What is a key theme present in Dante's Inferno?

A key theme present in Dante's Inferno is the idea of justice and the consequences of sin. Throughout the journey in the circles of Hell, Dante vividly illustrates the concept of divine retribution, where the punishments inflicted on the souls reflect the nature and severity of their sins during their earthly lives. This poetic justice is a fundamental aspect of the narrative, emphasizing that every action has consequences that align with moral principles.

The structure of Hell itself, with its various circles tailored to different sins, reinforces the notion that justice is not arbitrary but rather deeply connected to the moral framework within which Dante operates. This theme serves to inspire readers to reflect on their own lives and the moral implications of their actions, making it a central focus of the work.

While exploration of human nature and themes related to knowledge and the celebration of life intersect with Dante's work, they do not encapsulate the core theme of divine justice and the moral consequences of sin as directly as the concept captured by the correct answer.