The Circle of the Lustful: Paolo and Francesca 1827

William Blake created this engraving on copper, depicting a scene from Dante’s Inferno. Here, we see the poet Dante, guided by Virgil, encountering souls trapped in the second circle of Hell, punished for their lustful desires. The contorted figures caught in an eternal whirlwind visually express the torment of their unfulfilled passions. Blake, working in England, was deeply concerned with the social and moral constraints of his time, particularly those imposed by the church and state. His art often challenged these norms, advocating for individual freedom and spiritual expression. Blake believed that institutions, like the Royal Academy, stifled creativity, and he forged his own path, developing unique techniques to realize his visionary ideas. To fully grasp Blake’s interpretation, we can consult his writings, illuminated books, and the historical context of his era. Understanding the social and institutional forces that shaped Blake’s world helps us appreciate his art as a powerful call for liberation.