Introduction In John Keats’s The Tale of the Pot of Basil, a haunting narrative unfolds about forbidden love, greed, and undying devotion. Based on a tale from Boccaccio’s Decameron, Keats reimagines the story of Isabella and Lorenzo, two lovers torn apart by Isabella’s possessive and profit-driven brothers. This poem blends Gothic elements with romantic idealism, and at its...

Introduction:  Boccaccio's "The Falcon," a novella from The Decameron, transcends the typical romantic comedy to offer a poignant exploration of selfless love and its transformative power. While ostensibly a tale of courtship, the story's central focus lies not on the acquisition of romantic love but on the profound sacrifice made by Federigo degli Alberighi. Through the heartbreaking act...

Introduction: Giovanni Boccaccio's Decameron, a collection of novellas set against the backdrop of the Black Death, offers a diverse human experiences. Day Five, Story Nine, the tale of Federigo degli Alberighi and Monna Giovanna, stands out not only for its romantic tragedy but also for its insightful commentary on social structures, gender roles, and the complex nature of love and sacrifice....

Introduction When you think of medieval literature, you might picture knights, plagues, or endless sermons. But Giovanni Boccaccio’s The Decameron flips that expectation. It’s witty, bold, and often surprisingly modern. One story that really stood out to me was the tale of Madonna Filippa from Day 6, Story 7. In this post, I’ll break down how she used her intelligence and...

INTRODUCTION The tale of a woman sleeping with her lover while her husband watches is s provocative exploration of desire, power and the boundaries of love. This story challenges traditional ideas of fedility and marriage by presenting a situation where all parties consent to an unconventional dynamic.  SUMMARY In this tale, a single woman engages in the sexual relationship with a lover...