What do the different circles of Hell symbolize in Dante's Inferno?

The correct choice reflects the core framework of Dante's Inferno, where the different circles of Hell represent distinct categories of sin and the punishments that correspond to them. Each circle addresses a specific type of sin, illustrating the medieval understanding of morality and justice.

For example, those who committed sins of lust are punished in the second circle, while the gluttonous reside in the third circle. This categorization reflects the idea of contrapasso, where the punishment is a direct consequence of the sin committed. This structured approach to Hell underscores Dante's belief in divine justice, where different levels of wrongdoing deserve different forms of retribution.

The other options, while they touch on themes presented in the work, do not accurately capture the primary function of the circles in Dante's narrative. The circles are not primarily focused on the harshness of suffering alone, nor do they serve to represent societal hierarchies or personal beliefs of sinners. Instead, they create a systematic representation of sin and its associated penalties, offering a moral commentary on human actions and their repercussions in the afterlife.