Page 154 - A Homage to Giovanni Boccaccio by Petru Rusu
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Friar Rinaldo and Madonna Agnesa


                                                                                  This novella humorously recounts the tale of Friar Rinaldo, a
                                                                                   cunning friar, and Madonna Agnesa, a quick-witted woman, as they
                                                                                   navigate a precarious situation. Themes of deception, wit, and
                                                                                   improvisation shape the story.


                                                                                   Friar Rinaldo, enamored with Madonna Agnesa, his gossip
                                                                                   (godchild’s godmother), seizes an opportunity to be alone with
                                                                                   her. However, their secret meeting is interrupted when Agnesa’s

                                                                                   husband unexpectedly returns home. Caught off guard, the friar
                                                                                   and Agnesa must think quickly to avoid suspicion.

                                                                                   With remarkable composure, they concoct a clever ruse. They

                                                                                   convince the husband that Friar Rinaldo is performing a charm to
                                                                                   cure their godson of worms. The friar, feigning solemnity, recites
                                                                                   prayers and performs gestures to sell the act. The husband, none
                                                                                   the wiser, accepts their explanation and leaves them undisturbed.


                                                                                  This witty tale concludes with Friar Rinaldo escaping unscathed,
                                                                                   thanks to Agnesa’s quick thinking and their shared ability to
                                                                                   improvise under pressure.





















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