Canto 26 of Dantes Paradiso: Dantes Test and Reward

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Canto 26 is designed like a test for Dante, which he successfully completes. At the start of the Canto, he is blinded by the sight of St. John. Dante is concerned about his eyesight, to which St John replies that Dantes eyesight will return. However, then, St John proceeds to ask questions aimed at evaluating Dantes purity of intention and strength of faith. He asks what is the destination of Dantes soul, which is God. The next question is the inspiration for seeking God, which is philosophy. Finally, St. John inquiries about the strength of Dantes love. Dante reaffirms his love for God, which is ultimately rewarded as Beatrice heals his eyesight.

Dantes reward for passing St. Johns test is not limited to the return of eyesight. Dante also sees more clearly: I saw better than I had before (verse 69). It enables him to see and talk with the first man Adam. It is interesting to note that Dante does not speak at all during this conversation. Instead, Adam guesses correctly what Dante wants to ask of him and answers it himself. The questions include the amount of time since the creation, the amount of time spent in the Garden of Eden, the reason for Gods anger at Adam, and the language Adam used after the sin.

It seems that the entire narrative of this Cante is built around the test and the reward for passing the test. It is similar to many Christian values, where the faith in God is constantly tested, and the righteous ones are rewarded, while those who fail the test experience God anger. Adam serves as the juxtaposition to Dante  what would have happened to him if he had not answered St. Johns questions correctly. In a similar way, Adam himself failed Gods test when he intruded and ate the forbidden apple. Dantes ability to see Adam and have his questions answered without having to ask them is Dantes rewards for love and faith in God.

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