Page 42 - SUMMARIES OF GIOVANNI BOCCACCIO’S DECAMEON : A Visionary Journey In 100 Stories And 100 Etchings By Petru Russu

Martellino’s Misadventure

The first novella of the second day tells the humorous and unlikely tale of
Martellino, a poor man whose misfortunes are transformed into success
through a series of fortunate accidents. It is a classic rags-to-riches story
that celebrates optimism, honesty, and the power of second chances.

Martellino, a beggar mocked for his poverty, remains hopeful and
believes in his ability to change his fate. Resolving to seek fortune,
he leaves home for Florence, where his journey takes an unexpected

turn. Along the way, he meets a group of young men who invite him to
a wedding feast. Overwhelmed by drink, Martellino falls asleep and is
left on the doorstep of a wealthy merchant’s home.

Upon waking, Martellino discovers a bag of money next to him and
assumes he has been blessed with unexpected riches. Emboldened,
he enters the merchant’s house, where he is mistaken for a wealthy
foreigner. The household lavishes him with fine food and hospitality,

even offering him the merchant’s bed.

Martellino’s joy soon turns to guilt when he realizes the money does
not belong to him but is the merchant’s property. Intending to return

it, he is stopped by the merchant’s servants, who accuse him of
BURSTING WITH RHYTHMIC theft. Facing dire consequences, Martellino shares the full truth of his
LINEWORK AND WHIMSICAL misadventure.
IMBALANCE, THE ETCHING
TRANSFORMS CHAOS INTO
CELEBRATORY ORDER, Impressed by his sincerity and humility, the merchant forgives
CHANNELING DADAIST Martellino, offering him a position in his household. Martellino accepts,
ABSURDITY AND RENAISSANCE quickly becoming a trusted and valued servant. Through hard work
THEATRICALITY TO REFLECT and a kind heart, he learns the merchant’s trade and evolves into a
MARTELLINO’S DRUNKEN
SERENDIPITY AND UPWARD ARC. successful businessman, gaining respect and financial stability.
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