The Heptameron of Margaret, Queen of Navarre

This collection gathers more than seventy short stories, arranged as a week‑long series of tellings that echo the structure of the classic Decameron. Set in the vibrant world of 16th‑century France, each narrative turns a keen eye toward love, ambition, and the moral choices that shape lives. The voice of a learned Renaissance queen guides listeners through the varied fortunes of her characters.

The episodes range widely: a proctor’s tragic jealousy, a muleteer’s wife choosing death over dishonor, a queen’s calculated revenge, a boatwoman’s clever escape from predatory friars, and many other vivid encounters. Each tale balances wit and pathos, offering glimpses of both courtly intrigue and rustic resilience. The stories reveal how ordinary people navigate desire, loyalty, and the often‑unexpected consequences of their actions.

Rendered from the most authentic surviving manuscript, this translation retains every nuance of the original language and is enriched with scholarly notes that illuminate historical references and narrative techniques. Beautiful period illustrations accompany the text, adding visual texture to the listening experience and inviting a deeper appreciation of this timeless literary treasure.