Purgatorio (Bantam Classics)

The second of three books that compose the Divine Comedy, Dante Alighieri's "Purgatorio" is a continuation of his epic Cantos. Having seen Satan with their own eyes, Dante and Virgil once again breathe fresh air as they surface through an opening in a cliff. Their adventure then carries them to the mountain island of Purgatory where Dante hears tales of woe and sees some familiar faces, all the while drawing nearer to his beloved Beatrice.Often overlooked as the middle story, Purgatorio is, in its own rights, a classic. It would be my recommendation, however, to read it in order so as not to confuse yourself and to miss out on any of the important events that occur.What makes this edition so special is the wonderful translation done by Allen Mandelbaum. The notes that are provided make understanding not only the language but the plot and its nuances much easier and consequently much more enjoyable. This is easily the best version on the market today for the casual reader.

Can't wait to start reading this! I ordered another book by Dante (Inferno). My hands are full of books to read.These books were delivered quickly and in excellent shape!

Great book. Love this translation. Also in joy the Italian. Great notes.

I lived in Italy 19 years and can read Italian easily (even Dante). I like to compare the translation to the original, and can say it is not only accurate but brilliant! The art work also communicates the deeper sense of the text.Two years ago I read the Inferno also translated by Mandelbaum and illustrated by Moser, and I look forward to the Paradiso.

Loved the book

I am not a catholic. I do not believe in purgatory, & I'm not sure I believe in hell. I've already paid for my mistakes in this life several lifetimes over. I am not Italian either, so I have to take it on faith that this translation is true to the original manuscript. In case I don't want to, the original is printed alongside it, which is a mark of confidence on someone's part. Anyway, who cannot enjoy magnificence, & an act of supreme imagination? It is fabulous poetry inviting you to a realm of experience impossible to reach otherwise - unless you are dead & Catholic!

Very complex, but rewarding. A classic and a must read for all who love literature.

Not as fun as hell, but the translation is perfect and the Italian on one side and English on the other is really cool.

The worst package delivery by Amazon in recent times.The book is no doubt, a masterpiece second part from Dante.The book had dog-ears and definitely looks second-hand with scribblings all over its first and last pages. Maybe they were inscribed by the package handlers, but the book is all wear and tear now. I wonder how it will become after a couple reads.Unlike how good the book for Inferno by Bantam was, this is poor.

Definitely low quality printing and paper, but this is a mass market paperback and that is to be expected. At least, the binding is ok and it's not falling apart while holding it. Unlike another reviewer, mine was new without any scribbling anywhere. Good enough for the price.

Très bien

fascinating