5 Quotes & Sayings By Giovanni Boccaccio

Giovanni Boccaccio was born near Naples, Italy, in 1313. He was tutored by the poet Petrarch, who encouraged him to read the classics. His first love was poetry, but he also showed an early interest in Roman history and philosophy. He began his career as a clerk in the papal palace, but then became an official of the papal court Read more

In 1340, he was elected Bishop of Florence, where he served until his death in 1375. His masterpiece is The Decameron (1353), often considered to be the first true "novel" in Western literature. Giovanni Boccaccio was a writer of considerable refinement and humor—enduringly popular through centuries of European culture.

1
You must read, you must persevere, you must sit up nights, you must inquire, and exert the utmost power of your mind. If one way does not lead to the desired meaning, take another; if obstacles arise, then still another; until, if your strength holds out, you will find that clear which at first looked dark. Giovanni Boccaccio
2
In this world, you only get what you grab for. Giovanni Boccaccio
3
His hair stood upright like porcupine quills. Giovanni Boccaccio
4
Do as we say and not as we do. Giovanni Boccaccio