Page 172 - Petru Russo | The 100 Days of Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio
P. 172
Gulfardo and Guasparruolo
This novella humorously explores themes of betrayal, cunning, and In front of her husband, Gulfardo declares that he has repaid the
poetic justice, as Gulfardo outsmarts both Guasparruolo and his loan by giving the money directly to her. The wife, caught off guard,
unfaithful wife. confirms his statement, unwittingly exposing her own deceit.
Gulfardo, a clever and resourceful man, borrows money from Guasparruolo, humiliated and outmaneuvered, is left with no
Guasparruolo under the pretense of needing it for business. recourse. Gulfardo’s clever manipulation not only fulfills his desires
However, the true purpose of the loan is to fulfill an agreement but also delivers a sharp lesson to both husband and wife about
with Guasparruolo’s wife: she has promised to sleep with Gulfardo trust and betrayal.
in exchange for the money.
This tale highlights Gulfardo’s wit and the absurdity of human folly,
After their tryst, Gulfardo, ever the strategist, ensures leaving readers to marvel at the intricate dynamics of deception
Guasparruolo is present when he returns the money to his wife. and retribution.
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