About the Book

"Abandon all hope, ye who enter here" read the now-famous words above the gate through which Dante, the protagonist of Inferno, crosses the threshold. But that forbidding inscription applies only to those without faith; and though Dante's journey through the nine circles of Hell begins with terror and confusion, it ends with an understanding of the divine plan and the realization of divine love. Along the way, Dante meets an array of sinners from Christian and classical history and legend--a fascinating cast of characters that has intrigued and instructed readers since Inferno was first published in 1317.

Book Synopsis

"Abandon all hope, ye who enter here" read the now-famous words above the gate through which Dante, the protagonist of Inferno, crosses the threshold. But that forbidding inscription applies only to those without faith; and though Dante's journey through the nine circles of Hell begins with terror and confusion, it ends with an understanding of the divine plan and the realization of divine love. Along the way, Dante meets an array of sinners from Christian and classical history and legend--a fascinating cast of characters that has intrigued and instructed readers since Inferno was first published in 1317.

Review Quotes

"The book is translated by J. Simon Harris in such a way that you can understand what Dante's original vision was. The very detailed illustrations of not only Florence but also the circles of hell were fascinating. No one has ever translated Dante's vision quite like this. You will gain a new respect for the poet." - Anelynde Smit, Readers' Favorite

About the Author

Dante Alighieri (1265-1321) was a statesman, poet, and philosopher who lived in Florence, Italy. His Divine Comedy is considered one of the greatest poems of the Middle Ages and an epic in world literature.