DIVINE COMEDY OWC : PB Paperback – 30 October 2009

Excellent! Lucid and clear

i was happy to recieve the order in time and the book was as per the description now it sits in my collection. thankyou

OverviewDante Alighieri's The Divine Comedy is a monumental work of literature that continues to captivate readers with its profound exploration of the human soul's journey towards God. Translated by C. H. Sisson and published by Oxford University Press, this edition of the Commedia offers an accessible yet deeply engaging entry point into Dante's timeless masterpiece.The Craft of DanteDurante degli Alighieri, known simply as Dante, was a contemporary of Giotto, both of whom revolutionized their respective arts during the Italian Renaissance. Giotto's frescoes depicted the divine through naturalistic images, while Dante's Divine Comedy presents a literary cosmos that intertwines the personal and universal. Through his alter-ego, Dante the Pilgrim, Dante invites readers on a journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven, offering a lens through which to view the human condition and divine justice.Political InsightsDante’s political commentary is intricately woven throughout the Divine Comedy. Exiled from Florence in 1301, Dante spent his final years as a wanderer, writing his magnum opus between 1308 and 1320. His political views are vividly expressed, with historical and contemporary figures populating Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven. In Inferno, Dante condemns his enemies, including Pope Boniface VIII, while Purgatorio and Paradiso reflect his ongoing critique of political and religious corruption.Dogmatic and Theological ThemesThe Divine Comedy is rich with Christian dogma and theological exploration. Dante’s innovative cosmology includes realms like Limbo and Pre-Purgatory, and delves into complex concepts such as free will and predestination. His portrayal of the soul’s journey towards divine understanding serves as both a personal testament and a universal allegory, resonating with readers across different faiths and philosophies.Narrative TechniquesOne of the most remarkable aspects of Dante’s work is his sophisticated use of narrative voices and perspectives. The protagonist, Dante the Pilgrim (DP), serves as a mirror for the reader's own spiritual journey. Guided initially by Virgil and later by Beatrice, the narrative unfolds through a series of allegorical encounters and prophetic visions. This layered storytelling, combined with Dante’s masterful use of multiple characters, creates a rich and multifaceted narrative that keeps readers engaged.Structural and Symbolic ComplexityThe structure of The Divine Comedy is meticulously designed, with each of the three cantiche (Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso) containing 33 canti, plus an introductory canto, totaling 100. This numerical precision extends to the realms Dante describes: nine circles of Hell, nine terraces of Purgatory, and nine celestial spheres of Heaven. Each realm follows a moral scheme, adding depth to Dante’s exploration of sin, redemption, and divine justice.Translation and Edition SpecificsC. H. Sisson’s translation in this Oxford University Press edition is notable for its clarity and accessibility. While the original Commedia is written in terza rima, Sisson opts for blank verse, which better suits the English language. This choice, while altering the poem's original structure, makes it more approachable for contemporary readers. The edition also includes valuable supplementary materials such as maps, diagrams, and timelines, which enhance the reader's understanding of Dante's intricate world.Why Read The Divine Comedy?Timeless Themes: The Divine Comedy explores universal themes of sin, redemption, and the quest for divine understanding. Its insights into the human condition remain relevant today.Rich Symbolism: Dante’s use of symbolism and allegory provides a multi-layered reading experience that rewards repeated study and contemplation.Historical Context: Understanding the political and religious landscape of Dante’s time adds depth to the reading experience, offering insights into medieval thought and culture.Narrative Mastery: Dante’s sophisticated narrative techniques, including his use of multiple voices and perspectives, create a dynamic and engaging story.Literary Influence: As one of the greatest works of world literature, The Divine Comedy has influenced countless writers, artists, and thinkers. Reading it connects you to a rich tradition of intellectual and artistic exploration.Accessible Translation: C. H. Sisson’s translation makes this complex work accessible to modern readers, while the supplementary materials provide valuable context and guidance.Personal ReflectionReading The Divine Comedy is a transformative experience. The poem’s narrative depth and allegorical richness make it a timeless exploration of human nature and divine aspiration. Gustave Doré’s illustrations, often accompanying the text, capture the ethereal and mystical qualities of Dante’s vision, further enriching the reading experience.ConclusionThe Divine Comedy remains one of the most significant works of literature, a testament to Dante's genius and the enduring power of his vision. This Oxford World Classics edition, with its accessible translation and comprehensive notes, is an excellent choice for both newcomers and seasoned readers. Dante’s journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven is more than just a literary masterpiece; it is a profound exploration of the human spirit and its quest for divine truth. Highly recommended.

The translation is good.

Great book.Awfully handled and packed by the seller.The pages were stained at the bottom, the back cover had fold marks on it, and the spine was worn out.Supposed to be a new copy, yet looks and feels like it's second-hand.Extremely dissatisfied with the retailer.

Not the whole book. But in parts.

Am really satisfied with this book. Thank u Amazon for this book.