1. The Concept of Humanism in Giovanni Boccaccio’s Decameron and William Shakespeare’s The Tempest Exploring Humanism in the Early Modern World During the fifteenth century, the term ‘humanism’ emerged as a newly rediscovered idea in the early modern world. It shifted the focus from divine entities to humanity itself, placing man at the center of the worldview (928). This rejection of supernatural powers influenced the literary works of the era, with authors embracing a humanistic perspective. While many texts from the early modern world touch upon humanism, Giovanni Boccaccio’s Decameron and William Shakespeare’s The Tempest stand out as prime examples. Today, humanistic values are often associated with the scientific advancement that shaped the modern world. Despite the mysteries unexplained by science, writers of that era anchored their narratives in humanistic ideals.

Giovanni Boccaccio, a humanist, penned the renowned story Decameron. Set against the backdrop of the Black Plague, the narrative follows several individuals who flee Florence to escape the devastation. Throughout the story, humanistic principles guide the characters` choices, shaping the course of their lives. Amidst the chaos of the plague, individuals assert their autonomy, eschewing reliance on divine intervention to chart their destinies.

Decameron portrays a starkly realistic portrayal of Florence during the plague, devoid of mystical occurrences. Boccaccio’s vivid imagery captures the city’s horrors, offering readers a glimpse into the grim reality of the time. Through graphic descriptions like, “One day, for instant, the rags of a pauper who had died from the disease were thrown into the street...” (939), Boccaccio depicts the harsh consequences faced by the inhabitants. In the face of such adversity, individuals turn inward, embracing their humanity as they navigate the crisis.

The decision of the group of ten individuals to flee Florence reflects the humanistic theme of self-determination. Rather than succumbing to despair, they exercise free will, defying societal norms and regulations. Their actions underscore the essence of humanism, emphasizing survival and individual agency in the face of adversity.

William Shakespeare also explores humanism in The Tempest, primarily through the character of Prospero. Prospero embodies humanistic values, prioritizing his emotions over divine mandates. Unlike Decameron, The Tempest incorporates elements of enchantment, with Prospero wielding magic as a means of asserting control. His mastery over magic symbolizes his authority, positioning him as a quasi-deity on the island. Prospero’s power-hungry nature underscores his humanistic drive for dominance and self-governance. Despite his flaws, Prospero’s leadership exemplifies the humanistic pursuit of autonomy and individualism.

2. The Concept of Humanism in Giovanni Boccaccio’s Decameron and William Shakespeare’s The Tempest Exploring Humanism in the Early Modern World During the fifteenth century, the term ‘humanism’ emerged as a newly rediscovered idea in the early modern world. It shifted the focus from divine entities to humanity itself, placing man at the center of the worldview (928). This rejection of supernatural powers influenced the literary works of the era, with authors embracing a humanistic perspective. While many texts from the early modern world touch upon humanism, Giovanni Boccaccio’s Decameron and William Shakespeare’s The Tempest stand out as prime examples. Today, humanistic values are often associated with the scientific advancement that shaped the modern world. Despite the mysteries unexplained by science, writers of that era anchored their narratives in humanistic ideals.

Giovanni Boccaccio, a humanist, penned the renowned story Decameron. Set against the backdrop of the Black Plague, the narrative follows several individuals who flee Florence to escape the devastation. Throughout the story, humanistic principles guide the characters` choices, shaping the course of their lives. Amidst the chaos of the plague, individuals assert their autonomy, eschewing reliance on divine intervention to chart their destinies.

Decameron portrays a starkly realistic portrayal of Florence during the plague, devoid of mystical occurrences. Boccaccio’s vivid imagery captures the city’s horrors, offering readers a glimpse into the grim reality of the time. Through graphic descriptions like, “One day, for instant, the rags of a pauper who had died from the disease were thrown into the street...” (939), Boccaccio depicts the harsh consequences faced by the inhabitants. In the face of such adversity, individuals turn inward, embracing their humanity as they navigate the crisis.

The decision of the group of ten individuals to flee Florence reflects the humanistic theme of self-determination. Rather than succumbing to despair, they exercise free will, defying societal norms and regulations. Their actions underscore the essence of humanism, emphasizing survival and individual agency in the face of adversity.

William Shakespeare also explores humanism in The Tempest, primarily through the character of Prospero. Prospero embodies humanistic values, prioritizing his emotions over divine mandates. Unlike Decameron, The Tempest incorporates elements of enchantment, with Prospero wielding magic as a means of asserting control. His mastery over magic symbolizes his authority, positioning him as a quasi-deity on the island. Prospero’s power-hungry nature underscores his humanistic drive for dominance and self-governance. Despite his flaws, Prospero’s leadership exemplifies the humanistic pursuit of autonomy and individualism.

3. The Concept of Humanism in Giovanni Boccaccio’s Decameron and William Shakespeare’s The Tempest Exploring Humanism in the Early Modern World During the fifteenth century, the term ‘humanism’ emerged as a newly rediscovered idea in the early modern world. It shifted the focus from divine entities to humanity itself, placing man at the center of the worldview (928). This rejection of supernatural powers influenced the literary works of the era, with authors embracing a humanistic perspective. While many texts from the early modern world touch upon humanism, Giovanni Boccaccio’s Decameron and William Shakespeare’s The Tempest stand out as prime examples. Today, humanistic values are often associated with the scientific advancement that shaped the modern world. Despite