Dante Alighieri (c. 1265 – 1321) was an Italian poet, writer, and philosopher, best known for The Divine Comedy, one of the greatest literary works of the Middle Ages. His writings helped shape the Italian language and influenced Western literature and philosophy.
Born in Florence, he came from a noble but not wealthy family. He was betrothed to Gemma Donati but idealized Beatrice Portinari, who inspired much of his poetry. His early works, including La Vita Nuova, reflected themes of courtly love. He studied Latin, philosophy, and theology, drawing inspiration from Virgil and Aristotle.
Active in politics, he supported the White Guelphs, opposing papal influence. In 1302, he was exiled from Florence, never to return. During exile, he wrote The Divine Comedy, depicting a journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. His use of terza rima and the vernacular rather than Latin established a precedent for Italian literature.
He spent his later years in Ravenna, where he died in 1321. His legacy shaped Renaissance thought, and he remains a symbol of Italian literary excellence. His tomb in Ravenna remains a site of admiration, while Florence continues to honor his memory.