Page 70 - Petru Russo | The 100 Days of Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio
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Ricciardo’s Horse, Zima’s Victory
This novella tells the clever and humorous tale of Zima, a During their meeting, Ricciardo professes his love for Zima in
sharp-witted woman whose intelligence and charm allow her to passionate and heartfelt terms. Bound by decorum, Zima remains
outmaneuver societal constraints and achieve her desires. Themes silent, her expression unreadable. Messer Francesco, impatient
of autonomy, communication, and wit underscore the story. and eager to conclude the event, mockingly answers on her
behalf, accepting Ricciardo’s declarations as though he were Zima.
Zima, a woman of beauty and intellect, is married to Messer
Francesco Vergellesi, a wealthy yet indifferent man consumed Ricciardo, clever and opportunistic, takes Messer Francesco’s
by his business affairs. Zima longs for connection and romance, words as binding, interpreting them as permission to pursue
qualities her husband is unable, or unwilling, to provide. Zima. With the deal thus sealed through wit and the husband’s
obliviousness, Zima and Ricciardo begin a secret relationship,
Enter Ricciardo, an admirer of Zima, who devises a plan to engage fulfilling their mutual desires in defiance of societal norms.
her. Ricciardo offers Messer Francesco a valuable palfrey in
exchange for permission to speak with Zima. Seeing the exchange This tale highlights Zima’s ability to navigate restrictive
as a simple transaction, Messer Francesco agrees, but only under circumstances with ingenuity, securing her happiness despite the
the condition that he may oversee the conversation. constraints of her marriage. Messer Francesco, oblivious to his role
in their union, serves as a humorous critique of patriarchal authority.
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