Image for Ludovico Ariosto's "Orlando Furioso"

Ludovico Ariosto's "Orlando Furioso"

"Orlando Furioso," written by Ludovico Ariosto in the early 16th century, is an epic poem that continues the story of the knight Orlando and his adventures in the context of the Carolingian Wars. It explores themes of love, madness, and heroism, weaving together a tapestry of knights, courtly love, magical beings, and conflicts. The poem's rich narrative features a wide array of characters and intertwining plots, illustrating the complexities of human emotion and the challenges of chivalric ideals. Often celebrated for its imaginative storytelling, it has significantly influenced literature and the development of the epic genre.