The workshop host, Carolyn Beaumont, said the story, which is a guided tour through the nine levels of Hell, had generated a lot of interest.

“People are reacting to the ideas,” she said.

“I never thought there would be such strong interest in this topic.”

The story is set at Easter of 1300. Aligieri guides his favourite Roman poet, Virgil, through Hell.

Audiences are introduced to each of the mortal sins, as prescribed by the Church, that will bring eternal damnation.

The workshop will discuss the text itself and other works inspired by the text, including paintings by William Blake and music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

“There is a lot of satire and irony in the story,” said Ms Beaumont.

“We will have a lively discussion.”

Ms Beaumont said her interest in the story stemmed from a thesis she is composing about the influence of Dante on English poet Geoffrey Chaucer.

The Dante’s Inferno workshop will take place at the Fettler’s Shed, Yarranga Street, Robertson, tomorrow, November 21, at 12.30pm, finishing at approximately 4pm.

Cost $44 for adults and $38.50 for concessions, including a set of notes and afternoon tea.

Phone 0417 477 887 for bookings and more information.