Divine Comedy, Longfellow's Translation, Purgatory

** The Divine Comedy, written by Dante Alighieri, is an Italian epic poem that tells the story of the poet's journey through the nine circles of Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. The poem is divided into three cantiche, or books, and is written in terza rima, a type of poetic verse. In the second book, Purgatory, Dante is guided by the Roman poet Virgil as he ascends a mountain where souls are purified before entering Heaven. Along the way, they encounter various historical and mythological figures, as well as other souls who are being purified. The story explores themes of sin, redemption, and spiritual growth, and is known for its rich imagery, complex symbolism, and philosophical insights. The narrative style of the poem is characterized by its use of allegory, where characters and events are used to represent abstract ideas and moral concepts. The poem also features a range of literary devices, including metaphor, simile, and allusion, which add to its depth and complexity. Through its exploration of the human condition, the poem aims to convey the importance of moral responsibility, the need for spiritual growth, and the ultimate goal of achieving a state of divine love and understanding. **