Introduction
When analyzing the placement of former U.S. President Donald Trump in the The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri, one can infer several possible scenarios based on his actions and character traits. In Chris Alexander's response, the 8th Circle of Hell, Malebolge, is mentioned as a potential location. However, this article proposes placing Trump among the sowers of discord, a description that aligns with his behavior and actions.
The Sowers of Discord: Malebolge's Tenth Circle
In the 8th Circle of Hell, the Sowers of Discord are found in the Tenth Circle. Specifically, they reside in the canal where a variety of sowers of quarrels and discord among families are punished. One notable character in this group is the troubadour Bertran de Born, who wrote poems inciting war and rebellions. This circle fits Trump's behavior, as his actions have often divided groups and rioted the political landscape.
A Trumpian Trousseau of Discord
Trump's approach to politics and business has been marked by his ability to sow discord. In his business ventures, especially in Atlantic City, he pitted managers against each other, creating a toxic environment that mirrored the violence and discord in Hell. His political campaigns and behaviors have also been geared towards spreading divisiveness, causing rifts within the Republican Party and beyond.
Trump's Modus Operandi
The Potential for Treachery
Should Trump's behavior shift, he might end up in the ninth circle of Hell, where traitors and cheaters are punished. This could be seen in his treatment of individuals like Roy Cohn. Cohn, a mentor and protege, was a deeply closeted homosexual who helped Trump navigate the world of public life. When Cohn died of AIDS, Trump publicly distanced himself, which could be seen as a betrayal of trust. This scenario could also be compared to Count Ugolino, who was sentenced to die of starvation with his children, and Bishop Ruggiero, who attempted to save him but was unsuccessful.
Conclusion
Dante's The Divine Comedy offers a rich framework for understanding and analyzing the moral and ethical implications of human behaviors, including the complex character of Donald Trump. Whether Trump is found among the sowers of discord or in the circle of traitors, his actions and character traits can be effectively placed within the Hell described by Dante.