The Literary Life Podcast Episode 241: Why Read Dante with Jason Baxter
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Sep 10, 2024 Dr. Jason Baxter, a scholar renowned for his insights on Dante, delves into the reasons behind Dante's newfound popularity and modern readers' challenges. He explores the big questions poetry can address and discusses the unique nature of The Divine Comedy as a poetic work. The conversation touches on Dante's cosmology, his psychological depth, and practical approaches for first-time readers. They also contemplate the connections between Dante and Milton, emphasizing the transformative power of literature across cultures and time.
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Dante's Resurgence
- Dante's resurgence in popularity may be due to a cultural craving for dense, slow, and comprehensive works.
- Modern discourse is often fragmented and fast-paced, and Dante offers a stark contrast.
Poets' Diverse Interests
- Great poets like Dante and Milton draw intellectual fodder from diverse interests and activities.
- This broad perspective allows them to address fundamental human questions in their poetry.
Obstacles for Modern Readers
- When approaching Dante, be prepared for unfamiliar metaphors, classical rhetoric, and the complex architecture of hell.
- Understand that Dante's characters often express views ironically, requiring careful reading.