The Fifth Terrace: The Avaricious and Prodigal

Dante and Virgil ascend to the fifth terrace, where the avaricious and prodigal are purged. The souls lie prostrate on the ground, weeping and reciting 'Adhaesit pavimento anima mea.' Dante speaks with Pope Adrian V, who confesses his avarice and explains that he converted only after becoming pope. He asks Dante to pray for his niece Alagia. Another soul, Hugh Capet, recounts the history of the Capetian dynasty, condemning the greed and violence of his descendants. He prophesies the coming of a new Charles who will oppress Florence. An earthquake shakes the mountain, and the souls cry 'Gloria in excelsis Deo.' This terrace condemns the love of money and the abuse of power.