Examples Of Hellish Behavior In Dante's Inferno

Idolizing Hellish Behaviors

Dante’s Inferno offers literal discussion and allegorical account of historical individuals while emphasizing heavily on the political crisis of the 14th century in which he lived. In addition Dante’s poem assesses the problem of modern society cherishing those whose actions only earned themselves a place in the fiery pits of Hell. His cantos serve as a condemnation of some of the most idolized historical and political figures in his time and now. In the late middle ages political and religious stability was crumbling sparking corruption of souls; many claimed to be the Pope, courtly love turning adulterous, majority of people failing to control of bodily desires, etc. Dante’s pilgrimage through the Inferno lets the reader witness many well-known legends who fell to these corruptions scattered throughout the circles of Hell. This work creates contradictions in the morals and values of today’s culture; history remembers figures such as Achilles and Helen of Troy by just their positive attributes however, their

Consistent with the biblical saying that avarice is "the root of all evils" medieval Christians, including Dante believed the sin of avarice was far viler than one of love (utexas.edu). “Your city-one so full of envy that its sack has always spilled…three sparks that set on fire every heart are envy, pride, and avariciousness” (Inferno Canto 6). In this Canto, Dante conveys his distraught over Florence and government and religious officials; all of them being morally and politically corrupt. As a result, Dante applies the sin of greed to the cause of ethical and religious corruption of 14th century leaders in society; metaphorically representing this sin as a common debauchery of political leaders and clergymen in