Page 146 - A Homage to Giovanni Boccaccio by Petru Rusu
P. 146
Brother Cipolla
This novella hilariously critiques gullibility and religious hypocrisy
through the antics of Fra Cipolla, a witty and resourceful friar.
Themes of wit, deception, and storytelling frame this satirical tale.
Fra Cipolla, a charismatic preacher, visits a village to show a
sacred relic: a feather of the Angel Gabriel. Drawn by his charm
and promise, the country folk gather in anticipation. However, two
mischievous friends decide to play a prank on the friar by stealing
the feather and replacing it with coals.
When Fra Cipolla opens the reliquary to present the feather, he
discovers the coals instead. Unfazed, he quickly claims they are
the coals upon which St. Lawrence was roasted, spinning the tale
with such fervor that the audience is captivated and none suspect
the switch.
This witty story underscores Fra Cipolla’s adaptability and
highlights the villagers’ credulity, offering a humorous commentary
on the manipulation of faith and the power of charismatic
storytelling.
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