The First Terrace: The Proud

Dante and Virgil enter the first terrace of Purgatory, where the proud are purged. The terrace is paved with white marble adorned with sculptures depicting examples of humility: the Annunciation, David dancing before the Ark, and Emperor Trajan and the widow. The souls of the proud walk bent under heavy stones, their faces to the ground. They recite the 'Our Father.' Dante speaks with Omberto di Santafiore, who was brought low by pride, and Oderisi d'Agobbio, an illuminator who laments the vanity of earthly fame. Oderisi points out Provenzan Salvani, who humbled himself to ransom a friend. This terrace teaches the lesson of humility through art and example.