History of The Decameron in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 26, 2024

The Decameron, a masterpiece of early Italian prose by Giovanni Boccaccio, is a frame story composed of 100 tales narrated by seven women and three men seeking refuge from the Black Death in a villa outside Florence. Written between 1348 and 1353, the stories offer a diverse tapestry of love, wit, and life lessons, reflecting the social and cultural landscape of 14th-century Italy. From erotic to tragic, the tales provide a valuable historical document and showcase Boccaccio's mastery of the Florentine vernacular.

1962: Discovery of Codex Hamilton 90

A pivotal discovery in 1962 by Italian philologist Vittore Branca revealed Codex Hamilton 90, housed in Berlin's Staatsbibliothek, as an autograph from Boccaccio's later years, potentially holding significant insights into the author's thoughts and revisions.

1971: Publication of McWilliam's Translation

In 1971, a significant milestone in the English translation of 'The Decameron' was achieved with the publication of G. H. McWilliam's comprehensive translation.

1985: Creation of Etchings by Petru Russu

In 1985, Romanian/Swedish artist Petru Russu embarked on a creative endeavor, producing a series of 100 etchings inspired by Giovanni Boccaccio's 'Il Decameron.'

1985: Exhibition of Petru Russu's Etchings

Petru Russu's evocative etchings, created using aquatint and aquaforte techniques, were unveiled in 1985. These hand-colored prints, measuring 21x29 cm, offered a visual interpretation of 'The Decameron,' capturing its diverse themes and stylistic nuances.