On Famous Women

Highlighting the lives of 106 women from myth and history, this groundbreaking work serves as the first collection of women's biographies. Spanning figures from Eve to Queen Giovanna I of Naples, it reflects Boccaccio's dedication to exploring female narratives. Composed in Certaldo between 1361 and 1375, the text underwent revisions throughout Boccaccio's life. Dedicated to Andrea Acciaiuoli, the work underscores the significance of women's contributions across time, blending historical and mythical elements in a unique literary format.