Flashcards Dante’s Inferno: Canto Sins, Contrapasso, and Punishments

When was The Divine Comedy composed?

In Italy in 1318.

What years did Dante Alighieri live?

1265 to 1321.

Why was Dante Alighieri exiled?

For being against Papal Authority in Florence.

What is the main theme of The Divine Comedy?

Redemption through intellect in faith and commentary on corruption.

How is The Divine Comedy structured?

Divided into 100 cantos, covering Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradisio.

What does 'Inferno' mean in Dante's context?

It means 'basement of the world' or 'the beneath'.

Who guides Dante through the Inferno and Purgatorio?

Virgil, his most respected Hellenic poet.

Who guides Dante through Paradisio?

Beatrice, his lost love from youth.

What do the three beasts represent in The Divine Comedy?

The Leopard represents Lust, the Lion represents Pride, and the She-wolf represents Avarice.

What does the term 'Contrapasso' refer to?

The rule that for every sin, there is an equal and fitting punishment.

What is the punishment for the Opportunists in Canto 2?

They run naked through a swarm of hornets and wasps, with worms and maggots feeding off their sores.

What sin do the Carnal commit in Canto 5?

They are those who only ever worked and cared about themselves.

How are the Carnal punished?

They eternally chase a banner in circles while being stung by wasps and hornets.

What sin is addressed in Canto 12?

Violence against others, specifically Wrath.

What is the punishment for those who commit violence against others?

They are trapped in a river of boiling blood, shot by centaurs to keep them at their designated level.

What sin is punished in Canto 13?

Suicide.

How are suicides punished in Dante's Inferno?

They are turned into trees and tortured by Harpies.

What sin is addressed in Canto 34?

Betrayal, including betrayal of subject for king, family, and God.

How are the Treacherous punished?

They are fixed in ice in uncomfortable positions, forced to stare at Dis.

What is the appearance of Dis in Dante's Inferno?

He has three faces of different colors and wings that are not feathered.

What does Dis's crying signify?

It shows that he does not enjoy his role; this is his punishment too.

What does Dis's size represent?

His size embodies evil, as described in the paradise lost story.

What do the wings of Dis symbolize?

They symbolize darkness and are the engine that keeps the Inferno cold.

What is the significance of the punishment fitting the crime?

It reflects the principle of Contrapasso, where the punishment relates to the sin committed.

What does Dante's journey represent?

A spiritual journey towards redemption and understanding of sin and punishment.

What role does Virgil play in Dante's journey?

He serves as a guide through the realms of the afterlife, providing wisdom and insight.

What is the significance of Beatrice in The Divine Comedy?

She represents divine love and guides Dante through Paradisio.

What does the term 'souls' refer to in The Divine Comedy?

It refers to those being punished in the afterlife.