Page 38 - SUMMARIES OF GIOVANNI BOCCACCIO’S DECAMEON : A Visionary Journey In 100 Stories And 100 Etchings By Petru Russu
P. 38
Master Alberto’s Lesson in Love
The final novella of the first day of The Decameron tells the tale of
Master Alberto da Bologna, an elderly and well-respected physician, who
teaches a valuable lesson about the nature of love and dignity. The story
masterfully critiques arrogance while celebrating intelligence and grace.
Master Alberto, though advanced in years, is smitten by the beauty and
charm of a noblewoman from Bologna. Despite his age, he falls deeply in
love with her, his affection sincere yet unrequited. Unbeknownst to him,
the lady decides to mock his feelings publicly, intending to humiliate him
before her peers.
At a lavish gathering, the noblewoman seizes the opportunity to address
Master Alberto’s infatuation. With a mocking tone, she questions how a
man of his age could entertain romantic feelings for someone so young,
expecting him to be embarrassed by her remarks. The gathering falls
silent, awaiting Master Alberto’s response.
Rather than succumbing to shame, Master Alberto responds with dignity
and wit. He admits his admiration for her beauty but explains that love is
a force beyond reason, one that inspires all, regardless of age. He goes on
to remark that her beauty, while captivating, draws admiration not only
BATHED IN WARM JEWEL from him but from countless others. His words transform the moment,
TONES AND LAYERED WITH shifting the laughter to admiration.
MOSAIC FRAGMENTATION, THE
IMAGE ELEVATES EMOTIONAL
The noblewoman, struck by the wisdom and grace of his reply, feels
VULNERABILITY INTO POETIC
GEOMETRY, BLENDING humbled and ashamed of her own behavior. Through his composure and
CLASSICAL SERENITY WITH eloquence, Master Alberto turns the situation in his favor, earning the
MODERN ABSTRACTION TO
respect of the attendees and teaching the lady a lesson about humility
HONOR THE TIMELESS GRACE OF
DIGNIFIED LOVE. and the power of love to transcend superficial boundaries.
DECAMERON 36 37
