Annotation: The Inferno, Page 81 line 31 to Page 82 line 63
             This prominent passage is an exploration of Dante's reactions to Fillipo Argenti, his attempts to purge himself of wrath, and the progress of his soul towards perfection. Fillipo Argenti is greeted rather bitterly by Dante who outwardly denounces him. Dante's criticism of Argenti is an example of his attempts to rid himself of evil, which is recognized, praised, and even aided by his guide, Virgil. Dante's early reactions toward the damned and their punishments are filled with astonishment and compassion and are just at this passage beginning to transform to more contemptuous and scornful. This confrontation is a pivotal point in Dante's journey, as he seems to rid himself of pity and sympathy towards the sinful, and becomes more accepting of the divine justice.
             Dante immediately recognizes Argenti and reacts with hostility to the mere sight of him. After Dante recognizes Argenti, Dante offers him a token of his thoughts: "May you weep and wail to all eternity, for I know you, Hell-dog, filthy as you are." This reaction is Dante's most belligerent reaction in the poem up to this passage, and underlines his rejection of the sinner. Dante adds to this rejection by praising and thanking God after witnessing the mangling of Argenti's body to pieces by other sinners. "... so mangled by a swarm of muddy wraiths that to this day I praise and thank God for it." Dante's berating of Argenti is vivid and sound and is an essential step in his struggle towards perfection.
             This step is an accomplishment for Dante, which is aided and embraced by Virgil. Virgil adds to Dante's criticism of Argenti by insulting Argenti even more. "Down! Down! With the other dogs." Virgil also expresses his support for Dante very outwardly. "Indignant spirit, I kiss you as you frown. Blessed be she who bore you." The last s...