Page 212 - Petru Russo | The 100 Days of Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio

Father Gianni: The Enchantment
This novella tells a humorous and whimsical tale of superstition
and gullibility, as Dom Gianni, a village priest, attempts an
“enchantment” for his friend Pietro, only to find his scheme foiled
by an unexpected interruption.
Dom Gianni is a well-meaning but cunning friar, known for his
quick wit and ability to charm the villagers. His close friend, Gossip
Pietro, a simple and trusting man, harbors a peculiar wish: he asks
Dom Gianni to use his magical “powers” to transform Pietro’s wife,
Gemmata, into a mare, reasoning that it will improve their family’s
fortune by providing them a fine working animal.
Eager to please and amused by the request, Dom Gianni agrees to
perform the “enchantment.” He instructs Pietro and Gemmata to
strip bare and stand side by side in their cottage while he chants a
series of mystical-sounding incantations. All the while, Dom Gianni
retains a facade of utmost seriousness, though he struggles to
contain his laughter.
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As the “spell” progresses, Dom Gianni pretends to transform
Gemmata, touching her shoulders and mimicking the movements
of attaching reins. Finally, he announces that the enchantment is
nearly complete, he only needs to attach a tail.
At this crucial moment, Pietro, utterly convinced by the act,
protests: “She’s my wife, and I’ll have none of her with a tail!” His
exclamation, born of both love and practicality, breaks the spell’s
illusion. Dom Gianni, seizing the opportunity, declares that Pietro’s
interruption has ruined the enchantment.
The couple, now sheepishly realizing the absurdity of their request,
bursts into laughter, and the episode becomes a shared joke in the
village. Dom Gianni, ever the entertainer, takes satisfaction in his
cleverness, while Pietro and Gemmata are left with a newfound
appreciation for each other, and their humanity.
This playful tale blends humor and satire, poking fun at the
superstition and credulity of the times while celebrating the bonds
of friendship and love.
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