Dante's Inferno (Illustrated by Dore): Modern English Version

The book came in before expected and in new condition. The format is sufficiently large to permit the illustrations by Dore to show well. (I have one of the first editions of the Longfellow translation.) However, the "Modern English" interpretive translation by Neff looses all of the character of the philosophy and theology of the time (the active context) Dante incorporated into his writing and thus the impact of much of the Inferno. Most notable for me was the loss of the concept of God and the Inferno being "beyond time" (introduced about 200 years earlier into the Roman Church) carved above the gates of Hell. In that context, there can be no Hope, if one is beyond sequential time. JH

I used this version of "Everyman" in teaching my HS English class. We started with the first few scenes of a more "traditional" version to give the students a feel for the "standard" version, then switched over to this adaptation for further reading and scene performance. While in some instances it is a bit too contemporary in forcing humor (Friendship passionately corrects Everyman when he refers to his purse - "It's a man-bag, I told you!"), the basic content and form is faithfully adhered to, and is much easier and more enjoyable for students to read and perform. Purists will likely find fault, but any work that can get high school students involved and excited about a medieval morality play is fine by me!

I am 44 years old and have recently plunged into college; English 102 (Literature) has been quite a challenge, especially reading plays.Based on my English 102 final assignment, I purchased the Kindle version of this play. I do not plan to use it as a substitute to the original 15th century text, but purchased this product for a quick read before delving into the harder content.This modern English version is brilliant. The author has tailored the modern version text to use clear and concise rime, which makes this play easily understood and delightful.Definitely a great purchase for the price and the content!Thank You!

Don’t buy from these idiots Brand new book arrived folded in half. Really thanks morons.

I thought I was getting the “Divine comedy” however this is a good start and the illustrations, yet not the best, help the reader appreciate the text.

The Dore illustrations included are of a very low quality.They're about the quality you can find with a google image search. They're all pretty poorly cropped to fit in the book. It really doesn't do justice to such incredible artwork.

Everyman is a wonderful allegorical tale that is still relevant today. This version retains the meaning of the original with a meter that keeps the story flowing. The doctrine is strongly Catholic since it was written in the 13th century; However, the theme of the story (that every man must give account before a God and that material goods, fellowship, strength, beauty, discretion, and the five senses will abandon each of us in the end) is still accurate.

A little hard to read.

I bought this as a gift for my friend, the artiwork and layout of the book are both beautifully done. This makes an amazing gift.

Very good. Thank you.

Great illustrations, maybe not for everyone but I like it.

lovely book ,it's hard to believe that this book is second hand, it's in near perfect condition. Tha nk you.

nice concept and a lovely play to read. it makes you feel good in the end and I would read again.