What is the primary consequence for the souls in Circle 1?

In Circle 1 of Dante's Inferno, also known as Limbo, the primary consequence for the souls is indeed their existence without hope of seeing God. This circle is designated for virtuous pagans and unbaptized infants, who, although they did not lead sinful lives, are denied the presence of God due to the lack of baptism and faith. The despair in Limbo is not one of physical torment or active punishment like in other circles, but their inability to experience God's grace creates a profound sense of longing and lack of hope.

Understanding the situation of these souls illustrates an important theological concept in Dante's work: while they may not suffer in the same way as those in the deeper circles of Hell, their eternal separation from God represents the greatest tragedy in Dante's moral universe. The souls in Circle 1 exhibit a kind of melancholic awareness of their fate; they possess reason and the ability to reflect on their condition, but ultimately they cannot attain salvation or the Beatific Vision. This condition underscores the significance of faith and divine grace in Dante’s interpretation of the afterlife.