Comparing The Odyssey, The Aeneid, and “Inferno” from The Divine Comedy.
In comparing the 3 works of literature, I found the common element of the journeys the main characters adventure on as well as the guidance that comes along within those journeys. We saw help from the gods in Odysseus’ travels as well as help from Venus and other divine powers in Aeneas’ travels. In Dante’s journey through the paths of Hell, he receives guidance from Virgil. Since Dante was inspired by Virgil’s work, he perceives Virgil as trustworthy to guide him through the dangers of Hell. However, the difference here is that while Odysseus and Aeneas couldn’t reach the equals to their gods and goddesses (forms of guidance), Dante was able to become close to his counterpart. As Dante advanced in hell to gain spiritual reformation, his faith becomes stronger. The distinction is that because Virgil was not of higher power, but just a trusted mentor, so Dante was able to become equal, if not surpass Virgil spiritually. Also, what is interesting and different is that Dante and Virgil are in a totally different world in that they are able to put faith in a higher power, God, in a religion. Odysseus and Aeneas are not able to advance in faith of a higher power, because it’s harder for them to communicate with divinity.