During Galeazzo Visconti's visit to Florence, Shelley gives an overview of the city, including the Cathedral (248). But she also notes that it was just beginning construction during the time of the novel's setting, and that it wouldn't be until its completion that it would become an icon of the city. Construction began on the cathedral in 1296 and finished in 1436 with Brunelleschi's construction of its dome. Shortly after this, they visit a tomb and Euthanasia has an almost gothic moment alone in the dark--albeit without the terror that characterizes that genre. 

In the mid-1800s, Southampton experienced great expansion; in fact, this time arguably marks the beginning of the development of modern Southampton. Railways and ship docks began to flourish in the area, bringing wealth and travelers to the area. The Southampton Dock Company was founded in 1836 and railways from London arrived around the same time. The shipping and transportation industry contributed to the expansion of Southampton.