Cacciaguida's Prophecy of Exile

Dante's ancestor Cacciaguida foretells his exile and encourages him to write his poem boldly.

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Meeting Cacciaguida in Mars

The Ancestor The Star on the Cross A light descends from the cross of Mars and addresses Dante in Latin, calling him 'my blood.' Dante is amazed and turns to Beatrice, who smiles. The Identity The light reveals itself as Cacciaguida, Dante's great-great-grandfather. He speaks of the old Florence and his own life.

Cacciaguida's Life and Death

The Crusader The Baptism Cacciaguida was born in Florence and baptized in the Baptistery. He married a woman from the Po valley, and his surname came from her. The Martyrdom He followed Emperor Conrad on a crusade and was knighted. He died fighting against the Saracens, earning martyrdom and this place in Heaven.

The Prophecy of Exile

The Bitter Future The Banishment Cacciaguida prophesies that Dante will be forced to leave Florence, like Hippolytus from Athens. He will taste the salt of another's bread and climb another's stairs. The Bad Company Dante's companions in exile will turn against him, but he will be better off alone. His first refuge will be with the Lombard (Can Grande della Scala).

The Encouragement to Write

The Poetic Mission The Bold Truth Cacciaguida urges Dante to make his vision manifest, even if it offends. The truth, though bitter at first, will be vital nourishment later. The Famous Souls He explains that only famous souls are shown to Dante, because examples with unknown roots would not convince readers. Dante's poem must be a witness to the truth.

Dante's Gratitude

The Acceptance The Resolve Dante accepts his fate, armed with foresight. He vows to write what he has seen, despite the risk of losing friends. The Light's Joy Cacciaguida's light flashes with joy at Dante's determination. The encounter strengthens Dante's purpose as a poet.

In the fifth heaven, Mars, among the martyrs

During the conversation in Mars

After Cacciaguida's life story, in Mars

After the prophecy, in Mars

After Cacciaguida's speech, in Mars