"Abandon all hope, ye who enter here" read the now-famous words above the gate through which Dante, the protagonist of Inferno, crosses the threshold. But that forbidding inscription applies only to those without faith; and though Dante's journey through the nine circles of Hell begins with terror and confusion, it ends with an understanding of the divine plan and the realization of divine love. Along the way, Dante meets an array of sinners from Christian and classical history and legend--a fascinating cast of characters that has intrigued and instructed readers since Inferno was first published in 1317.
Dante Alighieri
Dante Alighieri was an Italian poet and philosopher born in Florence in 1265. His most notable work is "The Divine Comedy," a narrative poem that follows the author's journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. This work is considered a masterpiece of world literature and a cornerstone of Italian literature. Dante's writing style is characterized by its intricate symbolism, vivid imagery, and profound philosophical insights. His contributions to literature include popularizing the use of vernacular language in poetry and shaping the development of the Italian literary tradition. Dante's impact on the literary genre of epic poetry and his enduring influence on Western literature make him one of the most celebrated and influential writers in history.