Page 70 - SUMMARIES OF GIOVANNI BOCCACCIO’S DECAMEON : A Visionary Journey In 100 Stories And 100 Etchings By Petru Russu

Dom Felice and Friar Puccio

This novella from The Decameron humorously explores the dynamics
of deception, human gullibility, and the lengths one will go to achieve
personal desires. Themes of cunning and ironic justice are central.

Fra Puccio, a devout yet simple friar, devotes himself to the pursuit of
spiritual enlightenment. Seeking guidance, he turns to Dom Felice, a
clever and opportunistic clergyman, for advice on achieving blessedness.
Recognizing Fra Puccio’s naivety, Dom Felice sees an opportunity to

pursue his own desires, Fra Puccio’s beautiful and neglected wife.

Feigning spiritual intent, Dom Felice devises an arduous nightly

penance for Fra Puccio, claiming it will bring him closer to blessedness.
Fra Puccio, eager to fulfill his religious duties, diligently follows
Dom Felice’s instructions, spending his nights in prayer and self-
mortification.

Meanwhile, Dom Felice takes advantage of Fra Puccio’s nightly
absences to visit and seduce his wife. The wife, feeling neglected and
yearning for affection, willingly consents to the arrangement, finding

solace and companionship in Dom Felice’s attentions.

Night after night, Fra Puccio endures his penance, unaware of Dom
A MISCHIEVOUS SWIRL OF Felice’s betrayal. The situation unfolds with ironic humor, as the friar
PIOUS FIGURES AND CODED
believes he is ascending to spiritual heights while Dom Felice indulges
CARESSES, THE ARTWORK STAGES
in earthly pleasures.
A SPIRITUAL CHARADE, WHERE
SACRED DEVOTION MASKS
LUSTFUL OPPORTUNISM, AND In the end, Dom Felice departs the town unscathed, leaving Fra Puccio
ENLIGHTENMENT IS EXCHANGED
none the wiser. The story concludes with a satirical reflection on
FOR INDULGENT CHOREOGRAPHY
BENEATH MOONLIT PENANCE. human gullibility and the misuse of authority for personal gain.
DECAMERON 68 69