Boccaccio

Definition

Giovanni Boccaccio was an Italian writer, poet, and important humanist of the 14th century, best known for his work 'The Decameron', which consists of a collection of tales that explore themes of love, fate, and social commentary. His writings played a significant role in the revival of classical literature and the emergence of humanist thought, influencing both literature and the theatre during the Renaissance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Boccaccio's 'The Decameron' is often credited with helping to shape modern narrative form through its use of framing devices and diverse characters.
2. He was a key figure in the development of the Italian language, choosing to write in vernacular rather than Latin, making literature more accessible to a wider audience.
3. Boccaccio's works reflect a shift toward humanism, focusing on human experiences, emotions, and morality rather than solely religious themes.
4. His influence extended beyond literature to impact early Renaissance theatre, as his stories inspired numerous playwrights and theatrical adaptations.
5. Boccaccio is often considered one of the founders of modern European literary tradition due to his innovative storytelling techniques and exploration of complex characters.

Review Questions

• How did Boccaccio's choice to write in vernacular Italian instead of Latin contribute to the development of literature during the Renaissance?
  • Boccaccio's decision to write in vernacular Italian was groundbreaking as it opened up literature to a broader audience beyond the educated elite who primarily read Latin. By using everyday language, he made his stories accessible to common people, which helped popularize literature and encouraged others to write in their native languages. This shift contributed to the rise of national literatures in Europe and fostered a cultural identity that resonated with more diverse populations.
• In what ways did Boccaccio's 'The Decameron' reflect the themes and ideals associated with Humanism?
  • 'The Decameron' embodies Humanist ideals through its emphasis on human experience, emotions, and social commentary rather than solely religious or moral lessons. The tales explore various aspects of life such as love, fortune, and social class dynamics, presenting characters who navigate their desires and challenges. This focus on individual agency and the complexities of human nature aligns with Humanism's celebration of human values and intellectual exploration.
• Evaluate the impact Boccaccio had on both literature and theatre during the Renaissance period, considering his lasting influence.
  • Boccaccio significantly impacted Renaissance literature by introducing innovative narrative techniques that shaped storytelling practices for future writers. His emphasis on character development and relatable human experiences influenced many literary forms that followed. Additionally, his works provided rich source material for playwrights and inspired theatrical adaptations that further expanded dramatic storytelling. Boccaccio's contributions laid a foundation for modern narrative forms, establishing him as a key figure in both literature and theatre during the Renaissance.

Related terms

Humanism:

An intellectual movement during the Renaissance that emphasized the study of classical texts and the importance of human values and experiences.

The Decameron: A collection of 100 tales told by a group of young people sheltering from the Black Death, showcasing Boccaccio's skill in storytelling and character development.

Renaissance:

A cultural movement that began in Italy in the 14th century, marked by a revival of interest in the classical arts, literature, and learning from ancient Greece and Rome.