or Boccacio, John, one of the most polite and learned writers of his age, was born in Tuscany in 1313. His father first placed him with a merchant; but as he gave signs of genius, he was put afterward to study the canon law: he lost almost as much time at this as at the last occupation; and thought of nothing but poetry. He came under the instruction of Petrarch; but did not so entirely devote himself to poetry, as to forget other studies. In the prosecution of these, however, as he sought everywhere for the best matters, and had not an income sufficient for his expenses, he was reduced to such circumstances as to stand in need of the bounty of others; he was particularly obliged to Petrarch, who furnished him with money as well as books, and assisted him in many other respects. Boccace was a great admirer of the the Greek language: he found means to get Homer translated into Latin for his own use; and procured a professor's chair at Florence for Leontius Pylatus, in order to explain this poet. The republic of Florence honoured Boccace with the freedom of that city; and employed him in public affairs, particularly to negotiate the return of Petrarch: but this poet not only refused to return to Florence, but persuaded Boccace also to retire from thence, on account of the factions which prevailed in that republic. Having quitted Florence, he went to several places in Italy, and stopped at last at the court of Naples, where King Robert gave him a very kind reception. He conceived a violent affection for the natural daughter of that prince, which made him remain a considerable time at Naples. He also made a long stay in Sicily, where he was in high favour with Queen Joan. He returned to Florence when the troubles were a little appeased: but not liking the course of life he must have followed there, he retired to Certaldo; and, far from the noise of business, he spent his time in study agreeably to his own humour. His great application brought on him an indisposition, of which he died in 1376. He wrote several books, some learned and ferocious, others of gallantry and full of stories. It is by his Decameron chiefly that he has immortalized himself. Petrarch found so many charms in this composition, that he was at the pains to translate it into Latin for his own satisfaction.