Dante's Deadly Sins is a unique study of the moralphilosophy behind Dante's master work that considers theCommedia as he intended, namely, as a practical guide tomoral betterment. Focusing on Inferno and Purgatorio,Belliotti examines the puzzles and paradoxes of Dante's moralassumptions, his treatment of the 7 deadly sins, and how 10 of hismost powerful moral lessons anticipate modern existentialism.
* Analyzes the moral philosophy underpinning one of the greatestworks of world culture
* Summarizes the Inferno and Purgatorio, whileunderscoring their moral implications
* Explains and evaluates Dante's understanding of the'Seven Deadly Sins' and the ultimate role they play asthe basis of human transgression.
* Provides a detailed discussion of the philosophical concepts ofmoral desert and the law of contrapasso, using charactercase studies within Dante's work
* Connects the poem's moral themes to our own contemporarycondition
Raymond Angelo Belliotti
Angewandte Ethik Applied Ethics Philosophie Philosophy Philosophy of Religion Religion & Theology Religion u. Theologie Religionsethik Religionsphilosophie Religious Ethics
"In this thought-provoking book Belliotti draws Dante's Commedia into conversation with existentialist philosophy. . . Despite these questions, Belliotti's book is essential reading for anyone interested in Dante. In it the reader will find a refreshingly different take on the moral vision underscored by Dante's Commedia." (The Heythrop Journal, 24 July 2015)"Belliotti demonstrates remarkable parallels between Dante's moralvision and modern Existentialist philosophy. He skillfullyelucidates moral possibilities that we too confront when challengedby evildoing, punishment, freedom, and love."
--Robert Ginsberg, Director, The International Center for theArts, Humanities, and Value Inquiry
"Most engaging about this work is the author's distinctive visionand voice, his capacity to bring together unexpected combinationsof thought and style in ways that are insightful and productive.This is a work informed by broad learning, yet comfortable withpersonal anecdotes and pop culture references. As an exploration ofclassic literature as the source of philosophical engagement, it isoriginal and thought-provoking."
--Jeffrey Nesteruk, Franklin & Marshall College
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