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Philosophies In Dante's Inferno

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Guidebook to the stars: The inferno as a philosophical work to salvation

The Inferno is a work that functions as a guidebook of life for its readers. With so many different philosophical messages to lead readers through different scenarios, Dante 's guidance is overlooked. Within the Inferno Dante shows his readers how they can go through life when they find themselves “within a dark wood, abandoning the road that runs true”. (I: 2,12) The Inferno is a philosophical work that guides by showing the reader a different view on actions that can be chosen.

Some, in classroom discussions, have suggested that Dante’s Inferno is about self-actualization. In this view, the epic’s purpose is to show Dante learning more about himself to the point of great improvement. Although within the Inferno Dante’s growth is not prominent, his self-actualization is an important quality of the story. Considering that self-actualization is not the purpose, that Dante has for the Inferno. Dante’s purpose …show more content…

Throughout the Inferno, many philosophies are presented. Seeing that his different philosophies are reoccurring it shows that, the philosophies are an important part of his overall message. To present these lessons to his readers it is Virgil who is scolding Dante, which also comes across as Dante scolding the reader to teach them. An example of this is when the Inferno Virgil tells Dante “No one attains fame propped down on pillows or under coverlets, and without fame you will waste your life and leave no more… than smoke in the air or foam on the water. So, stop gasping and get up (XXIV: 46-52). With this Dante wants to teach his readers that they should live active lives. Dante is also telling the readers what they should live for, which is making a difference in the world. He believes this because if you never make a difference and achieve fame then you are wasting your time on

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