Author Archives: ancientworld

A new series! We’ll look at the first book in Dante’s Divine Comedy, with brief overviews and highlights – and how this work is relevant for understanding and navigating the world better. In this episode we’ll look at the opening, … Continue reading →

In the slow anticipation of Ante-Purgatory, Virgil and the Pilgrim meet Sordello, an Italian poet and fellow Mantuan of Virgil. “But see that spirit stationed over there, all by himself, the one who looks at us; he will show us … Continue reading →

Here are the words from Virgil (as Reason) as they’ve started the climb, but the Pilgrim is too distracted by what the other souls might be whispering: “Keep up with me and let the people talk! Be like a solid … Continue reading →

As the Pilgrim and Virgil pass through the tiny opening in the mountain wall of rocks, Virgil proclaims: “Now, do not change your course, keep climbing up the mountain, close to me, until we find a more experienced guide.” Suggesting … Continue reading →

After the Pilgrim has lost his sense of time while being absorbed in a conversation, he and Virgil have the tiny opening in the mountain rock wall pointed out them – symbolic of how hard it could be to find … Continue reading →