Page 15 - THE DECAMERON: A Visionary Journey in 100 Stories and 100 Etchings by Petru Russu

Pampinea

Pampinea is indeed a central figure in "The Decameron." As the
eldest of all the storytellers, she naturally takes on a leadership
role and demonstrates maturity and balance throughout the tales.
It is through her suggestion in the Santa Maria Novella church that
the group of young adults decides to escape the plague-ridden
Florence and seek refuge in the countryside of Fiesole. This move
to the countryside sets the stage for the series of stories that
follow.

Pampinea opens the storytelling on the first day and, unlike other
days, does not prescribe any set theme for the tales. This allows
for a wide variety of stories to be shared, reflecting the diverse
experiences and imaginations of the group. Her leadership and
wisdom help guide the group through their time in the countryside,
making her a key figure in the narrative.
1 The First Day

in which the storytellers tell

freely chosen subjects

11
The Decameron