The Role of Women in Dante's JourneyThe three heavenly ladies (Virgin Mary, Lucia, Beatrice) who initiate and guide Dante's salvation.1The Virgin Mary's CompassionBefore the journey, in the Court of Heaven2Saint Lucia's AidBefore the journey and during the ascent of Purgatory3Beatrice's Descent to LimboBefore the journey, in Limbo4Matilda's Role in the Earthly ParadiseIn the Earthly Paradise, after Virgil's departure5Beatrice's Final IntercessionIn the Empyrean, during Bernard's prayer