Professor Esolen's translation of Dante's Inferno is the best one I have seen, for two reasons. His decision to use unrhymed blank verse allows him to come nearly as close to the meaning of the original as any prose reading could do, and allows him also to avoid the harrowing sacrifices that the demand for rhyme imposes on any translator. And his endnotes and other additions provoke answers to almost any question that could arise about the work." —A. Kent Hieatt
A groundbreaking bilingual edition of Dante's masterpiece that includes a substantive Introduction, extensive notes, and appendixes that reproduce Dante's key sources and influences. Of the great poets, Dante is one of the most elusive and therefore one of the most difficult to adequately render into English verse. With this major new translation, Anthony Esolen has succeeded brilliantly in marrying sense with sound, poetry with meaning, capturing both the poem's line-by-line vigor and its allegorically and philosophically exacting structure, yielding an Inferno that will be as popular with general readers as with scholars, teachers, and students. For, as Dante insists, without a trace of sentimentality or intellectual compromise, even Hell is a work of divine art.
Esolen's edition also provides a critical ntroduction and endnotes, with appendices containing Dante's most important sources—from Virgil to Saint Thomas Aquinas and beyond —that deftly illuminate the religious universe the poet inhabited.
Verse Translation by Anthony Esolen Illustrations by Gustave Doré
Editorial Review
Inferno is a compelling work by Dante Alighieri and Anthony Esolen that has captured the attention of readers worldwide. With a excellent rating of 4.03 out of 5 from 161,294 readers, this book has proven its appeal to a broad audience.
The book explores rich themes that keep readers engaged from start to finish. Professor Esolen's translation of Dante's Inferno is the best one I have seen, for two reasons. His decision to use unrhymed blank verse allows him to come nearly as close to the meaning of the original as any prose reading could do, and allows him also to avoid the harrowing sacrifices that the demand for rhyme imposes on any translator. And his endnotes and other additions provoke answers to almost any question that could arise about the work." —A.
Published by Modern Library, in 2022, this 490-page volume, offers approximately 13 hours of reading time. The book demonstrates the publisher's commitment to quality literature and has been well-received by both critics and casual readers alike.
— Reviewed by Editorial App Deal Library ·
Why Read This Book?
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Highly Rated by Readers — Inferno holds an impressive 4.03/5 rating from 161,294 readers, reflecting its wide appeal and consistent quality.
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Trusted Author — Dante Alighieri and Anthony Esolen is known for delivering quality writing that engages readers with compelling storytelling and well-researched content.
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Comprehensive Coverage — At 490 pages, this book provides thorough and in-depth exploration of its themes, giving readers a rich and immersive experience.
Reading Recommendations
Readers who found Inferno compelling often discover similar enjoyment in "The Translator of Desires: Poems (The Lockert Library of Poetry in Translation)", "Dante's Purgatorio: The Divine Comedy, Book Two" and "The Aeneid". These recommendations are based on shared themes, writing style, and reader preferences.
Quick Summary
Dante Alighieri's 'Inferno,' translated by Anthony Esolen, presents a profound exploration of the afterlife and human sin through a vivid narrative. This bilingual edition combines Esolen's unrhymed blank verse translation with detailed notes and appendices that illuminate the text's historical context and influences. Readers will engage with Dante's intricate allegories while gaining insights into moral and philosophical themes.
Key Takeaways
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Understanding of Dante's complex allegories and moral lessons.
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Insights into the historical and cultural context of the work.
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An appreciation for the challenges of translating classical poetry.
Who Should Read This Book
This edition of 'Inferno' is ideal for students, scholars, and anyone interested in classic literature and poetry. It appeals to readers who seek a deeper understanding of Dante's work, as well as those who appreciate rich annotations that enhance the reading experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this translation unique?
Anthony Esolen's use of unrhymed blank verse allows for a closer representation of the original Italian text while maintaining readability.
Is this edition suitable for beginners?
Yes, the extensive notes and introduction provide helpful context, making it accessible for those new to Dante.
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