giovanni boccaccio tales from the decameron

These are tales that have inspired many writers as well as readers since the fourteenth century with good reason. Even in translation the humorous style shines through and it seems all great fun, as long as you don't think of the Black Death that hovers in the background and provides the raison d'etre (pardon the French, I don't know the Italian equivalent) for the tale-telling.As I completed the days through to the tenth I was impressed with the fecundity of the tales, the breadth of the characters covering multiple vocations and classes, and the author's stylish ability to reach the reader - even in translation. Selected stories from the first three days have introduced me to a polyglot of defrocked Friars, larcenous ladies, and virgins whose virginity remains in the imagination alone, although they can fool the King when necessary (the Kings and Priests and Aristocrats seem most likely candidates for the title 'fool'). I am in the midst of a reading of The Decameron using the translation by Mark Musa and Peter Bondanella. The Decameron of Giovanni Boccaccio was published in 1353 and demonstrates that the popularity of gross humor did not begin with the puerile teen comedies of our own era, but can be traced back to the middle ages and before (cf.

With an eye-catching new cover, and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of The Decameron is both modern and readable. With surprising twists and turns, the book is an engaging text that will keep readers guessing. It starts quaint but builds into a massive narrative that spans genres and themes. The Decameron is a timely interpretation of isolation in the midst of a global pandemic. It’s a vibrant display of the author’s skill as he produces 100 captivating tales over the course of 10 days. The storytelling consists of romance and humor as well as death and deception. It must fit a specific theme, keeping the concept fresh and inspired. Every day, as a form of entertainment, each person tells a story to the group. Seven young women and three men have isolated themselves in a villa hoping to avoid the looming disease that’s consumed their nation. Giovanni Boccaccio’s imaginative writing style elevates the multilayered novellas ranging from romance to satire. While the plague ravishes major cities, a group of Italian men and women seek shelter at a countryside estate telling stories to pass the time.

Giovanni boccaccio tales from the decameron