Page 68 - Petru Russo | The 100 Days of Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio

Dom Felice and Friar Puccio
This novella from The Decameron humorously explores the
dynamics of deception, human gullibility, and the lengths one
will go to achieve personal desires. Themes of cunning and ironic
justice are central.
Fra Puccio, a devout yet simple friar, devotes himself to the
pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Seeking guidance, he turns to
Dom Felice, a clever and opportunistic clergyman, for advice on
achieving blessedness. Recognizing Fra Puccio’s naivety, Dom
Felice sees an opportunity to pursue his own desires, Fra Puccio’s
beautiful and neglected wife.
Feigning spiritual intent, Dom Felice devises an arduous nightly
penance for Fra Puccio, claiming it will bring him closer to
blessedness. Fra Puccio, eager to fulfill his religious duties,
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diligently follows Dom Felice’s instructions, spending his nights in
prayer and self-mortification.
Meanwhile, Dom Felice takes advantage of Fra Puccio’s nightly
absences to visit and seduce his wife. The wife, feeling neglected
and yearning for affection, willingly consents to the arrangement,
finding solace and companionship in Dom Felice’s attentions.
Night after night, Fra Puccio endures his penance, unaware of Dom
Felice’s betrayal. The situation unfolds with ironic humor, as the
friar believes he is ascending to spiritual heights while Dom Felice
indulges in earthly pleasures.
In the end, Dom Felice departs the town unscathed, leaving Fra Puccio
none the wiser. The story concludes with a satirical reflection on
human gullibility and the misuse of authority for personal gain.
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