Dante, Purgatory and Paradise
The Gate of Purgatory
Dante approaches three differently coloured steps and a diamond-like threshold where an angel holds a shining sword. The movement towards the gate requires humility before its keeper. The angel draws a gold key and a silver key, explaining that one is more precious while the other requires skill. He has received them from Peter and is instructed to favour opening when the supplicant asks.
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In the sources
Principal account
LiteraryDante approaches three differently coloured steps and a diamond-like threshold where an angel holds a shining sword. The movement towards the gate requires humility before its keeper.
Further detail
LiteraryThe angel draws a gold key and a silver key, explaining that one is more precious while the other requires skill. He has received them from Peter and is instructed to favour opening when the supplicant asks.
Context & interpretation
This entry follows Cary’s translation of Dante’s poem. The entry concerns the gate and its symbols in Purgatory IX; it is not a practical ritual instruction for reaching an otherworld. Its people and places are presented within the literary vision, with the historical or theological subject distinguished from the role Dante assigns it.
Original passages
Source 1
Purgatory and Paradise: The Vision of Dante
three steps beneathOpen this page in the book
Passage & edition details
Location recorded at citation review: Dante, Purgatory and Paradise; active reader leaf 61
Exact passage checked against active scan text and original-leaf mapping; scan line breaks normalised.
- Edition
- IMJ-0119-E001
- Reader page
- IMJ-0119-E001-P0061
- Original scan leaf
- 62
- Recorded leaf number
- 62
- Current Reader position
- 58
- Reader verification
- Source-preserving update confirmed
Source 2
Purgatory and Paradise: The Vision of Dante
Two keys, of metal twainOpen this page in the book
Passage & edition details
Location recorded at citation review: Dante, Purgatory and Paradise; active reader leaf 62
Exact passage checked against active scan text and original-leaf mapping; scan line breaks normalised.
- Edition
- IMJ-0119-E001
- Reader page
- IMJ-0119-E001-P0062
- Original scan leaf
- 63
- Recorded leaf number
- 63
- Current Reader position
- 59
- Reader verification
- Source-preserving update confirmed
Continue exploring
Literary & Visionary Settings ↗
Dante’s Earthly Paradise
The fragrant forest at the mountain’s summit where memory is renewed.
Same subject and traditionDante’s Mountain of Purgatory
The mountain where purified desire makes ascent possible.
Same subject and traditionEunoe
The companion stream that restores the memory of good.
Same subject and traditionLethe in Dante’s Garden
The stream that removes remembrance of offence.