Question

Both Dante, in the opening verses of Inferno, and Boccaccio, in his Introduction to the Decameron, apologize for how they begin their works because each author _____. believes his tale is intended to comfort and solace readers is compelled to recount terrible and frightening events wants to alarm readers with historical information needs to develop a frame for his narrative

Answer 1

The correct answer is B.

Each is compelled to recount terrible and frightening events. Boccaccio will discuss life during the Plague, and Dante will discuss a journey through Hell.

Answer 2

Answer: is compelled to recount terrible and frightening events.

Both Dante and Boccaccio have chosen to discuss frightening, difficult events that they believe will cause sorrow to the reader. However, neither one of them feels they have a choice in the matter. They feel it is their responsibility to inform readers of these events. Boccaccio discusses the plague that has killed a huge percentage of the population of Europe. Dante, on the other hand, discusses his journey through Hell, Purgatory and Paradise, and describes the people and punishments he finds there.