A Look at Ambition in Carlo Goldoni's play, La famiglia dell'antiquario

This thesis looks at and examines ambition in the play La famiglia dell’antiquario by 18th century Venetian playwright Carlo Goldoni. I categorize ambition found in the play into two types: material and immaterial. By examining ambition in all its facets, this work highlights the different strains of ambition Goldoni showcases in this particular work. The overall analysis of ambition suggests that Goldoni believed there to be right and wrong ways to have ambition. Overall, through this technique one is able to glean a remarkable critique and depiction of life in 18th century Venice through a Goldonian lens.