Dante ‘sociologo’, 700 anni dopo

The possibility of sociology to dialogue with the work of Dante Alighieri is based on his ability to historicize his characters (well-defined individuals in highly relational contexts) while typifying their psychologies and behaviors. Georg Simmel spoke of a ‘dualism’ in Dante, a suitable category to describe his social and political conception. As to his beliefs the Poet can be considered ‘conservative’ indeed; but he is the first to distinguish the sphere of competence of religion (the Church) from the sphere of competence of politics (the state i.e. the empire). As to the moral values he regrets the good old time of his ancestors, when Florence was smaller and not yet invaded by country people thirsting for wealth and power; but he is the same person who despises the aristocratic pride and shows sensitivity for physical love and gender differences. With the words of Friedrich Engels, Dante emerges as «a colossal figure, at the same time the last poet of Middle Age and the first modern poet». Although historically specified, Dante’s powerful narrative may be a source contributing for a better understanding of relations between individuals, groups and institutions