2. Story 7.5 – The prologue to this story paints the husband in a bad light. He is given the persona of a over controlling, conniving husband. It sheds light the viewpoint in such a way that women were to be controlled and kept safe like a diamond from burglars. I believe society has progressed a little, but not much from this point. Several guys get into physical fights over a girl, just as Rimini is always on guard for the incoming advances from other men towards his wife. This prologue also conveniently leaves out the woman’s perspective. I think today’s society observes the woman’s point of view much more than the olden days, perhaps even much more than men. Today women are the victims, and men are the abusers. Regardless of what happens, it is always the poor girl over the man, who may be victim to the woman’s evil plans much like Rimini was at the end of this story. Overall, society has changed its view since the prologue of this story, but I can not decide whether it is a step in the right direction, or the wrong one.
1. Story 7.3 – I found this story to be quite strange. Rinaldo wants to get with a woman, whoms son he is godfather of, and befriends her husband to try a make his pass. I find it extremely ironic that this event eventually happens, but Rinaldo has first turned into a friar. It is like Boccaccio is trying to show his view of the church. It took a deprivation of human society and a title of much honor for the two to finally consummate their wants. The woman was fairly easily persuaded, and the most disturbing fact was that the godson was present for this moment. I think this parallels to the church, and how the friar is meant to be a guiding light for young boys. However, reality is much different than one’s ideals as the book demonstrates. For instance, the young boy is present because it sets the stage for the friars influence and example. Overall this story demonstrates Boccaccio’s idea of the church and its clergy.
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