Examples Of Allusions In Dante's Inferno

Although Inferno is a religious text describing the Christian paradigms of Dante loved Florence immensely and wanted to see it thrive, but he instead was forced to watch as the citizens, political leaders, and religious leaders out the city into a downward spiral of immorality and conflict. The allusions Dante uses in the Inferno contribute to his goal of helping the readers understand the evils he is exposing. Each different allusion represents some aspect of political, social, or religious life that Dante believed needed reform in his society. Specifically, in the Canto V, Dante references many famous figures of antiquity, ranging from myths to rulers, since his audience recognizes these characters which allows Dante to emphasize his view
on the adultery and infidelity in Florence.Dante could have easily commanded his people not to commit the sin of lust and adultery but instead he uses his poetic epic to describe “Cleopatra… Helen… the great Achilles… Paris… [and] Tristan” all suffering in the second circle of hell. Most of the Italian population at the time were familiar with famous classical texts and the history of antiquity and by using them, Dante captures the audience’s attention and familiarizes them to what he is saying. Although Dante densely packs his work with allusions, as long as the reader understands one his point comes across. Furthermore, many of these figures are regarded as legendary and heroic and by depicting them in eternal suffering, Dante is telling his audience that regardless of wealth or class or legacy, all sinners will be punished accordingly.