Dante and Augustine

This insightful exploration reveals how Dante's thoughts on poetry were influenced by Augustine's ideas, making Dante and Augustine a vital read for literary scholars.

In Dante and Augustine, Simone Marchesi offers a fresh perspective on the enduring dialogue between Dante and Augustine, delving into complex questions surrounding language, poetry, and interpretation. This work transcends traditional literary inquiries, engaging with technical aspects of Dante's evolving thoughts on the nature of poetic language and its implications for meaning. Marchesi explores how Dante reflected on his role as a writer, grappling with fundamental questions about the mechanics of language and the interplay between text and commentary.

Throughout his career, Dante confronted essential questions about the essence of writing and the nuances of poetic expression. The author examines these inquiries in the context of Augustine's philosophical influence, revealing how Augustine's reflections shaped Dante’s understanding of his poetic mission. The book presents Dante as a dynamic thinker, committed to a radical defense of poetry while remaining open to re-evaluating his own views on linguistics and hermeneutics.

Dante and Augustine is not only a literary analysis but also an intellectually coherent study that highlights the intricate relationship between these two influential authors. Marchesi skillfully navigates the complexities of Dante's thought, drawing from classical and post-classical linguistic traditions. His graceful writing style and comprehensive approach make this book a significant contribution to both Dante studies and the broader discourse on rhetorical and hermeneutical ideas.