What literary technique does Dante use to provide insights into his contemporary society?

Dante employs the integration of historical events and figures as a significant literary technique in "The Inferno." This approach not only grounds the narrative in the reality of his time but also serves to critique and reflect on the moral and political issues faced by his contemporaries. By including prominent figures from history, mythology, and his own era, Dante creates a rich tapestry that connects the personal journey of the protagonist with broader societal themes.

This historical integration allows readers to recognize the individuals Dante portrays, providing a deeper understanding of the consequences of their actions and the state of society during Dante’s life. As he traverses the circles of Hell, the encounters with these figures reveal Dante’s perspectives on justice, power, and morality. Through their inclusion, he effectively invites readers to reflect on the lessons from history and consider the implications of those themes in their own lives.

The other literary techniques listed, such as allegory or direct commentary, while they can also be found in Dante's work, do not uniquely capture the way he intertwines historical context with personal and collective morality as effectively as the integration of historical events and figures. Similarly, metaphors for emotional states are present but do not encapsulate the broader societal insights as vividly as the historical references do.