Introduction: Giovanni Boccaccio’s The Decameron, written in the 14th century, is a rich tapestry of one hundred tales told by a group of young people seeking refuge from the Black Death. These stories, ranging from the humorous to the tragic, reflect the complexities of human nature and society during a time of crisis. Among the many memorable tales in this collection is “The Tale...

IntroductionGiovanni Boccaccio’s The Decameron offers a vivid tapestry of medieval life, often highlighting wit and wisdom over brute authority. One tale that exemplifies this is the story of Madonna Filippa, a woman brought to trial for adultery who uses her eloquence to escape punishment. This tale stands out not just for its humor, but for its surprising advocacy of female agency and...

Introduction:      Giovanni Boccaccio’s Decameron, tales often explore the complex relationship between love, lust, and human folly. The Ninth Day, Fifth Story, featuring Calandrino, illustrates how unchecked desire and desperation can lead to delusion and foolish behavior. Can love be accompanied by lust and delusion or is it lust and delusion pretending to be love? Our...

  Introduction: Giovanni Boccaccio’s The Decameron often walks the line between sacred and profane, but few tales do this as cleverly as the story of Alibech and Rustico. Told on the third day, this tale follows a naive young woman seeking to serve God, only to be led astray by a lustful monk. Through sharp irony and humorous exaggeration, Boccaccio critiques false piety and explores...

Introduction Giovanni Boccaccio’s The Decameron often explores the unpredictability of fortune and the resilience of the human spirit. In Day 2, Tale 6, the story of Madam Beritola follows a noblewoman whose life is overturned by political upheaval and separation from her family. Through a series of trials, she endures loss, disguise, and eventual reunion. This tale’s core theme...