Terminating pregnancies in Boccaccio

Abstract

Analyzing examples from the Decameron (c.1349–53), De mulieribus claris (1361), and the Corbaccio (1355), I argue that Boccaccio (1313–75) demonstrates an awareness of theological, legal and medical opinions on abortion and contraception at the time. However, he is more attuned to the practical concerns of pregnancy than are many of his contemporaries. Acknowledging the variety of situations facing pregnant people and some parts of their lived experience that were ignored by many religious and legal authorities, Boccaccio highlights a disconnection between theory and practice, and thereby raises questions about the limits of abstract knowledge in the face of practical concerns.

Keywords

Boccaccio pregnancy abortion controlling fertility contraception theory and practice

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