What type of literary work is The Divine Comedy?

The Divine Comedy is classified as an epic poem, which is exemplified through its use of structured verse, intricate allegory, and grand themes concerning the afterlife, divine justice, and human experience. Written by Dante Alighieri in the early 14th century, this work is noteworthy for its ambitious narrative that explores heaven, hell, and purgatory, serving not only as a spiritual journey but also as a commentary on the socio-political issues of Dante's time. Epic poems are characterized by their length, serious subject matter, and elevated language, all of which are present in The Divine Comedy as it employs a unique terza rima rhyme scheme and rich symbolism throughout its stanzas. This makes it a pivotal work in the canon of literature, shedding light on both personal and universal themes through poetic form.