Answer:
In reading this passage, the tone of the language—the attitude—shifts several times. It begins with the phrase “Sweet and gentle women,” which is an attempt on Dioneo’s part to flatter the previous storytellers. He then states “That which I counsel none to copy,” a phrase that implies caring and condescension. In using this phrase, Dioneo assumes that these women need his advice. Lastly, it shifts to regret with the phrase “for that great pity.” Unlike many classic fairy tales and cartoon movies, Dioneo’s language reveals that he has clear motivations and ambitions. He explains that he will tell a story designed to caution his audience against certain behavior. He also provides a more personal reason for why he chooses to tell this particular story. Dioneo states: “that I stray not too far from you.” The “you” refers to his audience, the members of the brigata. In hearing all this, several questions arise. Such as; why is Dioneo so worried about putting a distance between himself and these people? Is he insecure about his standing in this group? Is he worried about gaining their approval? These questions, which Boccaccio builds into the narrative, serve 2 purposes. They show us that the stories told by the members of The Decameron are not the only stories within this text. To get a full picture of the plot, we have to also consider the interactions that the members of the brigata have with the narrator. Finally, they show us that the narrator is a fully realized character with motivations, desires, and insecurities. In order to fully grasp the meaning of the text, we must question how these very human qualities affect his telling of the story. Thus, he employs his voice on the tension between masculinity and femininity. He excites the members of the brigata and recognizes women for their unique skills and independent ideas. He then concludes the Decameron with a story similar to the society from which these young aristocrats escaped, which reveals misogynistic overtones. Dioneo Boccaccio is able to explore the gender disparity which is inherent in 14th century Florentine society.
Explanation:
