Real
Sicily
Sicily is recalled in the Commedia under its ancient names of Cicilia and Trinacria. In the verses it serves as the setting for historical events and is listed among the honored lands of Paradise.
Description
In the Commedia Sicily is evoked with two poetic denominations: Cicilia, of ancient literary usage, and Trinacria, a mythical name derived from the triangular shape of the island with its three promontories. Inferno XII, 108 recalls that Sicily mourned for years under the tyranny of its own governors. Purgatorio III, 116 mentions Sicily alongside Aragon as a land of honor, within the framework of the Swabian dynasty that ruled the Mezzogiorno. Paradiso VIII, 67 designates it as the fair Trinacria, exposed to the fumes of the volcano Etna. The notes to Purgatorio III also clarify the role of Constance, daughter of Roger II of Hauteville and last Norman heir of the Kingdom of Sicily, whose marriage to Henry VI sanctioned the transfer of the island to the Swabian house, paving the way for the succession of Frederick II.
In the text
Linked verses
3 verses| Cantica | Canto | Verso | Testo | Open verse |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inferno | Canto XII | 108 | che fé Cicilia aver dolorosi anni. | Open verse |
| Purgatory | Canto III | 116 | de l’onor di Cicilia e d’Aragona, | Open verse |
| Paradise | Canto VIII | 67 | E la bella Trinacria, che caliga | Open verse |