Page 118 - Petru Russo | The 100 Days of Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio

Teodoro and Violante
This novella tells a dramatic and heartfelt tale of forbidden love,
betrayal, and unexpected redemption. Themes of social disparity,
courage, and destiny frame this narrative.
Teodoro, a trusted servant of Messer Amerigo, falls in love with
his master’s daughter, Violante. Their secret romance results in
Violante becoming pregnant. When this is discovered, Teodoro is
condemned to be hanged for his offense.
DECAMERON 118
As Teodoro is being led to the gallows, a chance encounter changes
his fate. A man in the crowd recognizes him as his long-lost son.
This man, Teodoro’s biological father, is a prominent nobleman who
intervenes to stop the execution. Through this unexpected twist of
fate, Teodoro’s noble lineage is revealed.
Teodoro is pardoned, and with his new status, he is deemed worthy
of marrying Violante. The story concludes with their union, marking
the triumph of love over class divisions and adversity.
119