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Canto 34 Summary and Analysis
New Characters
Dis (Satan): Ruler of the pit
Judas Iscariot: Resident of Region iv of Dis; betrayer of Jesus
Brutus: Later a Shakespearean character; opposed to the Divine and secular world; a resident of Dis
Cassius: Defeated by Anthony and took his own life; later a Shakespearean character; a resident of Dis
Summary
Canto XXXIV begins with the statement that “The banners of the King of Hell go forth.” Virgil asks Dante if it will be possible for Dante to recognize Dis (Satan) if they see him. The two pass over Judecca.
Dante sees Satan in Region iv, Dis. Satan is devouring Judas Iscariot. Cassius and Brutus are also residents of this lowest region.
The two poets climb down—and then up—the body of Satan. At the end of the journey they can see the stars once more.
Discussion and Analysis
The two poets pass over the region of Judecca, the last ring of the circle; this region is that in which the traitors to their Lords reside. The traitors here are totally covered with ice.
Symbolism is used in the...
(The entire section is 366 words.)