The Inferno and Incontinence
A great work of literature, Virgil’s Inferno provides us with an insight into the life of Geryon, a man who is a liar and a fraud. It is an image of how one can be betrayed by others and how one can defy their own oaths.
Virgil’s distinction between sins of ‘incontinence’, sins of ‘violence’, and sins of ‘Frode’
Virgil’s distinction between sins of ‘incontinence‘, ‘violence’, and ‘Frode’ is one of the most elegant and important in all of Dante’s work. It’s easy to see why the distinction of sins within the Inferno has been an interesting topic for scholars for so long.
Incontinence is a lesser form of violence, and it’s punished outside of the city of Dis. It’s also less condemnable than fraud. The term simony is used to describe the sale of ecclesiastic offices, favors, and things that belong to God.
Violent sins are punished in the city of Dis. These sins are categorized into two types: sins of force, or mad bestiality, and sins of incontinence.
Incontinence is less condemnable than malice or bestiality
In a nutshell, incontinence is a real thing. It is not so much the lack of a lack. Hence, it is not all that bad. The trick is figuring out when it actually happens. For instance, there are times when we’re just a tad too slack. Using this tactic, we can avoid a tad too much admonishing.
Dante is no exception. In fact, he’s even been known to indulge in the requisite sex and sexiness of the female kind. Hence, incontinence ain’t all that bad. Moreover, the right type of man can be quite rewarding. Likewise, the wrong kind can be just as bad.
Traitor, betrayer, and oathbreaker
A traitor, betrayer, and oathbreaker is someone who betrayed his or her masters, country, and friends. The betrayed man or woman usually dies in such circumstances. Moreover, if he or she survives, he or she may want revenge on those who betrayed him or her.
In Inferno, treachery, betrayal, and oath-breaking are grouped in the Circle of Treachery. This circle is the ninth in Hell’s hierarchy. It is situated in the frozen landscape of Ninth Circle.
During this journey, Dante learns of the abduction of Beatrice by Lucifer. He also encounters Count Ugolino. Count Ugolino is a traitor to Italy. However, his real name is Count of Pisa.
Blasphemy, sodomy, and usury are unnatural and sterile actions
In 14th-century Italy, sodomy, blasphemy, and usury were considered capital offenses. It was believed that the three sins subverted proper teleological ends and that they were sterile and unnatural.
One of the most famous of Dante Alighieri’s poems, “Inferno,” provides a narrative-poetic depiction of usury. Although Campfire Cooking Kit
it has been portrayed in the same manner in other works by the Italian poet, the most comprehensive treatment of this particular crime remains internal to the Inferno. The narrative-poetic depiction is based on a scholastic argument against usury, and a good portion of the work is devoted to illustrating the virtues of a just recompense.
Geryon is an image of fraud
In Dante’s Inferno, the image of fraud is symbolized by Geryon. This monster combines the natures of reptiles, fish, and man. The creature is a vile creation. Its stinging tail reminds us of scorpions. Moreover, its snake-skin coloring awakens our vision.
In this canto, Dante and Virgil have to approach the ominous monster. Dante is not mentally engaged when they approach him. He fears Virgil’s reproach. But Virgil reassures him. And he encourages Dante to talk to the sinners. Ultimately, Dante is paralyzed by the presence of the monster.
The opening of the canto is dramatic. Moreover, there is a sudden shift to the last part of the canto.
