As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This log (also called a character map) allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. When reading a story, small attributes and details frequently become important as the plot progresses. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Physical Traits: Thirty-five years old, exiled from Florence, a politician, poet, and learned in the law.
Character Traits: Finds himself confused about the path his life has taken, needs guidance, still in love with Beatrice, calls out for Human Reason to guide him until he can find Divine Love.
Quote: “Midway in our life’s journey, I went astray from the straight road and woke to find myself alone in a dark wood.”
Other characters included in this map: Virgil, Beatrice, Lucifer, Charon, Ulysses, Farinata delgi Uberti
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Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
Boost engagement by having students work together to create a shared character map. This approach helps students learn from one another and recognize different perspectives on key traits and motivations.
Divide your class into small groups and assign each group a major character from Inferno. Encourage students to become 'experts' on their character by researching and discussing their traits and significance.
Have each group gather physical traits, character motivations, and a notable quote for their assigned character. Prompt them to use both the text and classroom resources for accuracy.
Ask groups to illustrate their character on poster paper or using digital tools. Encourage creativity through visuals, backgrounds, and colors that reflect the character’s personality and role.
After presentations, bring the class together to discuss how the characters connect and influence each other in Inferno. Highlight relationships and themes to deepen understanding.
A character map for Inferno is a graphic organizer that helps students track important details about each character as they read. It makes it easier to recall traits, relationships, and quotes, supporting deeper understanding and engagement with the text.
To create a character map for Dante's Inferno, have students list major characters, select images or symbols for each, and fill in sections for physical traits, character traits, and key quotes. This can be done individually or in pairs using graphic organizer templates.
Main characters to include are Dante, Virgil, Beatrice, Lucifer, Charon, Ulysses, and Farinata degli Uberti. These figures play significant roles and enrich students’ understanding of the story.
Use visuals, color coding, and student choice in character representation. Encourage students to select background scenes and poses that match character traits, and to include memorable quotes. This fosters creativity and helps students connect with the text.
Character mapping helps students keep track of complex relationships and subtle details in Dante's Inferno, supporting comprehension and critical thinking as they navigate the story’s intricate plot and symbolism.