2. Purgatorio

Blake Ritson, David Warner, Hattie Morahan and John Hurt star in Stephen Wyatt's dramatisation of Dante's epic poem - the story of one man's extraordinary journey through Hell, Purgatory and Paradise.

In Episode 2: Purgatorio, Dante (Blake Ritson) is led up Mount Purgatory by his guide, the shade of Virgil (David Warner). On their journey, they encounter numerous souls who have embarked on the difficult journey up the mountain - a journey that will eventually lead to their spiritual salvation.

Many years later, the older Dante (John Hurt), still in enforced exile from his beloved Florence, reflects on the episodes from his life that have inspired his great poem.

Dante the Poet .... Blake Ritson
Older Dante .... John Hurt
Virgil .... David Warner
Beatrice .... Hattie Morahan
Guardian 1/ Proud Soul .... Sam Dale
Cato .... Michael Bertenshaw
Casella/ Donati .... Steve Touissaint
Belacqua .... Clive Hayward
Pia of Siena .... Priyanga Burford
Guardian 3 .... David Cann
Sapia .... Carolyn Pickles
Girl .... Cassie Layton

All other parts are played by members of the company

The Divine Comedy is dramatised by Stephen Wyatt

Sound design is by Cal Knightley

Directed by Emma Harding and Marc Beeby

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in April 2014.