Description

Decameron is a classic medieval collection of 100 novellas by Giovanni Boccaccio, written in the 14th century. This First Edition paperback from One World Classics (2008) is a landmark work of literature, famous for its witty, often erotic, and insightful stories. It is a foundational text in Italian and World Literature.

Synopsis

Title: Decameron
Author/Publisher: Giovanni Boccaccio / Alma Classics
Publication Year: 2008
Format: 1072-page Illustrated First Edition Trade Paperback

Giovanni Boccaccio's <em>Decameron</em> stands as a monumental work of 14th-century Italian literature, a foundational text that profoundly influenced subsequent European storytelling. Composed between 1349 and 1353, it presents a collection of one hundred novellas told over ten days by a group of seven young women and three young men.

Fleeing the devastating Black Death plague in Florence, these ten narrators shelter in a secluded villa in the countryside, where they amuse themselves by telling tales. The stories themselves span a vast array of human experience, from the erotic and scandalous to the tragic, the witty, and the deeply insightful, exploring themes of love, fortune, human cunning, and moral dilemmas.

This 2008 Alma Classics edition, part of the distinguished Oneworld Classics series, offers Boccaccio's epic narrative to a new generation. Classified as both 'Fiction' and 'Literary Criticism', this substantial volume provides readers with an authoritative presentation of the text, likely complemented by scholarly context.

• A Tapestry of Tales: At its heart are 100 diverse novellas, each a miniature masterpiece reflecting the mores, follies, and triumphs of medieval society. From clever pranks to poignant tragedies, they capture the full spectrum of human nature.
• The Black Death's Shadow: The overarching narrative framework sees the storytellers attempting to escape the horrors of the plague, creating a vivid historical backdrop that lends both urgency and poignancy to their imaginative diversions.
• Wit, Satire, and Morality: Boccaccio's sharp intellect shines through, employing humour, satire, and profound psychological insight to comment on religious hypocrisy, class distinctions, and the timeless complexities of love and desire.
• Scholarly Context: Published as a work encompassing both 'Fiction' and 'Literary Criticism', this edition likely includes invaluable introductory essays, annotations, or critical apparatus designed to enhance understanding and appreciation of Boccaccio's enduring masterpiece.

As a cornerstone of Western literature, <em>The Decameron</em> continues to captivate with its timeless stories and historical significance. This Alma Classics First Edition trade paperback provides a comprehensive and accessible entry point into Boccaccio's world, making it an excellent acquisition for both classic literature enthusiasts and those seeking a substantial work of historical fiction and scholarship.

Condition

This item has been professionally inspected and is in Like new condition. Please refer to the photographs for detailed visual assessment.

Specifications