Page 37 - THE DECAMERON: A Visionary Journey in 100 Stories and 100 Etchings by Petru Russu
P. 37
Filomena
Filomena plays a significant role in setting the tone for the
storytelling in "The Decameron." As the Novelteller, she establishes
the rules that govern the storytelling sessions. She designates
Pampinea as the ruler of the first day and decides that the ruler of
each day will choose the theme of the stories. Additionally, Filomena
grants Dioneo the privilege to narrate last and to deviate from the
day's theme, adding a unique touch to the storytelling sessions.
Filomena's stories often carry a moral lesson, with one of the
most memorable discussions focusing on the insincere practices
of religious figures. She also emphasizes the importance of women
speaking concisely and with wit. On the second day, Filomena
dictates the theme, which revolves around bad situations that
ultimately have happy endings.
2 The Second Day
in which the storytellers tell
stories about those who
attain a state of unexpected
happiness after a period of
misfortune.
33
The Decameron
