Midway upon the journey of this our life
I found myself within a forest dark,
For the straightforward path was lost to me.

The Divine Comedy, composed by Dante Alighieri between 1308 and 1320, is widely considered to be the preeminent work of Italian literature and among the greatest poetic masterpieces in the world. An epic poem in three parts, it tells the story of Dante’s journey through the landscape of the afterlife: Inferno describes the suffering of souls misshapen by sin and vice. Purgatorio explores the theme of repentance and the reform of character. Paradiso reveals the transcendent glory and freedom attainable in God.

Through the course of his journey, the pilgrim Dante is accompanied by three guides: Virgil, representing human reason; Beatrice, who represents divine revelation, theology, faith, and grace; and Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, representing contemplative mysticism and devotion to Mary the Mother of God. Each in turn is charged with leading Dante further along a path of revelation, mirroring the ascent of the individual soul.

Course Lectures

1: Poetry and Character
2: At the Gates of Hell: The Journey Begins
3: Confronting Disordered Loves
4: Freedom from the Inferno
5: The Shores of Mount Purgatorio: Desire and Grace
6: The Seven Terraces: Learning How to Love Well
7: Repentance and Rebirth
8: Rising to Paradiso: “In His Will Is Our Peace”
9: The Theological Virtues
10: The Celestial Rose and the Victory of God

Taught by Larry P. Arnn, president of Hillsdale College, where he is also a professor of politics and history, and Stephen Smith, Temple Family Professor in English Literature at Hillsdale College. Revolving enrollment. Please enroll HERE.