Page 162 - SUMMARIES OF BOCCACCIO’S DECAMERON - A Visionary Journey in 100 Stories and 100 Etchings by Petru Russu
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Love and Deception: Madonna Isabella

                                                                                   This novella recounts the ingenious and bold actions of Madonna

                                                                                   Isabella as she masterfully navigates a chaotic and compromising
                                                                                   situation. Themes of wit, deception, and romantic escapades frame
                                                                                   the story.


                                                                                   Madonna Isabella enjoys a secret rendezvous with her lover, Leonetto,
                                                                                   when Messer Lambertuccio, another admirer, arrives unannounced
                                                                                   and professes his love for her. Adding to the predicament, her
                                                                                   husband unexpectedly returns home at the same moment.


                                                                                   Thinking quickly, Madonna Isabella orchestrates a clever
                                                                                   scheme. She hides Leonetto in one room and convinces Messer

                                                                                   Lambertuccio to leave the house, brandishing his sword to ensure
                                                                                   he looks the part of a departing defender. This act dissuades her
                                                                                   husband from suspecting anything amiss.

                                                                                   Meanwhile, once her husband is pacified, she arranges for him

                                                                                   to personally escort Leonetto home, under the guise of aiding a
                                                                                   nobleman in need. The husband, oblivious to the true relationship
                                                                                   between Isabella and Leonetto, complies without question.


                                                                                   The tale concludes with Madonna Isabella emerging unscathed,
                                                                                   her cunning and resourcefulness preserving her secrets and her
                                                                                   composure.












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