Giovanni Boccaccio
Giovanni Boccaccio
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Giovanni Boccaccio was born as Giovanni di Chelli Boccaccino in Florence, Italy around 1313. He is commonly known by his surname "Boccaccio", which translates to "the maker of bags" or "wallet-maker".
Birth and Death Dates
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Boccaccio's exact birthdate is unknown, but it is believed to be between 1295 and 1310. He died on December 21, 1375.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Giovanni Boccaccio was an Italian poet, writer, and humanist from the city of Florence during the Renaissance period. His work spanned various genres, including poetry, prose, and drama.
Early Life and Background
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Boccaccio was born into a merchant family in Tuscany. His early life is shrouded in mystery, but it is known that he received a good education, which included classical literature and the humanities. He was heavily influenced by the emerging humanist movement of the time.
Major Accomplishments
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Boccaccio's most notable contributions to literature include:
The Decameron: A collection of 100 novellas, written in Italian, that explores themes such as love, morality, and social class. The work is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of medieval literature.
Elegia di Madonna Fiammetta: A novel that showcases Boccaccio's writing style and ability to blend elements of romance and realism.
Notable Works or Actions
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Some of Boccaccio's notable works include:
Genealogia Deorum Gentilium: A comprehensive guide to ancient mythology, which highlights his interest in classical literature.
De Casibus Virorum Illustrium: A collection of biographies that examines the lives and fortunes of famous individuals.
Impact and Legacy
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Giovanni Boccaccio's influence on literature extends far beyond his native Italy. His works have been translated into numerous languages, making him a significant figure in world literature.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Boccaccio is remembered for his:
Innovative storytelling style: He pioneered the use of vernacular language and introduced new narrative techniques that influenced later writers.
Humanist ideals: His commitment to classical learning and the revival of ancient culture helped shape the intellectual landscape of the Renaissance.
* Timeless themes: Boccaccio's works continue to explore universal themes, such as love, morality, and social class, making them relevant to readers today.
As a writer and humanist, Giovanni Boccaccio left an indelible mark on literature and culture. His legacy continues to inspire readers and writers around the world, cementing his place among the greatest figures of the Renaissance period.
Quotes by Giovanni Boccaccio
Of women he was as fond as dogs of the stick; but in the contrary he delighted more than any filthy fellow alive.
They brought it to a common saying there that the most acceptable service one could render to God was to put the devil in Hell.
Wrongs committed in the distant past are far easier to condemn than to rectify.
Let this grisly beginning be none other to you than is to wayfarers a rugged and steep mountain.
It’s better to repent what you enjoyed than to repent not having enjoyed anything.
To have compassion for those who suffer is a human quality which everyone should possess, especially those who have required comfort themselves in the past and have managed to find it in others.
It's better to repent what you enjoyed than to repent not having enjoyed anything.
Nothing is so indecent that it cannot be said to another person if the proper words are used to convey it.
No-thing less splendid than a golden sepulchre would have suited so noble a heart.