Stories from the Pentamerone

The 'Pentamerone,' also known as 'Lo Cunto de li Cunti' (The Tale of Tales), is a seminal collection of fairy tales published by Italian author Giambattista Basile in the early 17th century, around 1634. Basile was born in Naples and is often regarded as one of the first collectors of folk tales, laying the groundwork for later fairy tale compilations by figures such as the Brothers Grimm and Charles Perrault. His work is characterized by its baroque style and rich narrative, blending folklore with the literary tradition. The 'Pentamerone' features a diverse array of stories, often with tragic and humorous elements, reflecting the complexities of human nature and societal norms. Basile's unique voice and innovative storytelling techniques have earned him a vital place in the history of fairy tales, influencing generations of storytellers and writers across Europe.