This seminar is a collective close-reading of Dante Alighieri's Inferno, the first canticle of the Divine Comedy, along with extended selections from Purgatorio and Paradiso. We will examine the poem's historical context, its intricate narrative structure, and its enduring influence. We will treat Dante’s poem as a gateway into the medieval world. Secondary reading will include near-contemporary chroniclers, theologians and poets as well as classic Greek and Roman authors such as Aristotle, Virgil and Ovid. No historical or religious background knowledge is required, only attention to detail and a willingness to be surprised. Sample discussion questions we will tackle with Dante: How can I distinguish between love and lust? How do I navigate a hyper-polarized society? What is justice? Is there value in suffering? How far should political prosecution go? How can I stand up to authority in a world where dissent is dangerous? Why are there spots on the moon?

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 20

Crosslisted Courses:

Prerequisites: None. Not open to students who have taken ITAS 363/MER 363.

Distribution Requirements: LL - Language and Literature

Typical Periods Offered: Fall

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall

Notes: This course is also offered at the 300 level as ITAS 363/MER 363.