Justinian and the Roman Eagle

The history of the Roman Empire as recounted by Emperor Justinian in the Heaven of Mercury.

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Justinian's Introduction

The Emperor's Speech The Identity A light approaches and identifies itself as Justinian. He explains that he was Caesar and, inspired by divine love, reformed the laws. The Correction of Faith He was initially a Monophysite but was corrected by Pope Agapetus. He then devoted himself to the law and entrusted military affairs to Belisarius.

The History of the Eagle

The Roman Standard From Pallas to Caesar Justinian traces the Roman Eagle from its origins with Aeneas, through the kings, to the Republic and Julius Caesar. He recounts key battles and heroes. The Empire under Augustus The Eagle brought peace to the world, closing the temple of Janus. Under Tiberius, it avenged the sin of Adam through Christ's crucifixion.

The Condemnation of Factions

The Guelphs and Ghibellines The Two Sides Justinian condemns both the Guelphs (who oppose the Eagle) and the Ghibellines (who claim it for a party). Both sin against justice. The Warning to Charles He warns the new Charles (Charles of Valois) not to strike down the Eagle, lest he suffer the fate of those who opposed it.

Romeo's Story

The Faithful Minister Romeo's Service Justinian tells the story of Romeo, a poor pilgrim who served Raymond Berenger well, marrying off his four daughters to kings. But he was falsely accused and left poor and old. The Reward Romeo's good deeds are remembered in Heaven, though ill-rewarded on earth. His story illustrates the theme of justice delayed.

The Joy of the Blessed

The Harmony The Song Justinian and the other lights sing 'Osanna' and dance. Their joy is proportional to their merit. The Lesson Dante learns that the desire for fame, when directed to worthy ends, can be rewarded in Heaven, but it is inferior to pure love of God.

In the second heaven, Mercury, among the ambitious for fame

During Justinian's discourse, in Mercury

After the history, in Mercury

At the end of Justinian's discourse, in Mercury

After Justinian's speech, in Mercury