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Orlando furioso is an epic poem written by Ludovico Ariosto and published in 1516. It is considered a masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance. The poem continues the story of Orlando, a hero from the Charlemagne epics.12

The narrative centers on three main plotlines: Orlando's unrequited love for Angelica, which drives him mad (hence furioso); the war between Christians and Saracens near Paris; and the love story of Ruggiero and Bradamante. Ariosto skillfully weaves these episodes together, unified by his own distinct narrative voice and a refined spirituality that imbues his characters. The poem explores themes of sensual love, tempered by irony and artistic detachment.1

Orlando furioso was immensely popular across Europe and significantly influenced Renaissance literature.1

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. Orlando
  2. Ludovico Ariosto

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