Dante Alighieri

An Italian poet of the 13th century, Dante Alighieri is one of the most significant figures in world literature. Born in Florence around 1265 to a minor noble family, he received a fine education in classical literature, philosophy, and theology. Dante was actively involved in Florentine politics, defending the interests of the Guelphs, a party supporting papal authority. However, as a result of internal political intrigues, he was exiled. This event marked a turning point in the poet's life, as it was during his exile that he created his greatest work, the Divine Comedy.