Dante's Esotericism

Drawing on the traditional teachings of the cosmic cycles and the three worlds, as well as Dante's own work, René Guénon guides us through the hidden meanings of the Divine Comedy and the poet's relationships with the initiatory organizations of his time.

By pointing out the errors of the commentators' systematic interpretations, he highlights the purely metaphysical meaning of the poem, shedding light on the symbolic use of numbers and on certain historical events of the early 14th century. Finally, he enlightens us as to the influences that Dante received, providing important information on Hermeticism, Islamic Esotericism and the secret orders of the Middle Ages. A valuable aid for every reader of the Divine Comedy.

A well-documented treatise on the metaphysical value of the Divine Comedy and the initiatory meaning of Dante's work.