How does Dante feel when he first enters Hell?

When Dante first enters Hell, he experiences a profound sense of fear and confusion. This initial emotional response is pivotal in setting the tone for his journey through the afterlife. As he steps into the dark, foreboding landscape, he is confronted by the harrowing sights and sounds of the damned souls suffering in various forms of torment. This horrifying environment causes him to feel lost and overwhelmed, reflecting the chaos and despair of Hell itself.

Dante's fear is compounded by his realization that he has strayed off the "straight path" of righteousness, which symbolizes moral failure. His confusion arises from the surreal nature of the journey, as he navigates through the terrors of Hell without fully understanding his own purpose or the consequences of his actions. This emotional state is essential for readers to grasp the weight of Dante's spiritual quest and the transformation he ultimately undergoes as he confronts his fears and seeks redemption throughout the narrative.