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Orlando Furioso, Canto 6 summary

Canto 6 of 46 · 21 min to read the canto

In Canto 6, Ariodante reveals his identity and marries Ginevra, while Ruggiero lands on an island where Astolfo, transformed into a myrtle, warns him about Alcina. Ruggiero tries to avoid her territory, but two women rescue him from monstrous attackers, lead him into her city, and obtain his promise to fight Erifilla.

What happens

  1. Ariodante reveals himself, and the narrator explains his survival and decision to defend Ginevra against his brother.
  2. The king grants Ariodante marriage to Ginevra; Rinaldo secures Dalinda’s pardon, and she leaves to become a nun.
  3. The hippogriff brings Ruggiero to a beautiful island, where a damaged myrtle speaks and identifies itself as Astolfo.
  4. Astolfo describes Alcina’s love, rejection, and transformation of her lovers, then directs Ruggiero toward Logistilla’s territory.
  5. Monstrous guards block Ruggiero’s escape route, but two richly dressed women rescue him and escort him into Alcina’s city.
  6. Ruggiero agrees to fight Erifilla for the women, and they reach the bridge she guards.

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In this canto

RuggieroAstolfoRinaldo

What to notice

Astolfo identifies the instability beneath Alcina’s affection. His experience gives Ruggiero a direct warning against the pleasures surrounding him.

Quick check

Why does Ruggiero avoid mounting the hippogriff after speaking with Astolfo?

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