In the midst of the bubonic plague ravaging Florence in 1348, a group of nobles and their servants find themselves at Villa Santa, a grand estate in the Italian countryside. This is the setting for Netflix’s dark comedy series, “The Decameron,” which explores the chaos and survival instincts of its characters as they navigate a world turned upside down by disease and desperation.
The series begins with Visconte Leonardo inviting a select group of guests to escape the horrors of the plague. Among them are his bride-to-be Pampinea, her devoted handmaiden Misia, and a mix of nobles and their companions, each harboring their own secrets and agendas. However, the twist is that Leonardo has already died before the guests arrive, setting the stage for a tumultuous series of events.
As the plague rages outside, the characters grapple with their own survival. The showrunner, Kathleen Jordan, describes the series as a blend of “Love Island” and “Lord of the Flies,” where the initial lavish holiday devolves into a struggle for life. The tension escalates as mercenaries storm the villa, leading to a series of sacrifices among the nobles to protect the remaining residents.
By the end of the first season, only a handful of characters survive: Sirisco, Licisca, Filomena, Misia, Stratilia, and Jacopo, the son of Stratilia and Leonardo. The journey to this point is fraught with betrayal, loss, and unexpected alliances. Tindaro, who has developed a bond with Stratilia and Jacopo, and Panfilo, who has succumbed to nihilism after losing his wife Neifile to the plague, both meet tragic ends while trying to save the others.
The character dynamics are complex, particularly the relationship between Licisca and Filomena, who are revealed to be sisters. Their tumultuous bond is marked by jealousy and resentment, stemming from a lifetime of hidden truths. Licisca’s journey from anger to forgiveness is a poignant aspect of the narrative, showcasing the depth of familial ties even in the face of betrayal.
As the series unfolds, viewers witness the demise of several key characters. Dioneo, known for his reckless behavior, meets his end after a night of debauchery, while Neifile’s death devastates Panfilo, who had just begun to confront his feelings for her. The series does not shy away from the harsh realities of the plague, but it also highlights moments of beauty and rebirth amidst the tragedy.
One of the most shocking moments comes when Misia kills Pampinea, a culmination of their toxic relationship. Misia’s loyalty is tested throughout the season, and when she discovers that Pampinea was never pregnant, it becomes the breaking point for her. This act of violence serves as a powerful commentary on the complexities of love and loyalty, as Misia grapples with her own identity and worth.
The fate of Villa Santa hangs in the balance as the mercenaries take control, leaving the survivors to contemplate their next steps. Stratilia reveals that Leonardo intended for Jacopo to inherit the villa, but the future remains uncertain. The final scenes depict the survivors venturing into the woods, sharing laughter and stories, symbolizing their newfound freedom from the constraints of class and societal expectations.
The conclusion of “The Decameron” leaves viewers with a sense of hope, despite the darkness that permeates the narrative. The characters, having endured unimaginable loss, find solace in each other and the stories they share. The series ultimately serves as a reflection on the human experience, emphasizing the importance of connection and storytelling in the face of adversity.
As the characters navigate their new reality, the question of who truly survives the Decameron becomes a poignant exploration of resilience and the bonds that tie us together. The series invites viewers to reflect on their own lives and the stories that shape their identities, making it a compelling watch for those seeking both entertainment and deeper meaning.
With its rich character development and intricate plotlines, “The Decameron” stands out as a unique addition to the Netflix lineup. The blend of humor and tragedy, coupled with the exploration of class struggles during a pandemic, resonates with contemporary audiences, making it a timely and relevant series.
As the first season concludes, fans are left eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for the survivors of Villa Santa. The journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the quest for belonging continues, promising more twists and turns in the seasons to come.
Source: Netflix
