The Contrasting Mandalas of Dante and Milton's Conceptions of Hell

From the earliest translations of the Bible, the word 'hell' has often been misunderstood. Most people today are familiar with its reference to a place of torment, but this is far from its original meaning. The term hell as it appears in the Bible is a translation of the Hebrew word 'Sheol' and the Greek word 'Hades'. Both words primarily refer to the world of the dead or simply 'the grave'. This misunderstanding has led to a series of misconceptions about the nature of hell and the concept of the afterlife, which this article aims to clarify through a detailed analysis of Dante's and Milton's literary works.

Understanding the Biblical Context

The teaching of human souls continuing to live after the body dies is a misconception. The word 'soul' in the Bible never refers to something invisible that survives death. According to the Bible, death is a punishment for mankind's disobedience, inherited by all from Adam. Jesus, by becoming a perfect human and sacrificing his life, sought to free humanity from this punishment. The notion of souls living on after death would undermine the value of this sacrifice. If you are interested in learning more about what the Bible really says, please feel free to reach out.

The Dichotomy of Dante and Milton

Dante Alighieri and John Milton offer almost polar opposite conceptions of hell. Dante's vision is one of a place that destroys human community and love, while Milton's portrayal is of a highly organized demonic kingdom.

Dante's Hell: A Community Destroyer

Dante's conception of hell in his 'Divine Comedy' is essentially a place that eliminates human community and love. The infernal circles are structured with a clear understanding of how various sins impact human relationships and society. 'Fleshy sins' like lust are considered less problematic because they represent love gone wrong, while the worst sins - fraud and treason - are so catastrophic that they prey on the fundamental idea of charity, the 'agape', that underpins human societies.

In Dante's vision, certain ‘lovers’ who engaged in extramarital affairs are found in the second circle of hell but treated more kindly. They are encircled by stormy whirlwinds, symbolizing the lack of control over their passions during life. Conversely, the ninth circle, reserved for traitors, is a place of eternal isolation and punishment by eternal ice. Dante's portrayal of Satan as a parody of God, creating suffering and ice through his own rebellious desires, encapsulates the idea of evil as a self-destructive quality.

Milton's Hell: An Organized Kingdom

In contrast, Milton's portrayal of hell in 'Paradise Lost' reveals a highly organized demonic kingdom. Unlike Dante's hell, which is portrayed as a tiny and confined space, Milton's hell is vast and well-structured. Satan, who Milton sees as the anti-hero of the narrative, is depicted as a charismatic and headstrong rebel fighting for a cause he knows will inevitably fail. The poem serves as a thinly veiled political statement, advocating for the continuation of rebellion against the divine order.

Political and Philosophical Implications

Dante lived during a time of great feudal anarchy, and his vision of hell reflects his longing for a unified Roman-Christian monarchy. He saw the increasing power of the papacy as a destructive force, leading him to dream of reuniting Italy under a just ruler. Milton, a zealous Puritan, took a different view. He openly supported the idea of a religious dictatorship, which he later came to reject in his old age. Milton's Satan embodies the struggle against this divine authority, reflecting his own political sympathies.

Social and Theological Implications

Milton's portrayal of Eve and Adam in 'Paradise Lost' offers key insights into societal gender roles. Eve, portrayed as intelligent and independent, is lured by Satan, embodying Milton's concerns about female sexuality and its dangers. Adam's infatuation with Eve underscores the patriarchal perspectives of the time, where women were often seen as temptresses. In contrast, Dante's Beatrice, representing divine love and wisdom, is a figure of salvation and exalted love. She symbolizes the ideal woman, embodying the Platonic idea of the 'good and beautiful'.

Concluding Thoughts

Dante and Milton offer two distinct visions of hell, reflecting their different worldviews and the historical contexts in which they lived. Though they are centuries apart, their works continue to influence our understanding of morality, politics, and spirituality. By exploring these contrasting mandalas, we gain a deeper appreciation of the complex narratives and themes that have shaped Western literature and culture.

Keywords

Dante's Hell Milton's Paradise Lost Conceptions of Hell