John Took

Leading Dante expert Professor John Took says the best guide to the life of Italy’s greatest writer is the poet himself.

Took uses the author’s own writings in his new and authoritative biography of Dante’s life. He looks at the often violent circumstances of Dante’s life and says his successive works are a testament to his passionate humanity.

Took is professor emeritus of Dante studies at University College London and author of L’Etterno Piacer: Aesthetic Ideas in Dante

Dante, Lyric Poet and Philosopher: An Introduction to the Minor Works.

This event is part of Italian day at the festival.