This is a spoiler-free review!
I have not read classic literature in some time and have had this collection on my shelf for a little over six months - it was time to dive into La Divina Commedia in its entirety. Inferno details Dante's descent into Hell, Purgatorio follows Dante as he finds his way back to Beatrice, and Paradiso finalizes the collection with Dante going to Heaven and beyond. The structure of Dante's canti in all three installations is easy to follow and creates a flow in which the reader is able to process information quickly and often without any difficulty. The addition of the translator's timeline and notes for specifics lines in the canti truly aids in the reader's understanding of both context and intent behind Dante's choice of words as well as his commentary throughout his journey.
Inferno's description of Dante's travels into the coldness of Hell with the guidance of Virgil speaks volumes to the picture of Hell the public had during Dante's time - freezing layers compiled and structured for specific sins and offenses, each one more torturous than the last. The way Dante is able to describe the horrors faced by sinning individuals as the circles of Hell are explored and assigned to a sin was intriguing - as someone who was raised Catholic, we never went in depth on this aspect of religion, rather focusing on life before and after the crucifixion. As Dante attempts to find salvation, these circles confront him with the consequences of committing sins and what may be in store for others.
Purgatorio continues Dante's journey as he begins the climb up the Mount of Purgatory after emerging from Hell. As he makes his way through the nine levels, he encounters and observes sinners as they too await their exit from Purgatory. Through these observations, Dante is able to become a better man and continue on in his journey as he takes what he has learned and enters the Garden of Eden. This second installment invites the reader to bear witness to redemption and self reflection through allegory. The canti are somewhat more complex than those found in Inferno, but once you are able to get your bearings, it moves along quickly. There is a much larger religious tone and commentary from Dante here, and with the knowledge that he was critical of how Christianity was being practiced, it is understandable that he aims to more extensive in his commentary.
Paradiso wraps up his venture as ascension to Heaven is complete, and Dante finds himself in the space beyond as he transcends. This final volume allows Dante to give his own interpretation of what the heavens reflect, as well detailing a transcend toward the Trinity. He is finally reunited with Beatrice and readers are exposed to detailed descriptions of astronomy and theology as Dante reaches his final place. I would say this is heaviest of the three to get through, as Dante's canti lean more into Beatrice's relationship to theology and the astronomical makeup of the heavens. Compared to the other two volumes, I would say Paradiso was not as drawing to me as a reader and fell in ranking when it comes to holding my interest.
The complete collection was a pleasure to read - as someone who does not engage in religious exploration often, it was interesting to see the expansion on stages of life, consequences, and influence it has on an individual. Dante's experiences as he makes his way through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven is enriching and thought-provoking. Kirkpatrick's incredibly detailed notes at the end of the three volumes was even more eye-opening, and it has further powered my interest in furthering my classical literature exploration and understanding.
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