The System of Dante's Hell

Dante's Hell is depicted as a structured, nine-tiered realm where souls are punished based on their sins. The severity and nature of each punishment reflect the sin committed, embodying a poetic justice. Closer to the center and bottom, the punishments grow more intense, illustrating the gravity of offenses like treachery or betrayal. This hierarchical design emphasizes moral order and the consequences of moral failings, guiding the soul’s journey toward eventual purification or damnation. The system combines theological principles with poetic storytelling to explore themes of justice, morality, and the human condition.