What type of literary work is Dante's Inferno considered?

Dante's Inferno is classified as an epic poem, which is a significant genre in literature characterized by its grand themes, elevated style, and often a focus on heroic figures or profound moral questions. This work, part of Dante Alighieri’s larger narrative poem "The Divine Comedy," uses allegory and rich imagery to explore the complex nature of sin and redemption.

As an epic, Inferno is structured in a way that follows a journey, specifically the protagonist, Dante, traveling through the circles of Hell. This journey serves not only as a narrative adventure but also as a vehicle for deep philosophical and theological commentary. The poem's stylistic features, such as its use of terza rima (a rhyme scheme), its vivid characterizations, and its exploration of universal themes concerning morality and the human condition, further reinforce its classification as an epic poem.

While other options like biography, historical narrative, and philosophical essay provide interesting frameworks, they do not capture the poetic and thematic essence inherent in Dante's work, which blends narrative, lyricism, and moral questioning characteristic of epic literature.