Page 222 - Petru Russo | The 100 Days of Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio

Messer Gentile Carisendi
This novella narrates a tale of love, compassion, and the triumph of
virtue over jealousy. Messer Gentile Carisendi’s actions reveal the
nobility of human kindness and selflessness.
Messer Gentile, a nobleman from Bologna, harbors deep affection
for Madonna Catalina, the wife of Niccoluccio Caccianimico.
Despite his love, he remains honorable, keeping his feelings
concealed. During his absence in Modena, Catalina falls gravely ill
and is mistakenly pronounced dead. Her grieving family buries her,
unaware that she still lives.
DECAMERON 222
Upon Messer Gentile’s return, he learns of Catalina’s burial and,
driven by both love and a desire to honor her, secretly exhumes her
body. To his astonishment, he finds her alive and near childbirth.
Caring for her in secret, Messer Gentile provides sanctuary until
she recovers and delivers a healthy son.
Instead of exploiting the situation, Messer Gentile chooses the path of
virtue. He restores Catalina and her newborn to her rightful husband,
Niccoluccio. In a grand public gesture, Messer Gentile reveals
his actions, earning admiration for his integrity and selflessness.
Niccoluccio, moved by his noble deeds, offers lifelong friendship, and
the tale concludes with harmony and renewed bonds.
223