Literature Library author

Giovanni Boccaccio

A concise guide to Giovanni Boccaccio's body of work, major titles, and recurring themes.

Languages
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Regions / countries
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Forms
Framed novella, Story collection
Indexed works
2

Author overview

Giovanni Boccaccio (1313–1375) was a poet and short story writer whose body of work spans framed novella and story collection. This writing is associated with Republic of Florence. Major works and useful reading starting points include Corbaccio, Genealogia deorum gentilium, Elegia di Madonna Fiammetta, and Amorosa visione. Key themes include Generosity needs judgment, Fortune, timing, and incomplete knowledge, and Gender, property, and the power to choose.

Reading pathway

Begin with Federigo's Falcon, then move to The Decameron.

Representative starting points

Federigo’s Falcon

A ruined courtly lover serves his treasured falcon to an unexpected guest, only to learn she came seeking that very bird for her sick child.

All published guides by this author

Biography, authority, and bibliography sources

This independent author guide supports reading and discussion. Curriculum badges show useful AP or IB connections without making this an official AP or IB publication.