Dantes Inferno Quiz

Dante's "Inferno" is the first canticle of the "Divine Comedy," a 14th-century Italian epic poem written by Dante Alighieri between approximately 1308 and 1320. It is widely considered the greatest work of Italian literature and one of the greatest works of world literature. The "Inferno" depicts Dante's journey through Hell, guided by the Roman poet Virgil. The poem begins with the famous opening line: "Nel mezzo del cammin di nostra vita" ("Midway upon the journey of our life"), as Dante finds himself lost in a dark wood at the age of 35 - Symbolically halfway through a life span of 70 years.

The Nine Circles of Hell

Hell in Dante's "Inferno" is structured as a funnel-shaped pit divided into nine concentric circles, each containing sinners whose punishments mirror or inversely reflect their earthly sins - A concept known as "contrapasso." The circles descend in severity: Limbo (unbaptized souls and virtuous pagans), Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Wrath/Sullenness, Heresy, Violence, Fraud, and Treachery. At the very bottom of Hell's ninth circle is Satan himself, frozen in ice, with three heads devouring Judas Iscariot, Brutus, and Cassius - The three greatest traitors in Dante's view. Virgil guides Dante through Hell and Purgatory, but only Beatrice - Dante's idealized love - Can lead him through Paradise.

The "Inferno" is rich with historical and mythological figures, classical allusions, and sharp political commentary. Dante uses Hell to deliver judgments on real figures from his era - Popes, Florentine politicians, and historical enemies appear among the damned. The structure, imagery, and concepts of the "Inferno" have profoundly influenced Western art, literature, and theology. Artists from Botticelli to William Blake to Auguste Rodin (whose famous "The Thinker" was originally designed as part of his Gates of Hell sculpture) have been inspired by it. Modern works ranging from video games to novels continue to draw on Dante's vivid hellscape. Test your knowledge here - Also try our poetry quiz.