Giovanni Boccaccio's 'The Decameron: Collector's Edition' is a timeless masterpiece that consists of 100 bawdy, witty, and thought-provoking stories told by ten young Florentines who have fled the city to escape the Black Death. This literary work is written in a frame narrative style, showcasing Boccaccio's innovative storytelling techniques and his keen understanding of human nature. These tales cover a wide range of topics such as love, betrayal, humor, and morality, making them relevant to readers of all ages. The book serves as a vivid portrayal of 14th century Italy, offering valuable insights into the social and cultural norms of the time. The three different translations by John Payne, John Florio, and J.M. Rigg presented in this collector's edition provide readers with diverse interpretations and perspectives on Boccaccio's classic work. Each translation captures the essence of the original text while adding unique nuances that enhance the reading experience. Giovanni Boccaccio's 'The Decameron' is a must-read for lovers of classic literature, history, and storytelling, as it continues to captivate audiences with its timeless tales and universal themes.

The Poetical Works of John Skelton (Vol. 1&2) presents a comprehensive collection of the renowned poet's literary creations in a two-volume set. Skelton's writing style is often described as bold, satirical, and political, reflecting the turbulent times of the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Known for his use of alliteration and complex metrical schemes, Skelton's work stands out for its innovative forms and critical commentary on society and religion. This collection provides readers with a deep insight into the poet's unique voice and cultural relevance during the Tudor period. John Skelton's literary contributions shed light on the intricacies of the English Renaissance and the development of poetic expression during this transformative era. His keen observations on politics, morality, and human nature continue to resonate with modern readers, making this collection a valuable addition to any literature lover's library. The Poetical Works of John Skelton is a must-read for those interested in exploring the complexities of Renaissance poetry and the enduring themes of English literature.

King Alfred's Old English Version of St. Augustine's Soliloquies is a profound and enlightening text that delves into the depths of spiritual introspection and philosophical inquiry. The book presents a translation of Saint Augustine's original work, providing readers with a unique perspective on the search for self-knowledge and understanding of the divine. Written in Old English, the language of the Anglo-Saxons, this version offers a glimpse into the early medieval period and the intellectual pursuits of the time. The rich imagery and intricate language of the text make it a captivating read for those interested in medieval literature and Christian philosophy. St. Augustine, known for his influential theological writings and philosophical insights, has inspired countless scholars and thinkers throughout history. His profound understanding of the human condition and the quest for meaning is evident in his Soliloquies, and this Old English version further showcases his enduring legacy. As Bishop of Hippo, Augustine's devotion to God and commitment to intellectual inquiry shine through in this work, challenging readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values. I highly recommend King Alfred's Old English Version of St. Augustine's Soliloquies to readers interested in delving into the complexities of Christian philosophy and medieval literature. This text offers a unique opportunity to engage with the thoughts of one of the most influential figures in the history of Christianity, providing valuable insights and reflections on the nature of faith and self-discovery.

In 'The Old Castle and Other Stories' by Anonymous, readers are transported to a world of mystery and intrigue through a collection of haunting and atmospheric tales. The book showcases the author's ability to create vivid settings and complex characters, drawing readers in with its rich language and atmospheric descriptions. As a work of Gothic fiction, the stories are filled with dark themes of betrayal, revenge, and the supernatural, making for a captivating and immersive reading experience. Anonymous utilizes elements of foreshadowing and symbolism to create a sense of unease, keeping readers on edge until the chilling conclusion of each story. The literary style of the book is reminiscent of classic Gothic literature, with a modern twist that will appeal to fans of the genre. Anonymous' decision to write 'The Old Castle and Other Stories' may have been influenced by a fascination with the supernatural or a desire to explore themes of morality and human nature. The author's anonymity adds an air of mystery to the collection, inviting readers to speculate about the motivations behind the stories. Readers who enjoy atmospheric and suspenseful fiction will find this book to be a captivating read that will linger in their minds long after they have finished the last page.

Tales from the Gesta Romanorum is a collection of moral fables and allegorical stories compiled by various authors in the 13th century. The book is a reflection of the medieval literary style of storytelling with a didactic purpose, offering moral lessons through entertaining narratives. Each tale is rich in symbolism and often features mythical creatures and supernatural elements, making it a captivating read for those interested in medieval literature and moral philosophy. The Gesta Romanorum provides a glimpse into the values and beliefs of the medieval world, making it a valuable resource for understanding the cultural and intellectual history of the time. The book's enduring popularity highlights its timeless appeal and relevance in exploring universal themes of human nature and ethics. Fans of classic literature and folklore will find this collection to be a treasure trove of wisdom and entertainment, offering insights into the moral complexities of the medieval era.

The Marvellous Adventures and Rare Conceits of Master Tyll Owlglass, attributed to the mysterious Anonymous, is a delightful and whimsical collection of short stories. This 16th-century German work is considered one of the earliest examples of picaresque literature, filled with satire, humor, and social commentary. Written in a playful and light-hearted style, the book follows the mischievous and cunning protagonist Tyll Owlglass as he navigates through various absurd and entertaining misadventures, often exposing the follies of those around him. The narrative cleverly combines elements of fantasy and realism, making it a captivating read for audiences of all ages. The book's intricate plot and witty dialogue showcase the author's skill in crafting compelling stories that entertain and provoke thought. Through the character of Tyll Owlglass, Anonymous offers a unique perspective on human nature and society, inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of life in a playful and engaging manner. Fans of classic literature and satire will thoroughly enjoy the wit and charm of The Marvellous Adventures and Rare Conceits of Master Tyll Owlglass, making it a must-read for those seeking a whimsical escape.

This carefully crafted ebook: "The Decameron: 3 Different Translations by John Florio, John Payne and J.M. Rigg in 1 eBook" is formatted for your eReader with a functional and detailed table of contents. The Decameron (c.1351) is an entertaining series of one hundred stories written in the wake of the Black Death. The stories are told in a country villa outside the city of Florence by ten young noble men and women who are seeking to escape the ravages of the plague. Boccaccio's skill as a dramatist is masterfully displayed in these vivid portraits of people from all stations in life, with plots that revel in a bewildering variety of human reactions. Giovanni Boccaccio (1313-1375) was an Italian writer and humanist, one of the founders of the Renaissance. He studied business but abandoned it eventually to pursue his literary interests. In 1350 Boccaccio met Francesco Petrarca (Petrarch) (1304-1374), one the most important figures in the beginnings of the Renaissance and Humanism.

In the time of a devastating pandemic, seven women and three men withdraw to a country estate outside Florence to give themselves a diversion from the death around them. Once there, they decide to spend some time each day telling stories, each of the ten to tell one story each day. They do this for ten days, with a few other days of rest in between, resulting in the 100 stories of the Decameron. The Decameron was written after the Black Plague spread through Italy in 1348. Most of the tales did not originate with Boccaccio; some of them were centuries old already in his time, but Boccaccio imbued them all with his distinctive style. The stories run the gamut from tragedy to comedy, from lewd to inspiring, and sometimes all of those at once. They also provide a detailed picture of daily life in fourteenth-century Italy.

The poet and scholar Giovanni Boccaccio was a leading writer of the Italian Renaissance, now best remembered as the author of the famous compendium of tales ‘The Decameron’. Boccaccio helped lay the foundations for the humanism of the Renaissance, while raising vernacular literature to the status of the classics of antiquity. Noted for their realistic dialogue and imaginative use of character and plot, Boccaccio’s works went on to inspire Chaucer, Spenser, Shakespeare and countless other writers in the ensuing centuries. This comprehensive eBook presents Boccaccio’s collected works, with numerous illustrations, rare translations appearing in digital print for the first time, informative introductions and the usual Delphi bonus material. (Version 1) * Beautifully illustrated with images relating to Boccaccio’s life and works * Concise introductions to the novels and other texts * Multiple translations of ‘The Decameron’, including the first English translation by John Florio, 1620 * John Payne's complete translation, with all the hyperlinked footnotes - ideal for students * The original Italian text of ‘The Decameron’ * Rare translations of two novels, with individual contents tables * Images of how the books were first published, giving your eReader a taste of the original texts * Excellent formatting of the texts * The rare long poem ‘Il Filostrato’, available in no other collection * The key works of Chaucer and Shakespeare that were inspired by Boccaccio * Includes a translation of Boccaccio’s ‘De Mulieribus Claris’, first time in digital print * Features two biographies - discover Boccaccio’s intriguing life * Scholarly ordering of texts into chronological order and literary genres Please visit www.delphiclassics.com to browse through our range of exciting titles CONTENTS: The Decameron The Decameron: John Florio, 1620 The Decameron: John Payne, 1886 The Decameron: J. M. Rigg, 1903 The Decameron: Original Italian Text The Novels The Filocolo (Translated by H. G., London, 1566) The Elegy of Lady Fiammetta (Translated by Bartholomew Young, 1587) The Verse ‘The Knight’s Tale’ and ‘The Two Noble Kinsmen’ (Teseida) Il Filostrato (Translated by Hubertis Cummings) The Non-Fiction De Mulieribus Claris (Partially translated by Henry Parker, Lord Morely) The Life of Dante (Translated by James Robinson Smith) The Biographies Giovanni Boccaccio: A Biographical Study by Edward Hutton Giovanni Boccaccio by Francis Hueffer Please visit www.delphiclassics.com to browse through our range of exciting titles or to purchase this eBook as a Parts Edition of individual eBooks

Reproduction of the original: Character Sketches of Romance, Fiction and the Drama by E. Cobham Brewer