The Divine Comedy · Character
Constantine
Roman emperor whose Donation is criticized in the poem.
minor
First appearance: canto xix
Constantine shows up with force in Canto III: Piccarda and Constance. The page is where that presence becomes real.
Mentioned as 'Costanza' (Constance), the mother of Frederick II, who was also a nun torn from her convent.
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In Canto III: Piccarda and Constance: Mentioned as 'Costanza' (Constance), the mother of Frederick II, who was also a nun torn from her convent. Later, in Canto VI: Justinian's Discourse on the Roman Eagle: Mentioned…
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See Constantine in canto xixCharacter Web
20 connectionsA slice of how Constantine sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Other
Character groups
- Sinners and Historical Figures
- Heavenly Guides and Saints
+15 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
In this canto, the dramatic climax occurs when Dante, having been emboldened to ask Virgil to teach him the na…
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Follow the arc while readingIn the story
Constantine appears across 4 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
- Canto III: Piccarda and Constance
- Canto VI: Justinian's Discourse on the Roman Eagle
- Canto XV
- Canto XX: The Righteous Kings and the Mystery of Grace
Chapter companion notes
Spoil-light check-ins for Constantine unlock in the free preview.
See Constantine in canto xix