The Decameron · Character
Federigo degli Alberighi
A Florentine nobleman who spends his entire fortune courting a woman who ignores him, then retreats to a farm with nothing left but a prized falcon.
major
Also known as Federigo, Federigo di Neri Pegolotti
First appearance: The First Story
As a major figure in The Decameron, Federigo degli Alberighi is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.
A once-wealthy Florentine gentleman who has spent his fortune in unrequited love for Madam Giovanna, now living in poverty with only a falcon.
Federigo once outshone every bachelor in Tuscany in arms and courtesy, but his lavish pursuit of Madam Giovanna drained his wealth until only a small farm and a remarkable falcon remained. He bears his poverty without complaint, hawking alone at Campi, still in love and too proud to beg. When Giovanna's young son falls ill and longs for the falcon, Federigo faces a choice between his last treasure and his last chance at honor, and the story turns on what a gentleman does when he has nothing left to give.
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Character Web
11 connectionsA slice of how Federigo degli Alberighi sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Other
Character groups
- Moral and Romantic Adventures
- Protagonist
- Fidelity and Betrayal
- Historical and Legendary Figures
- Love and Deception
+6 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
In this story, the emotional and psychological peak occurs when Lisa, a lowborn apothecary’s daughter, is cons…
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Federigo degli Alberighi appears across 2 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
Chapter companion notes
Spoil-light check-ins for Federigo degli Alberighi unlock in the free preview.
See Federigo degli Alberighi in The First Story