Il Novellino: The hundred old tales

A wandering minstrel of the late‑thirteenth century gathered the stories that had long lived on the lips of courtiers, knights, and humble villagers across Italy. He wove together ancient fables, biblical anecdotes, and lively episodes of courtly love, shaping them into a manuscript that marked one of the first literary uses of the emerging Italian tongue. The collection reflects the lively oral tradition of the era, preserving the wit and moral insight that entertained both solemn lords and carefree youths.

Listeners will discover a hundred short narratives that range from clever tricksters outwitting their rivals to poignant lessons on humility and generosity. Each tale captures the colors of medieval life—hunt, battle, feasting, and the bustling chatter of taverns—while offering timeless reflections on human nature. The anthology provides a vivid snapshot of early Italian storytelling, inviting modern ears to hear the voices that helped forge a new literary language.