The Decameron · Chapter
Glossary explained
A glossary of archaic and obscure terms used throughout the Decameron, providing modern definitions for words such as 'Alegresse,' 'Algates,' 'Assoiled,' and 'Ywis.'
What happens
A glossary of archaic and obscure terms used throughout the Decameron, providing modern definitions for words such as 'Alegresse,' 'Algates,' 'Assoiled,' and 'Ywis.'
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Resolution.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
In this story, the emotional and psychological peak occurs when Lisa, a lowborn apothecary’s daughter, is cons…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingKey passages
“Alegresse Joy.”
Alegresse means joy.
Simple definition of a French-derived term.
“Assoiled Absolved, set free of.”
Assoiled means absolved or set free from something.
Religious or legal context of absolution.
“Nigromancer Necromancer.”
Nigromancer is an alternate spelling of necromancer, one who practices magic involving the dead.
Reflects medieval fascination with the occult.
“Stale Urinate.”
Stale is an archaic verb meaning to urinate.
Obsolete bodily function term.
“Ywis Certainly.”
Ywis means certainly or indeed.
Common Middle English adverb of affirmation.
