Page 74 - Petru Russo | The 100 Days of Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio

Tedaldo degli Elisei
This novella follows the dramatic and clever journey of Tedaldo
degli Elisei, a young nobleman whose exile leads to revelation,
redemption, and secret romance. Themes of forgiveness, loyalty,
and the complexities of love are woven into this tale.
Tedaldo, deeply enamored with Monna Ermellina, finds himself
cast out of favor after a misunderstanding drives a wedge between
them. Heartbroken, he departs Florence and takes refuge in nearby
lands, adopting the guise of a pilgrim. In this new role, Tedaldo
builds a life yet longs for reconciliation with his beloved.
Meanwhile, tragedy strikes in Florence when Monna Ermellina’s
husband, jealous and mistaken, believes he has killed Tedaldo in a
rage. The man is arrested for the crime, and though Tedaldo is very
much alive, the husband’s life hangs in the balance.
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Years later, Tedaldo returns to Florence under the guise of his
pilgrim identity. He secretly meets Monna Ermellina, who is riddled
with guilt and sorrow over the supposed death of her lover. With
wit and compassion, Tedaldo reveals himself and convinces her of
her innocence, restoring her peace of mind.
Tedaldo then sets about proving the innocence of Monna
Ermellina’s husband. Discreetly gathering evidence and persuading
those involved, he exonerates the man and brings resolution to
their fractured household. In doing so, Tedaldo earns the trust and
gratitude of his beloved’s family.
Though their love remains unspoken publicly, Tedaldo and Monna
Ermellina quietly rekindle their romance. With her husband unaware
of their secret bond, the two enjoy each other’s affections discreetly
while honoring the delicate balance of their societal roles.
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