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Bernard of Clairvaux was a 12th-century Benedictine monk and contemplative theologian. In the Empyrean, where he is depicted as a kindly, fatherly soul, he takes Beatrice’s place as Dante’s guide. He is especially devoted to the Virgin Mary, to whom he prays on Dante’s behalf before Dante’s vision of God.
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St. Bernard of Clairvaux Character Timeline in Paradiso
The timeline below shows where the character St. Bernard of Clairvaux appears in Paradiso. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Canto 31
The soul at Dante’s side introduces himself as Bernard of Clairvaux, a famous monk and theologian. He encourages Dante to look toward the circle...
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Canto 32
St. Bernard gives Dante a guided tour of the thrones of the Empyrean, pointing out Eve, Beatrice,...
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Then, Bernard shows Dante the souls of children who died before they were old enough to exercise...
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Canto 33
St. Bernard beseeches the Virgin Mary to grant Dante grace to be able to behold God directly,...
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