Reading deeply through the Seven Terraces in Purgatory for the second time, several things have been standing out regarding the deeper causes of many of the vices in the Comedy. In some cases there are crucial points for a fuller understanding and for changing the perception of these vices on in some ways a metaphysical level.
For example: Envy is due to the misguided choice of values. Intellectual Pride is largely from a dismissal of what lies beyond Reason’s own boundaries and limitations. Wrath is the lack of rational management of the impulses, and sometimes tied to the first two vices – wishing ill for others. Sloth is the lack of realizing that one might be too late for things, that the metaphorical train might have left your station in life. And the vices of the She-Wolf Avarice, Gluttony and Lust are in some ways to fall for the illusion of the Monster; that it appears as a Siren through your own Gaze. Which also requires a lack of rational training and awareness.
And for all of these aspects, the Virtues of Purgatory are simple helpers to offset, balance, and improve these inclinations in life. And they build an at times incredibly sparkling and brilliant filter through which to see and understand the world. This is the timeless wisdom of the Greeks and the Biblical Stories, about the deeper forces that might shape our lives, but that could be transformed and adjusted to be forces of Good instead. Old Wisdoms and Treasures, as timeless Gifts.
