Dante Alighieri was an Italian poet, writer, and philosopher, born in 1265 in Florence. He is best known for his epic poem, the Divine Comedy, which is considered one of the greatest works of world literature. The poem is divided into three parts: Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso, and it explores themes of morality, redemption, and the human experience. Dante's work has had a profound influence on literature, art, and theology. His vivid depictions of the afterlife and the journey of the soul have inspired countless artists and writers. He is often referred to as the "father of the Italian language" for his use of the Tuscan dialect, which became the basis for modern Italian.