy, a certain Pater Lorenzo awoke his interest for classical literature and art. But Lorenzo was dismissed from Montercchi’s service when Angiola decided her son should be trained in the art of the sword. Romeo never liked but he never objected. He is deeply melancholic character who’d rather read a book than court a lady. Nevertheless, he is desired by many and his mother is considering several matches. What Romeo seeks is true love but he’s sure he’ll always end up disappointed.

Benvolio, a cousin of Romeo, is close to him like a brother. In contrast to his cousin, Benvolio is joyful and outgoing. He loves extravagant festivities where he is wooed by several ladies. He never accepted an offer for uncertain reasons. Enjoying the company of other lads, Benvolio became a talented swordsman. The feud appears like a game to him.