The Encounter with Brunetto Latini

Dante and Virgil walk along the stone bank of the rivulet, protected from the falling flames. They encounter a company of souls who gaze at them intently. One of them seizes Dante's garment and cries out in wonder; it is Brunetto Latini, Dante's former teacher. Dante expresses deep reverence and gratitude. Brunetto prophesies Dante's future glory and the hostility of the Florentines, comparing them to the blind, avaricious, envious people descended from Fiesole. He urges Dante to follow his star and cleanse himself of their customs. Brunetto names other notable sodomites among the crowd, including Priscian, Francis of Accorso, and a bishop transferred from Arno to Bacchiglione. He commends his Tesoro to Dante and departs, running like one who wins the green mantle at Verona. This episode is notable for its tender portrayal of Dante's affection for his teacher and the prophecy of his exile.