Page 194 - Petru Russo | The 100 Days of Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio
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Madonna Francesca’ Suitors
This novella narrates the cunning tactics of Madonna Francesca, Rinuccio places himself in the tomb, pretending to be dead, while
a sharp and independent woman, as she outwits her suitors, Alessandro ventures into the dark, eerie setting to retrieve him.
Rinuccio and Alessandro. Themes of manipulation, wit, and self- When Alessandro uncovers the “corpse” and recognizes Rinuccio,
determination thread through the tale. terror takes hold, and the two men are thrown into confusion and
fear. They hastily flee the scene, realizing they have been made
Madonna Francesca, a beautiful and resourceful woman, finds fools.
herself pursued by two insistent suitors, Rinuccio and Alessandro.
Despite their professions of love, she feels no affection for either. Francesca’s plan works flawlessly. Neither suitor satisfies her
Annoyed by their persistence, she devises a clever plan to rid condition, and their humiliation ensures they abandon their
herself of them both. pursuits. Through her wit, Francesca reclaims her independence
and freedom from their advances.
Francesca promises each suitor her favor but on one condition:
they must complete a daunting task. To Rinuccio, she demands he This tale highlights the cleverness and agency of Madonna
play the role of a corpse in a tomb, while Alessandro must enter Francesca, as she deftly handles an uncomfortable situation to her
the tomb at night and carry the “corpse” out. The two, blinded by benefit.
their desire to win her, agree to the bizarre challenge.
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