The Effect of the Divine Comedy on Modern Literature

Writing, in all of its forms, exists as both one of the simplest and most complex activities that one can engage in. Nearly anyone can put pen to paper and create a work of literature. However, what makes a novel or any written work memorable or significant can be incredibly difficult to define. From the characterization to the plot, any author who truly wishes to make an impact on the lives of his readers must perfect nearly every element of writing. Some authors strive to accomplish a goal far greater than being memorable, however, they strive to be infamous. In fact, a controversial novel often creates a far more memorable or significant experience than one, which is widely read and accepted. In 1314, Dante Alighieri finished what would become one of the most controversial and infamous novels of all time, The Divine Comedy. Both praised and hated, The Divine Comedy, will always have a place in the great collections of poetry. In fact, the work has become so influential that many novels have been written in succession to it, incorporating many of the ideas and thoughts that were first conceived by Dante. Perhaps the most recent example of a novel to be influenced by The Divine Comedy would be The Dante Club, written by Matthew Pearl. However, the influence of Dante Alighieri and his poetry can be found in numerous works throughout history and have been a continuous influence on the world of literature, such an influence can be directly seen in The Dante Club, by Matthew Pearl.