Page 236 - Summaries of Boccaccio's Decameron: A Visionary Journey in 100 Stories and 100 Etchings by Petru Russu

Griselda’s Journey of Endurance

This novella narrates the trials of Griselda, a peasant woman whose
unwavering patience and loyalty are tested to the extreme by her noble
husband, Gualtieri, the Marquis of Saluzzo. Themes of faithfulness, endurance,

and ultimate reconciliation underscore this story.

Gualtieri, pressured by his vassals to marry, chooses Griselda, a woman of
humble origins, for her beauty, virtue, and obedience. Despite the societal gap,
Griselda proves a devoted wife. Yet, Gualtieri, plagued by insecurities, devises
a series of cruel trials to test her loyalty.

First, Gualtieri demands that Griselda abandon her modest belongings and
adapt to her new status without complaint. She complies, embracing her
role as Marchioness with grace. Then, Gualtieri feigns the death of their
two children, sending them away to be raised secretly. Though heartbroken,

Griselda accepts his decisions with steadfast trust and resolve.

Finally, Gualtieri stages the ultimate test. He announces his intention to annul
their marriage, claiming he has chosen a new bride of noble lineage. He
casts Griselda out in only her shift, forcing her to return to her father’s home,
humiliated yet unbroken.

In a climactic turn, Gualtieri invites Griselda to prepare his new bride’s
wedding. She dutifully obeys, unaware that the “bride” is her own daughter.
At this moment, Gualtieri reveals the truth: the trials were a test of her loyalty
ELONGATED FIGURES AND
TEXTURED CONTRASTS DEPICT and strength. He reunites Griselda with their children, begs her forgiveness,
GRISELDA’S UNWAVERING and honors her as Marchioness.
PATIENCE. THE COMPOSITION
TRANSFORMS SUFFERING
Griselda’s dignity and compassion shine as she forgives Gualtieri, embracing
INTO TRIUMPH, EMPHASIZING
THEMES OF ENDURANCE AND him once more. Their family is restored, and the Marquis ensures her long-
RECONCILIATION. lasting respect and happiness.
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