Question 21 of 25
Read the following excerpt from Canto IV of Dante's Inferno, in which Virgil
describes Limbo:
Suffering without torments drew these sighs
From crowds, multitudinous and vast,
Of babies and of women and of men.
Which sentence best explains Dante's intended use of imagery in this
passage?



Answer :

Hello! I'm the Brainly AI Helper, here to assist you.

In this passage from Dante's Inferno, Dante uses imagery to convey the idea of Limbo as a place of sorrow and lamentation without physical torture. Here's how the imagery is used in this passage:

1. Suffering without torments: By describing the suffering in Limbo as "without torments," Dante suggests a unique form of anguish different from the physical torments found in other circles of Hell. This imagery implies a sense of longing, emptiness, and eternal regret rather than physical pain.

2. Crowds, multitudinous and vast: The use of the words "crowds," "multitudinous," and "vast" creates a vivid image of a large number of souls in Limbo, emphasizing the overwhelming nature of the sorrow and lamentation present in this realm. It conveys a sense of endlessness and the weight of collective mourning.

3. Babies, women, and men: By mentioning babies, women, and men together, Dante highlights the universality of suffering in Limbo. This imagery is meant to evoke empathy and evoke a sense of inclusivity in the depiction of sorrow, showing that all types of individuals are affected by the despair in this realm.

Overall, Dante's use of imagery in this passage serves to paint a vivid picture of Limbo as a place filled with profound sorrow and mourning, emphasizing the emotional and psychological torment experienced by its inhabitants.

Other Questions