3/9/09

"Those bare of head Were clerics, cardinals, popes, who in the passion of avarice has wrought excess." Canto VII line 41

I think this passage is important because it recognizes that figures within the church are capable of Sin. The accusations of Popes seems significant because Popes are supposed to be the holiest people on the earth, and if their capable of sin how are us meager Christians to avoid sinning. I also think that it is a pretty bold statement on Dante's part to even think to accuse members of the church. He does protect himself by refusing to name clergy men by name though. But I still think that the church would have reacted harshly to this criticism. They do not want to be told that they covered themselves with luxuries when they're supposed to be living at the bare minimum level where they can attain happiness only through faith, nothing from the human world.

"where is my son, and why is he not with you?" Canto X line 55

What idiot would want his son to join him in hell. I guess he knows that his son is of another faith, but can't he hope that he'll change is ways after he learns that his fate is within a group pit that is incredibly hot. Yeah this guy isn't selfish. I understand that he wants company in his punishment but why your son. Couldn't he buddy up with some other heretic that has, or had, the same beliefs as he did. I really am just disgusted not by the fate of these men so much as the simple fact that this guy has the audacity to want his son to join him. Isn't it the goal of a parent to give their child a better life than they had. I guess this is the afterlife but still. I wonder if during this time period what was valued higher: following the church, or keeping your fathers honor. Honestly I would follow in my father's footsteps but I don't think he would want me to if he knew that it would lead me to hell.