Page 176 - Petru Russo | The 100 Days of Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio

Calandrino and the Heliotrope
This novella narrates the absurd adventures of Calandrino, a
naïve man manipulated by his mischievous friends, Bruno and
Buffalmacco. Themes of trickery, gullibility, and human folly
permeate the tale.
Bruno and Buffalmacco, ever the pranksters, convince Calandrino
that the mythical heliotrope, a stone that grants invisibility, can
be found near the Mugnone River. Eager for fame and fortune,
Calandrino embarks on the quest with them, carrying a sack to
collect the elusive treasure.
As they wander, Calandrino joyfully picks up random stones,
believing them to be magical. Bruno and Buffalmacco feign
excitement, encouraging his delusion. Laden with heavy stones,
Calandrino returns home, eager to test the heliotrope’s power.
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At home, Calandrino declares himself invisible and begins spying
on neighbors, convinced they cannot see him. However, his wife
interrupts his fantasy, scolding him for bringing home useless
rocks. Frustrated and embarrassed, Calandrino blames her for
disrupting the “magic,” chastising her in a fit of rage.
When Calandrino recounts his escapade to Bruno and Buffalmacco,
the two can barely contain their laughter. Their prank exposes his
gullibility while reinforcing their reputation as cunning tricksters.
This humorous tale serves as a cautionary reminder about the
dangers of blind belief and the value of critical thinking.
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