Mythological
Almeone
Almeone is a mythological figure mentioned by Beatrice in Paradiso as an emblematic example of an action performed to avoid a greater harm, according to the theory of the lesser evil.
Profile
In Paradiso, during the discourse with Beatrice, the figure of Almeone is recalled as an example of one who, to escape a worse evil, performs an action contrary to his own liking. Beatrice explicitly cites Almeone in relation to the principle according to which sometimes, to avoid a greater danger, one does what one would not wish to do, resorting to the scholastic theory of the lesser evil set out in the notes to the canto. The mention falls within the context of the theological explanation offered by Beatrice on vows and the will of the blessed souls.
In the text
Linked verses
2 verses| Cantica | Canto | Verso | Testo | Open verse |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purgatory | Canto XII | 50 | come Almeon a sua madre fé caro | Open verse |
| Paradise | Canto IV | 103 | come Almeone, che, di ciò pregato | Open verse |