Dante's Journey through Paradise

Dante ascends through the nine heavens of Paradise, guided by Beatrice, and finally beholds the vision of God.

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Ascent to the First Heaven

The Ascent The Sphere of Fire Dante and Beatrice ascend through the sphere of fire to the first heaven, the Moon. Dante is amazed at his own lightness. Beatrice explains the order of the universe and how all things move toward God. The Moon: Inconstant Spirits In the Moon, they meet Piccarda Donati and the Empress Constance, who were forced to break their vows. They appear faint because their wills were not fully steadfast. Piccarda teaches Dante about the peace of conforming to God's will.

The Heaven of Mercury and Venus

Mercury: Ambitious Souls Justinian's Discourse In Mercury, the souls of those who sought fame and honor appear. Justinian recounts the history of the Roman Eagle and condemns both Guelphs and Ghibellines. He praises Romeo, a faithful minister. Venus: Lovers In Venus, the souls of lovers appear. Charles Martel discusses the diversity of human talents and the importance of following one's nature. Cunizza da Romano and Folco of Marseilles speak of their past loves and the corruption of the Church.

The Heaven of the Sun: Theologians

The Sun: The Wise The Circle of Theologians In the Sun, Dante sees a circle of twelve lights, the great theologians. St. Thomas Aquinas recounts the life of St. Francis and laments the decline of the Dominican Order. St. Bonaventure then recounts the life of St. Dominic and criticizes the Franciscans. The Dance of Lights The two circles of lights dance around Dante and Beatrice, singing of divine wisdom. Thomas clarifies that Solomon's wisdom was kingly, not absolute, and warns against hasty judgment.

The Heaven of Mars: Martyrs

Mars: The Warriors of Faith The Cross of Mars In Mars, the souls of martyrs and crusaders form a glowing cross. Dante sees his ancestor Cacciaguida, who speaks of the old Florence and prophesies Dante's exile. Cacciaguida's Prophecy Cacciaguida tells Dante of the bitter bread of exile and the bad company he will endure. He encourages Dante to write boldly, for his poem will be a vital nourishment despite initial offense.

The Empyrean and the Vision of God

The Empyrean The River of Light Dante enters the Empyrean, the tenth heaven, where he sees a river of light that transforms into the White Rose of Paradise. The blessed are arranged in tiers, and angels fly between them. The Beatific Vision St. Bernard prays to the Virgin Mary for Dante's final vision. Dante looks into the Eternal Light and sees the three circles of the Trinity, with the human form of Christ within. His desire and will are turned by the love that moves the sun and the other stars.

After leaving the Earthly Paradise, noon of Easter Sunday

After the Moon, ascending to Mercury and Venus

After Venus, ascending to the Sun

After the Sun, ascending to Mars

After the Primum Mobile, entering the Empyrean