Write an essay about How I spent a week in London
Sample solution
Dante Alighieri played a critical role in the literature world through his poem Divine Comedy that was written in the 14th century. The poem contains Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso. The Inferno is a description of the nine circles of torment that are found on the earth. It depicts the realms of the people that have gone against the spiritual values and who, instead, have chosen bestial appetite, violence, or fraud and malice. The nine circles of hell are limbo, lust, gluttony, greed and wrath. Others are heresy, violence, fraud, and treachery. The purpose of this paper is to examine the Dante’s Inferno in the perspective of its portrayal of God’s image and the justification of hell.
In this epic poem, God is portrayed as a super being guilty of multiple weaknesses including being egotistic, unjust, and hypocritical. Dante, in this poem, depicts God as being more human than divine by challenging God’s omnipotence. Additionally, the manner in which Dante describes Hell is in full contradiction to the morals of God as written in the Bible. When god arranges Hell to flatter Himself, He commits egotism, a sin that is common among human beings (Cheney, 2016). The weakness is depicted in Limbo and on the Gate of Hell where, for instance, God sends those who do not worship Him to Hell. This implies that failure to worship Him is a sin.
God is also depicted as lacking justice in His actions thus removing the godly image. The injustice is portrayed by the manner in which the sodomites and opportunists are treated. The opportunists are subjected to banner chasing in their lives after death followed by being stung by insects and maggots. They are known to having done neither good nor bad during their lifetimes and, therefore, justice could have demanded that they be granted a neutral punishment having lived a neutral life. The sodomites are also punished unfairly by God when Brunetto Lattini is condemned to hell despite being a good leader (Babor, T. F., McGovern, T., & Robaina, K. (2017). While he commited sodomy, God chooses to ignore all the other good deeds that Brunetto did.
Finally, God is also portrayed as being hypocritical in His actions, a sin that further diminishes His godliness and makes Him more human. A case in point is when God condemns the sin of egotism and goes ahead to commit it repeatedly. Proverbs 29:23 states that “arrogance will bring your downfall, but if you are humble, you will be respected.” When Slattery condemns Dante’s human state as being weak, doubtful, and limited, he is proving God’s hypocrisy because He is also human (Verdicchio, 2015). The actions of God in Hell as portrayed by Dante are inconsistent with the Biblical literature. Both Dante and God are prone to making mistakes, something common among human beings thus making God more human.
To wrap it up, Dante portrays God is more human since He commits the same sins that humans commit: egotism, hypocrisy, and injustice. Hell is justified as being a destination for victims of the mistakes committed by God. The Hell is presented as being a totally different place as compared to what is written about it in the Bible. As a result, reading through the text gives an image of God who is prone to the very mistakes common to humans thus ripping Him off His lofty status of divine and, instead, making Him a mere human. Whether or not Dante did it intentionally is subject to debate but one thing is clear in the poem: the misconstrued notion of God is revealed to future generations.
References
Babor, T. F., McGovern, T., & Robaina, K. (2017). Dante’s inferno: Seven deadly sins in scientific publishing and how to avoid them. Addiction Science: A Guide for the Perplexed, 267.
Cheney, L. D. G. (2016). Illustrations for Dante’s Inferno: A Comparative Study of Sandro Botticelli, Giovanni Stradano, and Federico Zuccaro. Cultural and Religious Studies, 4(8), 487.
Verdicchio, M. (2015). Irony and Desire in Dante’s” Inferno” 27. Italica, 285-297.
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
A Week in London: A Memoir of Exploration and Discovery
London, the vibrant and culturally rich capital of the United Kingdom, holds a special place in the hearts of travelers worldwide. As I reflect on my unforgettable week spent in this bustling metropolis, I am filled with a sense of awe and wonder at the myriad experiences and adventures that unfolded before me. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, from traditional English pubs to eclectic street markets, my time in London was a tapestry of exploration and discovery.
Day 1: Arrival and Immersion
Upon my arrival in London, I was greeted by the bustling streets, the melodious chimes of Big Ben, and the grandeur of Buckingham Palace. The city’s energy was infectious, and I eagerly immersed myself in its rich tapestry of history and culture. Strolling through Hyde Park, I marveled at the serenity of Kensington Gardens and the beauty of its blooming flowers. The day culminated in a visit to the British Museum, where ancient artifacts and treasures from around the world transported me through time.
Day 2: Iconic Landmarks and Timeless Beauty
My second day in London was dedicated to exploring its iconic landmarks. From the majestic Tower Bridge to the historic Tower of London, each sight told a story of centuries past. A visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral left me breathless with its stunning architecture and spiritual aura. As the sun set over the Thames River, I savored a traditional English meal at a quaint pub, savoring the flavors and ambiance of London’s culinary scene.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Artistic Delights
Venturing into London’s vibrant neighborhoods, I discovered a world of artistic delights and cultural treasures. The Tate Modern beckoned with its contemporary masterpieces, while the West End dazzled with its world-class theater productions. In Covent Garden, street performers entertained crowds with their talents, adding a touch of whimsy to my London experience. The day ended with a visit to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, where the bard’s timeless works came to life on stage.
Day 4: Hidden Gems and Local Flavors
Exploring London off the beaten path, I stumbled upon hidden gems and local flavors that captured the essence of the city. Borough Market delighted my senses with its array of gourmet treats and artisanal crafts, while Camden Market offered a glimpse into London’s eclectic and bohemian side. A ride on the London Eye provided a bird’s eye view of the city’s skyline, revealing its beauty in all its splendor.
Day 5: Historical Journeys and Royal Residences
Delving into London’s royal history, I embarked on a journey through time at Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace. The opulence of these royal residences and the stories they held left me in awe of England’s regal past. A visit to Kensington Palace offered insights into the lives of British monarchs, while a leisurely walk along the Thames River provided moments of reflection and tranquility amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
Day 6: Nature Retreats and Urban Escapes
Seeking solace in London’s green spaces, I ventured to Kew Gardens and Richmond Park, where nature’s beauty unfolded in all its glory. The tranquility of these botanical marvels offered a welcome respite from the urban chaos, allowing me to connect with the natural world in the heart of the city. As evening fell, I found myself savoring a picnic in Regent’s Park, basking in the simplicity and beauty of life’s simple pleasures.
Day 7: Farewell to London
As my week in London drew to a close, I bid farewell to this enchanting city with a mix of nostalgia and gratitude. From its historic landmarks to its vibrant neighborhoods, from its cultural institutions to its culinary delights, London had captured my heart and soul in a way that only a truly remarkable destination can. As I boarded my flight home, I carried with me memories that would last a lifetime and a deep appreciation for the wonders of travel and exploration.
In conclusion, my week in London was a journey of discovery, adventure, and cultural immersion that left an indelible mark on my soul. From its bustling streets to its serene parks, from its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems, London revealed itself as a city of contrasts and complexities, each layer waiting to be uncovered and explored. As I reflect on my time in this magnificent city, I am reminded of the transformative power of travel and the endless possibilities that await those willing to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery.
Whether you are drawn to London’s rich history, vibrant culture, or diverse culinary scene, one thing is certain – a week in this dynamic city is an experience like no other, a tapestry of memories waiting to be woven into the fabric of your life’s story. So pack your bags, book your ticket, and set off on an adventure that will forever change the way you see the world – for London is calling, and its wonders are waiting to be discovered.
