Page 78 - Petru Russo | The 100 Days of Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio

Gillette of Narbonne and Bertrand of Roussillon
This novella tells the extraordinary tale of Gillette, a woman of
intelligence, virtue, and unwavering determination, who overcomes
societal obstacles and unrequited love to claim her place alongside
Bertrand of Roussillon. Themes of love, resilience, and identity
underscore this story.
Gillette, the daughter of a respected physician in Narbonne,
secretly loves Bertrand, a nobleman of higher social standing.
When Bertrand’s father passes away, Bertrand leaves for court,
disinterested in the devoted Gillette. Fate intervenes when the King
of France falls gravely ill with a fistula that no physician can cure.
Drawing on her father’s teachings, Gillette heals the King, and as
her reward, she asks to marry Bertrand. Though reluctant, Bertrand
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complies with the King’s command and weds her, only to abandon
her immediately after, fleeing to Florence to escape a marriage he
does not want.
Undeterred, Gillette disguises herself and follows Bertrand to
Florence, where she learns of his courtship of another woman.
Using her wit, Gillette arranges to take the woman’s place in
secret, spending the night with Bertrand. As proof, she fulfills his
impossible conditions: bearing his ring and carrying his child.
Gillette returns home, her mission accomplished. When Bertrand
learns of her actions and the birth of their twin sons, he is
overcome with remorse and admiration. He publicly acknowledges
her as his wife, and their union grows into a true partnership
founded on mutual respect and love.
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