Love is an element that guides Dante throughout the Commedia. It is something that helps him start his journey and continue it. One of the main reasons he begins his journey is because of his wife which can be attributed to the love he has for her. Dante also wants to receive love from god so he does not end up in hell. He is able to use love to do things and to keep himself from doing things. Overall love is a major factor in the choices he makes.
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I feel like some part of it is also Dante’s love for his craft (poetry) and for his love of country (Italy). Dante expresses his love for his craft through Virgil and how in awe he is of everything Virgil says. His love for country is shown when he specifically asks for any Italians in every circle that he goes into then, in most cases, proceeds to judge them for what they have done.