Page 196 - Summaries of Boccaccio's Decameron: A Visionary Journey in 100 Stories and 100 Etchings by Petru Russu
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Madonna Francesca’ Suitors
This novella narrates the cunning tactics of Madonna Francesca, a
sharp and independent woman, as she outwits her suitors, Rinuccio
and Alessandro. Themes of manipulation, wit, and self-determination
thread through the tale.
Madonna Francesca, a beautiful and resourceful woman, finds herself
pursued by two insistent suitors, Rinuccio and Alessandro. Despite
their professions of love, she feels no affection for either. Annoyed by
their persistence, she devises a clever plan to rid herself of them both.
Francesca promises each suitor her favor but on one condition: they
must complete a daunting task. To Rinuccio, she demands he play the
role of a corpse in a tomb, while Alessandro must enter the tomb at
night and carry the “corpse” out. The two, blinded by their desire to
win her, agree to the bizarre challenge.
Rinuccio places himself in the tomb, pretending to be dead, while
Alessandro ventures into the dark, eerie setting to retrieve him. When
Alessandro uncovers the “corpse” and recognizes Rinuccio, terror
takes hold, and the two men are thrown into confusion and fear. They
hastily flee the scene, realizing they have been made fools.
Francesca’s plan works flawlessly. Neither suitor satisfies her
condition, and their humiliation ensures they abandon their pursuits.
Through her wit, Francesca reclaims her independence and freedom
ANGULAR FORMS AND DRAMATIC from their advances.
CONTRASTS EVOKE THE
CALCULATED MANIPULATION
This tale highlights the cleverness and agency of Madonna Francesca,
AND HUMOR IN FRANCESCA’S
STRATEGIC DECEPTION. as she deftly handles an uncomfortable situation to her benefit.
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