Given the stress we have all felt as the world deals with the Covid-19 virus, it seems appropriate to interweave two ideas: work written during the time of plague or that includes the idea of plague as part of its content, with that most enduring aspect of human experience: love. Relax, pour yourself a glass of wine, read, think, and turn on your computer for a stimulating series of discussions!

All sessions will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Copies of the books have been reserved for those participating in the discussions, and can be picked up at the front dest of West End Library without first reserving the book in the normal way. The sessions will be held over WebEx, and access will be provided for those who are not members of West End Library Friends by My T. Nguyen at the library. Email: my.nguyen@dc.gov

During the time of the Black Plague of 1347-51, ten noble young men and ladies take refuge up in the hills outside of Florence, in Fiesole. To pass the time over the ten days that they are there, they entertain each other with stories—ten of them each day. We will read a handful of these, framed by Boccaccio’s description of the plague itself.

During the time of the Black Plague of 1347-51, ten noble young men and ladies take refuge up in the hills outside of Florence, in Fiesole. To pass the time over the ten days that they are there, they entertain each other with stories—ten of them each day. We will read a handful of these, framed by Boccaccio’s description of the plague itself.