What does Dante identify as a key reason for the sinner’s fall?

Dante identifies the loss of moral direction as a key reason for the sinner’s fall. This theme is central to "Inferno," where individuals find themselves in Hell largely due to choices that stem from a fundamental moral failing. Dante illustrates how sin can lead individuals away from their true purpose and alignment with divine will, highlighting the importance of maintaining one's moral compass. Many characters he encounters in the various circles of Hell show how their inability to adhere to virtue and moral truth has led to their eternal punishment. Each sinner's story underscores the idea that straying from a clear moral direction can result in devastating consequences, making loss of moral direction a pivotal theme in the narrative.

In contrast, while other choices may resonate with certain characters or their narratives, they do not encapsulate the broader thematic concerns Dante emphasizes regarding original sin, free will, and moral accountability.