Divine Justice vs. Human Nature free essay sample

Takes a look at how Dante and Boccaccio make opposing arguments on the issue of divine justice versus human nature. This paper demonstrates Dantes and Boccaccios opposing views concerning whether the importance of Gods divine justice outweighs the innate human qualities present in all peoples. Using the example of how each portrays members of the clergy in their works, Dantes preference of divine justice emerges, as does Boccaccios preference of human nature. Dante and Boccaccio disagree on the issue of divine justice versus human nature. In The Divine Comedy: Inferno, Dante employs Fortune to prove the importance of divine justice. As a creation of God, Fortune operates strictly within the will of God, enhancing Dantes depiction of Gods omnipotence. Dante also illustrates the importance of Gods divine justice through the various people the pilgrim meets in the circles of the Inferno, specifically members of the clergy. We will write a custom essay sample on Divine Justice vs. Human Nature or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page In sentencing these men to hell, Dante demonstrates the fair and impartial manner in which God judges all people. He points out that God does not favor the clergymen because of their church titles, but judges all people according to the same moral and religious standards. Boccaccio, on the other hand, utilizes the same constructions in The Decameron, but uses them to contradict the previously accepted philosophies set forth in the Inferno. Boccaccio presents Fortune as Gods enemy, a power that provides earth with more than it needs.