Dante and his Inferno

Born in Florence Italy, Dante Alighieri was a poet, literary theorist, moral and political philosopher. During his life, Dante belonged to a political group called the White Guelphs who were at disagreement with the Black Guelphs over the influence of the Papal who where consequently exiled. The Black Guelphs however soon returned to power and exiled the White Guelphs along with Dante who were ordered to stay away from Florence and pay a fine. Dante conversely refused to pay the fine. While other White Guelphs where eventually granted permission to return to Florence, Dante wasn’t.  Dante went on to personally slander Pope Boniface VIII with his famous epic poem The Divine Comedy.

Even without the utility of a printing press, Dante's rhyming style assured that everyone would hear his side of the story. He put those responsible for his exile in an ironic literary interpretation of Hell, reserving a special spot for Pope Boniface VIII.  Dante died and remains in Ravenna still serving his seven century long exile. In 2008, the city of Florence pardoned Dante and awarded him the Golden Florine, the city’s highest honor, sparking the argument again. As a result, Dante’s last inheritor, Serego Alighieri, boycotted the ceremony.

Learn more about Dante and his works with Dante For Beginners also check out our updated website www.forbeginnersbooks.com that showcases our December releases.