1.Vigil first appears in Canto I line 47
2. Virgil is described as a wise poet and Dante’s guide through hell pg 7.
3. Virgil and Viswamithra are similar because they bring guidance and wisdom to guide the main characters. They also encourage them to overcome fear.
4. Virgil is a hero because he is honest, doesn't like punishment, and is very brave.
4 comments:
BA 7
I agree that Virgil is a hero in the classic sense described here but I think there is another aspect of heroism that is added by Dante to the epic hero we are used to thus far.
Virgil is clearly Dante's artistic model in life and that veneration that he has for him extends into the narration when he approaches him with the words: "you are my teacher, my master, and my guide" (2.113). On the plain of the story Virgil aids the protagonist through his journey while in life as a poet Dante looks to Virgil for creative guidance as a hero of verse. The protagonist says: "poet, take my measure now: / appraise my powers" (2.9-10), and it is almost as if Dante is speaking directly to Virgil.
I agree with the idea that Virgil is a mentor like that of Viswamithra. Dante asks Virgil questions like a willing student would. For example, Dante asks his “master” to “make clear their meaning [the sign and warning on the sign over hells entrance]” (3.10), Virgil knowing all to well, answers that “all fear must be left here, and cowardice die…”(3.12). In that sense I would consider Virgil a hero on the basis of his reassurance to Dante, and the fact that they begin (their journey) with a teacher student relationship.
I agree that he is a hero because of Dante's modeling himself after him. More than that though, he gives Dante the courage that he doesn't have, to conquer his own fear. This is heroic itself, because it is what he is Dante's biggest 'sin.'
I,also agree that Virgil is a hero in the Inferno, he is tasked with leading Dante through hell, it can be speculated that the experiene is equally as terrifying for Virgil as it is for Dante for Virgil was placed in limbo and is traversing hell's terrain for the 1st time. Also Virgil shows courage when he and Dante encountered Cerberus, "My leader, reaching out to fill both fists.." Dante tells of Virgils actions "Threw gobbets of earth down each voracious throat"(VI,23-25)allowing Dante and himself to pass the beast and continue onward through hell.
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