“The Prideful–Oderisi,” created by Gustave Doré, is an illustration belonging to the Romanticism art movement. This artwork is a part of the series “The Divine Comedy.”
The artwork portrays a compelling scene from Dante Alighieri’s “The Divine Comedy,” specifically from the purgatorial segment. It predominantly features individuals burdened by large stones, bent over under the weight in a manner that symbolizes their earthly pride and subsequent penance. The figures’ muscular forms and the intense detailing of their strained postures vividly capture their toil and suffering. Central to the scene are two robed figures, presumably Dante and Virgil, who observe these suffering souls. The backdrop is composed of other somber figures, with one noteworthy, more relaxed figure seated upon clouds. The meticulous and intricate line work characteristic of Doré illustrates the profound and sorrowful atmosphere, providing a dramatic visual representation of the allegorical journey through purgatory.
