Purgatorio

Noting the setting sun, Dante compares the time in Purgatory to the time in other places around the world. An angel appears on the other side of the flames, singing “Beati mundo corde” (Blessed are the pure in heart) (284) and urging Dante’s group to proceed. Dante stares into the flames, imagining the human bodies he has seen burn. Virgil instructs him not to be afraid, but Dante remains “stiff and obstinate” (285). Virgil tells him that fire is all that stands between him and Beatrice, so Dante’s obstinacy begins to soften.

Virgil takes the lead and asks Statius to “take up the rear” (285). To strengthen Dante’s resolve, Virgil says that he may already see Beatrice’s eyes. An angel’s voice guides them, singing, “Venite, benedicti Patris mei” (Come, ye blessed of my father) (285). Overcome, Dante cannot look up. The angel urges them to hurry before the sun goes down.

Steep steps cut a path through the rock wall. After the sun sets, the trio stops to rest. As goatherds and shepherds guard their flocks, Statius and Virgil watch over Dante.