Reading Notes: Heptameron Reading A

  •  The Boatwoman and the Monks 
    • I like the plot of this story. It begins with the monks telling a story (a story within a story, how interesting). The story starts out with the woman being a protagonist and the men being antagonists. I like that she sounds like a strong capable woman, above the influence and efforts of the men. The clever girl tricks them at the end. I like that there is a lesson pulled from the content of the story
  • The Lady from Milan and Her Lover 
    • This story starts out in a similar manner. It starts telling a story within a story. 
    • I like the introduction of the gentleman that seems worthy of the lady. I like the contrast of their meeting. He goes out of his way to court her amongst her older companions, despite there being other young and sprightly women. 
    • It is a little odd that he watched her as he did, using other people to keep an eye on her just so that he could go where she goes. Could be construed as stalkerish, but it does seem he does so innocently and with a genuine interest in her. She does notice his desire but does not seem to return it
    • The gentlemen lay all his cards on the table at the smaller chapel. 
    • I like the complexities of the two main characters. She for whatever reason does not admire him, but instead, she takes pity on him after many efforts. 
      • Also, he cannot seem to get over her. After she denies him many times yet he tries again and again over years 
    • I'm not sure how liking him would expose her honor and reputation
    • Little confused at the point of this story so far. It just seems like he is chasing her and she is denying him 
  • The Lady from Milan and Her Lover cont. 
    • Ahh, this story starts off well. It starts with a test of the man's bravery and defense of her. I like how it explains that she has been falling in love with him for a while, but she held herself back to test him and make sure he is as good as his reputation claims. She wanted to make sure he is brave and good to her. 
    • I really like the final message here. That men will strive to win the heart of a woman, but women need to know their worth, and not settle for men who do not deserve them. 



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