Orlando Furioso, Tomo II

by Lodovico Ariosto

"Orlando Furioso, Tomo II" by Lodovico Ariosto is an epic poem published in its definitive form in 1532. This sweeping tale continues the unfinished romance of Boiardo, weaving together stories of Christian paladins battling Saracen invaders across a fantastical world. Knights, sorceresses, flying horses, and sea monsters populate forty-six cantos exploring war, love, and chivalry. Central threads include Orlando's maddening unrequited love for the pagan princess Angélica and the romance between warrior Bradamante and Saracen Ruggiero—legendary ancestors of Ariosto's patrons.