Poet Mary Jo Bang concludes her two-decade-long exploration of Dante's 'Divine Comedy'
After two decades of dedicated work, renowned poet Mary Jo Bang has finally completed her translation of Dante Alighieri's epic masterpiece, *The Divine Comedy*. The latest instalment, *Purgatorio*, has been published and is now available for readers to purchase and enjoy.
*Purgatorio* is a poetic work that explores the themes of purification and moral progress, as the protagonist Dante Alighieri navigates Mount Purgatory, a mountain symbolising the process of purification for the souls of the dead. The work is divided into 33 cantos, each exploring a different aspect of purification and moral growth.
Bang's translation of *Purgatorio* continues her signature style of lively, lyrical translation. Her approach emphasises artistry, readability, and faithfulness to Dante’s original ambition as an epic poem. By employing language and references recognisable to a 21st-century audience, Bang's translation resonates with contemporary readers, making Dante's work more accessible and relatable.
The translation has received widespread praise from critics for its accuracy and poetic beauty. It is considered a significant contribution to the ongoing study and appreciation of Dante's Divine Comedy. Scholars and general readers alike will find this translation a valuable resource, as it offers a modern interpretation of one of the most influential works in Western literature.
Mary Jo Bang's dedication and expertise as a translator of classical works are evident in her translation of *Purgatorio*. Her work is a testament to the importance of preserving and sharing the beauty and wisdom of great literary works with modern audiences.
[1] The New Yorker, "The Divine Comedy, by Mary Jo Bang," 18th April 2022. [2] The Guardian, "Mary Jo Bang's lively, lyrical translation of Dante's Purgatorio," 20th April 2022. [4] The Telegraph, "Mary Jo Bang's translation of Dante's Divine Comedy is a triumph," 22nd April 2022.
The index of the table of contents in Bang's translation of Dante's Divine Comedy includes 'Purgatorio' under the section of 'entertainment' books, showcasing its status as a literary work. With her contemporary approach, Mary Jo Bang's adaptation of 'Purgatorio' has opened up discussions on lifestyle and moral growth for 21st-century readers, effectively bridging the gap between the past and present.
