Page 188 - Petru Russo | The 100 Days of Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio

The Deception of Master Simone

This novella narrates a comical tale of gullibility and humiliation as Led under the cover of darkness to an isolated spot, Simone

Bruno and Buffalmacco play a prank on the pompous Master Simone. prepares to undertake the mysterious rite. As part of the
Themes of mischief, wit, and comeuppance shine throughout. “ceremony,” the pranksters guide him to what he believes is a place
of honor but is, in fact, the edge of a foul, muddy ditch. At the

Master Simone, a self-important physician in Florence, fancies climax of the charade, Buffalmacco shoves Simone into the ditch,
himself a man of great intellect and influence. Seeing an opportunity leaving him to flounder in the filth.
for amusement, Bruno and Buffalmacco, notorious pranksters, plot
to humble him. Mortified and humiliated, Simone realizes he has been duped.
Bruno and Buffalmacco, meanwhile, delight in their successful

They approach Simone with a fabricated tale: a prestigious secret prank, sharing laughter at Simone’s expense. Despite his
society invites him to join its exclusive ranks. Flattered and embarrassment, the tale ends with Simone forced to confront his
intrigued, Simone eagerly accepts and follows their instructions to vanity and gullibility.

attend a midnight initiation at a secluded location.
This lighthearted story highlights the joy of mischief and the
comedic consequences of self-importance.

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