Why Dante Matters: An Intelligent Person's Guide

John Took offers an original view of Dante Alighieri, a poet who divided the world with Shakespeare and meditated on the nature of human happiness. He discusses three of Dante's works: the Vita Nova, the Convivio, and the Commedia, which confirm him as a cultural icon and a guide to man's wellbeing.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

John Took presents a fresh and unique perspective on one of the most influential poets and thinkers in Western literature, Dante Alighieri. As T. S. Eliot aptly remarked, Dante "divides the world with Shakespeare, there being no third." Like ours, his world was characterized by moral uncertainty and political violence, which not only led to the pain of exile but also fostered an ever-deepening contemplation on the essence of human happiness. In his book, Why Dante Matters, John Took explores Dante's artistic development through three of his major works: the Vita Nova, the Convivio, and the Commedia. Rather than merely documenting Dante's growth as a poet and philosopher, Took delves into the enduring relevance of Dante's teachings to our well-being as human beings.

Committed to the welfare of his contemporaries as well as those who will regard his time as ancient, Dante emerges as a discourse that spans centuries, affirming his status as not just a cultural icon but also a fellow traveler. Through his profound insights and poetic prowess, Dante continues to guide us on our journey toward understanding and fulfillment.

As we commemorate the 700th anniversary of Dante Alighieri's death in 2021, it is essential to recognize the profound impact his works have had on the world of literature and philosophy. Dante's ability to capture the complexities of human existence, his moral and political commentary, and his exploration of the nature of happiness have resonated with readers for centuries. By examining the three major works of Dante, we gain a deeper understanding of his artistic development and the enduring relevance of his teachings.

The Vita Nova, often considered the great work of Dante's youth, offers a glimpse into his early life and the influences that shaped his poetic vision. Through its vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, Dante explores themes of love, friendship, and the search for meaning in a world plagued by moral uncertainty. The Convivio, his masterpiece of middle age, represents a philosophical and social commentary on the state of society during his time. In this work, Dante examines the nature of friendship, the role of women in society, and the importance of living a virtuous life. The Commedia, Dante's final and most famous work, is a comedic masterpiece that weaves together a narrative of sin, redemption, and divine grace. Through its vivid characters, witty dialogue, and theological themes, the Commedia offers a profound exploration of human nature and the nature of the divine.

In Why Dante Matters, John Took offers a comprehensive account of Dante's development as a poet and philosopher, exploring the themes and motifs that recur throughout his works. He also examines the enduring relevance of Dante's teachings to contemporary society, highlighting the ways in which his insights into the human condition continue to inform our understanding of morality, politics, and the pursuit of happiness.

Dante's influence extends beyond literature and philosophy. His works have inspired countless artists, musicians, and filmmakers, who have sought to capture the essence of his vision in their own creative endeavors. From the visual representations of Dante's characters in medieval art to the musical compositions inspired by his poetry, Dante's legacy continues to resonate across different artistic mediums.

Moreover, Dante's teachings have had a profound impact on the development of religious and spiritual traditions. His belief in the interconnectedness of all things and his emphasis on the importance of living a virtuous life have influenced the teachings of many religious figures, including St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Augustine. Dante's vision of a divinely ordered universe has also inspired scientists and philosophers who seek to understand the nature of the cosmos and our place within it.

In conclusion, Dante Alighieri's legacy as a poet and thinker is truly remarkable. Through his three major works, the Vita Nova, the Convivio, and the Commedia, he offers a profound exploration of human nature, morality, and the divine. John Took's book, Why Dante Matters, provides a valuable insight into Dante's development as a poet and philosopher, highlighting the enduring relevance of his teachings to contemporary society. As we commemorate the 700th anniversary of Dante's death, it is essential to recognize his profound impact on the world of literature, philosophy, art, and religion. Dante's legacy continues to inspire and guide us on our journey toward understanding and fulfillment.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 161 x 241 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472951038