The essay provides a deep analysis of Canto V of Dante's Inferno. It studies Francesca and Paolo, their sin, Dante's reaction
to Francesca's story, and the various
interpretations critics have of Canto V. The
significance of Francesca's presence in this Canto and the themes that come through in her speech and interaction with Dante are important to the Divine Comedy as a whole. The essay explores the significance of Canto V in regard to Dante's views on love, sin, pleasure and discusses the 'dolce stil novo' movement of the time. It also looks at the various interpretations that the Canto has inspired among critics. Francesca has been seen as both gentle and innocent, and as a deceptive maipulator. Dante the pilgrim's sympathy is explained in regard to Dante the poet's desire to express messages to the reader.