The Divine Comedy is an epic poem written by Dante Alighieri in the early 14th century. The poem begins with Dante lost in a dark forest, representing his spiritual confusion and sinfulness. Dante is guided by the spirit of the Roman poet Virgil through the circles of Hell, where he encounters sinners suffering various punishments for their earthly sins. Dante's journey through Hell culminates in his confrontation with Satan, frozen in a lake of ice at the center of the earth. Finally, in Paradiso, Dante is guided by the love of his life, Beatrice, through the celestial spheres of Heaven, where he encounters saints and angels and experiences the Beatific Vision, the ultimate union with God. The Divine Comedy is widely considered to be one of the greatest works of literature in Western civilization. It is known for its rich imagery, intricate symbolism, and powerful theological and philosophical themes.