The Theme of Love in the Decameron - Essay Example

The search for love is, as Boccaccio expresses in the Fourth Day, a vital element of human life. Per se, it is never wrong, humiliating, or immoral to love because it is one of the most important elements of life’s natural order; seeking love is a natural instinct, wherein it is somewhat correct and appropriate to take a passionate and uninhibited pleasure.          

Such is Boccaccio’s personal belief expressed in the book’s Conclusion, in response to the allegation of decadence or immorality. Love stories are never immoral; love is a natural instinct, and is totally healthy; if these stories upset the mind, then that mind is ill. Boccaccio likens it to wine, which is perfect for the hale and hearty person, and damaging only to the sick; and to weapons and firearms, which are useful tools when correctly used, and immoral or destructive if misused. Therefore, the search for love in the Decameron is at liberty, free from fake humility, hypocrisy, prejudice, doubts of conscience, and guilt. Love is an honest, straightforward, and unrestrained emotion that manifests itself completely and liberally, a desirable, appealing emotion to which no one is invulnerable, and which thus recognizes not any of the false prohibitions and constraints which modern society tries to inflict on it. Boccaccio argues that it is correct and unavoidable that the search for love will transgress and ignore social norms every time they force to contradict the genuine expression of love.