Approaches to Teaching Boccaccio’s Decameron

The essays in this collection describe ways to introduce the Decameron to undergraduate students. The first part surveys editions and translations, suggests readings, and recommends background studies and audiovisual and electronic resources for instructors. The second part contains 18 essays on teaching the Decameron in a variety of settings. While some offer ideas for studying Boccaccio’s work in religious or historical contexts, others discuss its critical reception and literary precedents. Still others investigate the roles women play in the tales, the sexual content of the novelle, and the influence of the work on European literature. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)