Reading Dante’s Divine Comedy for the first time can be confusing. The poem includes references to classical literature, medieval theology, Italian politics, and literary issues that scholars are still debating. In addition, there are many translations (some good, some not so good) to choose from. This article will help you get started on this amazing and very rewarding journey.

The Story

The Divine Comedy is Dante’s story of his journey through the afterlife of Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven. It begins with Dante waking from sleep, lost in a dark wood. After a few attempts at escape, he encounters the poet Virgil, who tells Dante the only way out is down through the center of the earth through Hell. Virgil leads Dante through Hell, encountering terrifying scenes of punishment as well as meeting up with various inhabitants from Florence, the Bible, and classical literature. The journey through Hell ends with Dante and Virgil meeting Satan and escaping out of the other side of the earth.

The two travelers then encounter the Mountain of Purgatory, where they join all those destined for Heaven in the journey of purification. Just as in Hell (Inferno), Dante meets up with real and fictional characters, each with a story to tell.

Near the top of the Mountain of Purgatory, Dante changes guides and begins his journey through Paradise (Heaven) culminating in a vision of God.

From  Dante Explorer.

Dante’s Divine Comedy is a journey through the afterlife of Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise, written by one of the greatest classical poets in history. Here are ten reasons why this great work of literature should still be read today.

1. The Divine Comedy is a gripping and fascinating journey through the afterlife unequaled in literature.

Many scholars believe that the Divine Comedy is the greatest single work of poetry ever written. In the words of T.S Elliot: “Dante and Shakespeare divide the world between them - there is no third.”

2. The story is as exciting and fresh today as it was in the 14th century.

Monsters, adventure, politics, sex, love, relationships, good and evil, this story has it all.

3. It can be enjoyed and appreciated on many levels.

Besides being the ultimate adventure, The Divine Comedy is loaded with history, intrigue, allegory, religion, and yes even comedy.

4. This is a work that can’t be read just once.

Like all great literature, this work demands multiple readings. It speaks to us wherever we are in life’s journey, and grows as we grow.

5. It covers the whole range of emotions.

Frustration, confusion, terror, rage, compassion, and love. And that’s just in the first book.

6. It’s an education in theology, philosophy, and history.

Learn about Aquinas, the classical philosophers, artists, and poets as well as the political, and religious leaders of Dante’s lifetime.

7. The inhabitants of Hell remind us some people we know.

Let’s face it, maybe somebody in the office?

8. Souls don’t always end up where you think.

Popes in Hell, killers in Heaven, it’s all about redemption and mercy.

9. Everyone loves a story about a journey.

Earth, Hell, Purgatory, Heaven. The greatest journey.

10. It has a happy ending.

After a rough start, Dante ends up in Heaven. This is ultimately a story of hope.

 Dante Explorer is a journey through Inferno, Purgatory, and Paradise with Dante. 
Newest post:  "Carnage in Hell".