In this guide, Peter J. Leithart brings his rich biblical-typological insight to bear in opening up the Comedy for students, high school and up, mainly the sort of kids who keep looking for the jokes in the “comedy.” After examining the meaning and place of the courtly love tradition leading up to Dante, the heart of the guide walks us carefully through the craft and symbolisms of each progressive stage—Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso. Each section contains helpful study questions.

Week 3

The Syllabus is very detailed. Follow the instructions and answer the questions in your syllabus. Many times there are no questions just outlines. In those situations take notes under each section of the outline from your reading. Your teacher may give additional or alternative assignments.

The Introduction

Most people do not read the introductions to books. They just dive in and start reading the book. In this case, it is important to start with the introduction. Historical perspective and background are essential to understanding and enjoying Dante's works.

The syllabus highlights some key areas in the Introduction of the book and asks some questions of the student. I recommend reading all of the introduction. Take notes only on the part required in the syllabus on pages 10 and 11. Fill in page 14 as you read through the book.

Scheduling

I have found in teaching the syllabus over the past years that Week 3 is fairly light and Week 4 is very heavy as far as workload for the students. In order to even it out, I include all the way through Canto IX of Week 4 ( page 25) in the Week 3 assignment.

Reading Tips

Each Canto is preceded by a brief description of the of the Story line. This is very helpful for the reader to keep up with the plot. At the end of each Canto there are sections entitled Images and Notes. If the reader lived during Dante's time period, these would not be necessary. Many of the names of historical and literary figures are explained here. Much of the symbolism modern readers are unfamiliar with are also explained. Many prefer to read the Notes and Images before reading the Canto. That way the material is easier to understand at the first reading.

A more thorough approach would be to read the Canto and try to understand as much as you can. Then read the Images and Notes section. Now go back and read the Canto once more with more understanding.