Giving careful consideration to the social, cultural, and historical contexts in which he wrote, this volume examines the scope and significance of Dante's work. An inquisitive guide to one of literature's most important authors, it explores the various influences that shaped his writing, from cultural traditions and exile, to political figures and the works of his contemporaries.

Examining a wide range of Dante's writing, with an emphasis on his Commedia, the book also outlines the reception, appreciation, and interpretation of Dante's work by later readers, from the fourteenth century to the present, and it considers the impact of his work on the visual and performing arts. Other distinctive features are new translations of substantial passages from Dante's poems, new translations of the writings of his contemporaries, explanatory diagrams of Dante's 'otherworlds', and a selection of illustrations by medieval and modern artists. Chronologies of Dante's life and afterlife and a full bibliography with relevant web resources are also included.

More than just an overview of Dante's life and work, this volume builds a vivid and complex picture of his imagination, intellect, and literary presence.