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At Metro Halloween you'll find everything from shopping links to costume ideas, ghoulish poetry, bloodthirsty recipes and spine-chilling short stories. After all, isn't that what the spooky season is all about? Note: metrohalloween.com gets commission for purchases made through links in this post.
"Inferno," is Dante Alighieri's 14th-century poem, The Divine Comedy. It's a elaborate journey of Dante's decent into Hell, guided by the roman poet, Virgil. In the poem, Hell is described as 9 circles located within the bowls of the Earth.
As Virgil guides Dante through Hell they must must descend deeper into the Earth. Each circle represent an increase in evilness, culminating at the center, where Satan resides. All sinners are condemned for eternity and dropped into a Hellish circle that best fits their punishment.
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
In "Dante's Inferno," the first circle of Hell is limbo, it's a place reserved for the unbaptized, and virtuous pagans. Although not sinful, they did not accept Christ as their savior. As a result, these guiltless soles are damned for eternity and denied into Heaven.
Despite being Hell, Limbo is not a bad place to live. It has rolling green fields and an awesome castle. Inside the walls resides eruditely men of antiquity including Virgil himself, as well as Homer, Euclid, Hippocrates, Plato, Aristotle, and many other History figures. In the poem, Dante gets to meet (and perhaps even parties) with these men of high status.
Dante's Suggestions: In Limbo, you might find the souls who lived virtuous lives but did not receive baptism. For this concept, consider dressing as an angel or a figure of innocence. A flowy white dress, adorned with ethereal wings, can capture this essence perfectly. Add a touch of gold for a divine look. Accessorize with gentle makeup, like shimmery highlights, to give that otherworldly vibe. This costume creates a beautiful contrast to the otherwise dark themes of my work.
For those looking to depict the darker side of Limbo, consider a shadowy character. A costume made entirely of blacks and deep greys can convey the sense of longing and despair felt by the souls in Limbo. Use face makeup to create a ghostly visage, and add tattered fabrics for a haunting look. This idea embraces the duality of Limbo - a place of peace yet overshadowed by the absence of eternal happiness in paradise.
Another costume concept could involve creating a figure representing one of the famous souls found in Limbo, like Homer, Socrates, or Julius Caesar. Research the attire typical for these historical figures and create a modern take with a costume. You might wear a toga-style outfit, a laurel crown, or even carry props associated with their status, like a quill for Homer. This choice pays homage to the great minds who inspire us while also making a unique statement at any Halloween gathering.
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
The second circle of Hell is for individual consumed with lust. Dante condemns people who lack proper moral judgment and succumb to their carnal desires. He writes, "The lustful our truly the first ones to be punished in Hell."
In this Hellish circle these poor souls are blown back and forth by a strong wind without rest. In the poem the wind is a metaphor - the power of lust can blow a person about aimlessly. As Virgil guides him through the first circle he hooks-up with Cleopatra, Helen of Troy and many others who lived a lustful life on Earth.
Dante's Suggestions: For a dramatic and artistic interpretation, you could embody the tormented souls of the second circle, who are swept up in a violent wind representing their uncontrollable desires. A costume that features gusty, swirling fabrics in shades of red and dark gray can give life to this theme. Create a tattered look by strategically cutting and layering materials or opting for a flowing cape. Add makeup with dark eyeliner and smoky eyes to embody the despair and lust that characterize these souls.
Integrating mythological figures associated with love and lust can provide an innovative angle. Consider dressing as Venus or Cupid, but with a darker twist that reflects the consequences of lust portrayed in Dante's work. Incorporate elements like dark wings, thorns, or chains to echo the idea that forbidden love often comes with a price. A simple toga or flowing dress adorned with these darker accessories could blend classical mythology with dark interpretations.
When choosing a costume inspired by my second circle of lust, remember to balance creativity with respect for the source material. While it's certainly important to evoke the themes of desire and tragedy, also ensure your costume is mindful of the deeper meanings behind my narrative.
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
A forbidding creature by the name of Cerberus guards the Gluttons. Virgil obtains safe passage past "Cerberus" by feeding its multiple mouths with mud.
The Gluttons are truly damned, they are sightless and forced to lie in stinky muddy water for the rest of eternity. The gluttons were guilty of overindulgence in food and drink. The mud symbolizes their cold selfish empty lives.
Dante's Suggestions: Start with an oversized outfit that emphasizes excess and indulgence. Think about wearing a baggy tunic or sack-like garment that mimics the idea of excess. You can opt for dark, muted colors like browns and greens to represent the sludge of the circle. Layering can add to the effect, so consider adding a second layer to resemble a bloated figure.
Incorporate accessories that symbolize overindulgence. You can creatively attach plastic food items-like slices of pizza, burgers, or towering cakes-around the waist or across the shoulders, giving the impression of a person who is eternally trapped in a feast gone wrong. For a more tactile approach, consider wearing a large waistband that mimics a giant belt of food.
To enhance the eerie vibe of your gluttonous character, focus on face and body makeup. Use earth tones to create a grimy effect on your skin, suggesting the filth of the gluttons in this third circle. Adding dramatic elements such as prosthetics can help depict an exaggerated, bloated visage, making it appear as though the character has overindulged to a grotesque extent. Don't forget to apply makeup around your eyes to give a tired, hungry look-think dark circles coupled with a glazed appearance.
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
There are two types of people condemned in this Hellish realm, hoarders and wasters. They had lived a life of material greed and are punished by moving bags of money up and down a hill for eternity.
Dante tries to strike up a conversation with some of the men on the hill, but Virgil tells him not to bother, indicating that they've lost their individuality and will not respond. He also mentions that many clergymen, popes and cardinals' dwell in this horrific circle.
Dante's Suggestions: To embody the essence of greed, consider dressing as a wealthy merchant or aristocrat. Think opulent fabrics, such as velvet or silk, in dark, rich colors like deep green or burgundy. You could wear a long coat with ornate detailing, a top hat or crown, and accessorize with gold jewelry - think rings, chains, and perhaps a cane adorned with a gold handle. For extra flair, add faux treasure, like overflowing bags of gold coins to showcase your character's insatiable wealth.
Another idea is to dress as a miserly hoarder caught in an eternal struggle to cling to their possessions. This costume can be a little more creative and quirky. Layer mismatched, ragged clothing to create the illusion of someone clinging onto items for dear life, almost lost in their own clutter. Use props like empty wallets or bags overflowing with crumpled bills and receipts. Make-up can add to the effect: consider dark circles under the eyes and a slightly disheveled look to represent the worry of losing their wealth.
For a more abstract take on greed, think about personifying the concept itself. You could wear a green costume (the color associated with greed) and adorn yourself with symbols of wealth-think dollar signs, coins, or even faux money printed on fabric. A mask or face paint can give your character a more sinister twist, emphasizing the darker side of greed. Accessorize with oversized jewelry and a faux fur stole to portray someone whose desire for riches has blinded them.
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
On the swampy surface waters of the river Styx, millions of infuriated souls engage in a never-ending battle amongst themselves. While immersed below in the cold murky water you'll find the damned of the damned, they find no joy in God, man or the universe and slowly descend into the black void of oblivion.
Dante's Suggestions: One of the most iconic representations of anger is the Wrathful and Sullen battling it out in the muddy waters of the fifth circle. To embody this theme, consider crafting a costume that features a dark, tattered robe that mimics the appearance of those sinners plunged into conflict. Accessorize with fake bruises or angry makeup to evoke the chaotic energy of wrath. A pair of toy weapons (like swords or baseball bats) can enhance the look, symbolizing the violent battles between the wrathful souls.
Taking inspiration from the river that flows through this circle, you might opt for a more ethereal interpretation. Think flowing fabrics in shades of dark green or murky brown, mimicking the mysterious waters of the Styx. Use face paint to create wild, swirling patterns that mimic the chaotic waters of the river. Incorporate accessories, like tattered netting or fake seaweed, to give an otherworldly feel. A flowing, dramatic cape can add movement to the costume, allowing you to embody the very essence of this tumultuous river.
Red is synonymous with anger, making it an essential color for any costume inspired by this theme. Consider a bold, all-red outfit that stands out in any Halloween gathering. Base your look on a classic red dress or suit, then add layers of distressed fabrics, chains, or even faux flames to emphasize the raw power of anger. Makeup can play a significant role here; think bold red lipstick, intense eyeliner, and even face tattoos that mimic the chaotic emotions of wrath.
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
The Heretics occupy the sixth circle of Hell, all doomed and trapped inside hot flaming tombs with no escape. Most Epicureans find themselves in hell for their unconventional ideology and by saying, "Eat, drink and be merry, and oh yea, the soul dies with the body." I bet they regret saying that now.
Virgil indicates that the last three circles of Hell is reserved for the most wicked. They pause a few seconds before making the steep descent into foul-smelling seventh circle.
Dante's Suggestions: Embrace an authentic look by creating a classic Heretic ensemble. Start with a tattered, earth-toned robe to mimic the attire of the damned. A hood adds a sinister touch, providing an air of mystery. Don't forget to add chains around your wrists and ankles, symbolizing the eternal punishment suffered by your lost soul. For makeup, a ghostly pale face with dark circles around the eyes can enhance the overall haunting appearance. Complete the look with a prop book, perhaps a Bible or an ancient text, to represent the heresy and knowledge that led to your downfall.
Transform yourself into a torturous representation of the fiery tombs that encase the Heretics. Start with a base layer of red and orange clothing or fabric, representing the flames. Use black fabric or mesh to create a smoky effect around your body. Attach flickering LED tea lights or flame-shaped accessories for a disturbing yet captivating touch. A headpiece adorned with fake fire and glowing elements can symbolize the eternal blaze, making you a living embodiment of the Sixth Circle.
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
The seventh circle houses the violent and is divided into three rings, entry is guarded by Minotaur.
• Outer ring: This ring houses the violent against people and property. Sinners are forced to float in a river of boiling blood and fire, not too fun.
• Middle ring: In this ring are suicides and profligates. Suicide is considered violence against self, therefor a sin. These souls are transformed into thorny bushes and trees.
• Inner ring: Here are the violent against God (blasphemers) and nature. They must spend eternity walking on flaming dessert with scorching fiery flakes falling from the sky.
The last two circles of Hell can only be reached by descending a vast cliff. Dante and Virgil hitch a ride on a massive, winged monster and descend into the most horrific and darkest part of Hell.
Dante's Suggestions: The Seventh Circle is divided into three rounds and punishes different forms of violence. Each round represents a distinct theme, providing ample inspiration for various costume ideas.
• Violence Against Neighbors: This section holds those who have committed acts of violence against their fellow man. A costume could feature a battle-ready look complete with faux weapons such as swords or spears. Think of gladiatorial inspiration or even a medieval knight. For a creative twist, consider adding blood spatter effects-using fabric paint or fake blood-to emphasize the brutal nature of this circle. Masks portraying fierce expressions can also elevate the intensity of your look.
• Violence Against Self: This round punishes suicides and those who have harmed themselves. A more somber take might involve a ghostly look-pale makeup with dark circles under the eyes to create a forlorn appearance. Tattered clothing can reflect a life of despair, while faux chains or ropes might symbolize the struggles faced by the souls condemned to wander. Incorporating elements like a broken mirror or symbolic items like flower wreaths can enhance the poignancy of this interpretation.
• Violence Against God: The final part of the Seventh Circle addresses blasphemers and those who have committed acts against the divine. Costumes could draw from various religious iconography, such as using dark robes adorned with symbols of chaos or rebellion. Adding angelic or demonic wings, depending on your interpretation, heightens the costume's narrative. Make-up can play a significant role here; think dark brows against a luminescent base for that celestial yet ominous vibe.
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
In the eighth circle of Hell reside the fraudulent, prostitutes, pimps, flatters, thieves, corrupt politicians, and many more. These condemned souls are tossed into the chasm of Hell without pity - forced to live in human excrement with heads turned backwards, stuffed into fowl smelling holes and boiled in hot tar. Not a nice place to live or even visit.
Dante's Suggestions: One of the most prominent figures in Malebolge is the impersonator, who wears the guise of another to deceive. For this costume, you can use a combination of theatrical makeup and costuming to embody a famous figure, like a celebrity or historical person, while exaggerating their features for comedic effect. Think oversized sunglasses, an exaggerated wig, and distinct clothing that brings the impersonation to life.
Another icon of the eighth circle is the con artist, who manipulates others for personal gain. Channel this spirit by creating a suave, 'too-good-to-be-true' appearance. A sharp suit, perhaps with a flashy tie and polished shoes, can create the perfect deceptive persona. Include props, such as fake money or a 'limited-time offer' sign, to hint at the character's duplicitous nature. To add an air of mystery, a mask with a charming smile can emphasize the idea that not everything is as it appears.
Another whimsical take is to dress as a fortune teller who manipulates fortunes for their gain. Flowing, funky clothing with jungle prints, oversized jewelry, and a fortune-telling booth could bring the character to life. Carry tarot cards, a crystal ball, or even mystery boxes filled with misleading fortunes. This costume not only reflects the concept of deception but also adds an air of mystique to your Halloween night.
In the last circle resides the sinners against family, traitors against country, betrayers against God. Instead of being condemned to a fiery pit, these sinners our encased in an icy tomb, frozen and dammed for all time.
Finally Virgil and Dante make their way to the center of Hell, and find the ultimate betrayer against God, Satan - He's a horrific beast with a grostesque face. He stands weeping, waist deep in ice, beating his massive wings.
Dante's Suggestions: Arguably the most iconic character from the Ninth Circle is Lucifer, the devil himself. Channel his malevolent energy with a striking costume that features dark, flowing robes, a magnificent red cape, and a pair of impressive horns. Complete the look with a skull cane or a fiery prop to really embody the embodiment of sin. Use dark makeup or a mask to intensify the effect and consider adding glowing red contacts for a truly sinister gaze. With this costume, you'll be the embodiment of temptation at any Halloween gathering!
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Dante's Inferno Costume Ideas
Dante's Inferno Costume Ideas
"Inferno," is Dante Alighieri's 14th-century poem, The Divine Comedy. It's a elaborate journey of Dante's decent into Hell, guided by the roman poet, Virgil. In the poem, Hell is described as 9 circles located within the bowls of the Earth.
As Virgil guides Dante through Hell they must must descend deeper into the Earth. Each circle represent an increase in evilness, culminating at the center, where Satan resides. All sinners are condemned for eternity and dropped into a Hellish circle that best fits their punishment.
First Circle - Limbo
First Circle - Limbo
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
In "Dante's Inferno," the first circle of Hell is limbo, it's a place reserved for the unbaptized, and virtuous pagans. Although not sinful, they did not accept Christ as their savior. As a result, these guiltless soles are damned for eternity and denied into Heaven.
Despite being Hell, Limbo is not a bad place to live. It has rolling green fields and an awesome castle. Inside the walls resides eruditely men of antiquity including Virgil himself, as well as Homer, Euclid, Hippocrates, Plato, Aristotle, and many other History figures. In the poem, Dante gets to meet (and perhaps even parties) with these men of high status.
Dante's Suggestions: In Limbo, you might find the souls who lived virtuous lives but did not receive baptism. For this concept, consider dressing as an angel or a figure of innocence. A flowy white dress, adorned with ethereal wings, can capture this essence perfectly. Add a touch of gold for a divine look. Accessorize with gentle makeup, like shimmery highlights, to give that otherworldly vibe. This costume creates a beautiful contrast to the otherwise dark themes of my work.
For those looking to depict the darker side of Limbo, consider a shadowy character. A costume made entirely of blacks and deep greys can convey the sense of longing and despair felt by the souls in Limbo. Use face makeup to create a ghostly visage, and add tattered fabrics for a haunting look. This idea embraces the duality of Limbo - a place of peace yet overshadowed by the absence of eternal happiness in paradise.
Another costume concept could involve creating a figure representing one of the famous souls found in Limbo, like Homer, Socrates, or Julius Caesar. Research the attire typical for these historical figures and create a modern take with a costume. You might wear a toga-style outfit, a laurel crown, or even carry props associated with their status, like a quill for Homer. This choice pays homage to the great minds who inspire us while also making a unique statement at any Halloween gathering.
Second Circle - Lust
Second Circle - Lust
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
The second circle of Hell is for individual consumed with lust. Dante condemns people who lack proper moral judgment and succumb to their carnal desires. He writes, "The lustful our truly the first ones to be punished in Hell."
In this Hellish circle these poor souls are blown back and forth by a strong wind without rest. In the poem the wind is a metaphor - the power of lust can blow a person about aimlessly. As Virgil guides him through the first circle he hooks-up with Cleopatra, Helen of Troy and many others who lived a lustful life on Earth.
Dante's Suggestions: For a dramatic and artistic interpretation, you could embody the tormented souls of the second circle, who are swept up in a violent wind representing their uncontrollable desires. A costume that features gusty, swirling fabrics in shades of red and dark gray can give life to this theme. Create a tattered look by strategically cutting and layering materials or opting for a flowing cape. Add makeup with dark eyeliner and smoky eyes to embody the despair and lust that characterize these souls.
Integrating mythological figures associated with love and lust can provide an innovative angle. Consider dressing as Venus or Cupid, but with a darker twist that reflects the consequences of lust portrayed in Dante's work. Incorporate elements like dark wings, thorns, or chains to echo the idea that forbidden love often comes with a price. A simple toga or flowing dress adorned with these darker accessories could blend classical mythology with dark interpretations.
When choosing a costume inspired by my second circle of lust, remember to balance creativity with respect for the source material. While it's certainly important to evoke the themes of desire and tragedy, also ensure your costume is mindful of the deeper meanings behind my narrative.
Third Circle - Gluttony
Third Circle - Gluttony
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
A forbidding creature by the name of Cerberus guards the Gluttons. Virgil obtains safe passage past "Cerberus" by feeding its multiple mouths with mud.
The Gluttons are truly damned, they are sightless and forced to lie in stinky muddy water for the rest of eternity. The gluttons were guilty of overindulgence in food and drink. The mud symbolizes their cold selfish empty lives.
Dante's Suggestions: Start with an oversized outfit that emphasizes excess and indulgence. Think about wearing a baggy tunic or sack-like garment that mimics the idea of excess. You can opt for dark, muted colors like browns and greens to represent the sludge of the circle. Layering can add to the effect, so consider adding a second layer to resemble a bloated figure.
Incorporate accessories that symbolize overindulgence. You can creatively attach plastic food items-like slices of pizza, burgers, or towering cakes-around the waist or across the shoulders, giving the impression of a person who is eternally trapped in a feast gone wrong. For a more tactile approach, consider wearing a large waistband that mimics a giant belt of food.
To enhance the eerie vibe of your gluttonous character, focus on face and body makeup. Use earth tones to create a grimy effect on your skin, suggesting the filth of the gluttons in this third circle. Adding dramatic elements such as prosthetics can help depict an exaggerated, bloated visage, making it appear as though the character has overindulged to a grotesque extent. Don't forget to apply makeup around your eyes to give a tired, hungry look-think dark circles coupled with a glazed appearance.
Fourth Circle - Greed
Fourth Circle - Greed
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
There are two types of people condemned in this Hellish realm, hoarders and wasters. They had lived a life of material greed and are punished by moving bags of money up and down a hill for eternity.
Dante tries to strike up a conversation with some of the men on the hill, but Virgil tells him not to bother, indicating that they've lost their individuality and will not respond. He also mentions that many clergymen, popes and cardinals' dwell in this horrific circle.
Dante's Suggestions: To embody the essence of greed, consider dressing as a wealthy merchant or aristocrat. Think opulent fabrics, such as velvet or silk, in dark, rich colors like deep green or burgundy. You could wear a long coat with ornate detailing, a top hat or crown, and accessorize with gold jewelry - think rings, chains, and perhaps a cane adorned with a gold handle. For extra flair, add faux treasure, like overflowing bags of gold coins to showcase your character's insatiable wealth.
Another idea is to dress as a miserly hoarder caught in an eternal struggle to cling to their possessions. This costume can be a little more creative and quirky. Layer mismatched, ragged clothing to create the illusion of someone clinging onto items for dear life, almost lost in their own clutter. Use props like empty wallets or bags overflowing with crumpled bills and receipts. Make-up can add to the effect: consider dark circles under the eyes and a slightly disheveled look to represent the worry of losing their wealth.
For a more abstract take on greed, think about personifying the concept itself. You could wear a green costume (the color associated with greed) and adorn yourself with symbols of wealth-think dollar signs, coins, or even faux money printed on fabric. A mask or face paint can give your character a more sinister twist, emphasizing the darker side of greed. Accessorize with oversized jewelry and a faux fur stole to portray someone whose desire for riches has blinded them.
Fifth Circle - Anger
Fifth Circle - Anger
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
On the swampy surface waters of the river Styx, millions of infuriated souls engage in a never-ending battle amongst themselves. While immersed below in the cold murky water you'll find the damned of the damned, they find no joy in God, man or the universe and slowly descend into the black void of oblivion.
Dante's Suggestions: One of the most iconic representations of anger is the Wrathful and Sullen battling it out in the muddy waters of the fifth circle. To embody this theme, consider crafting a costume that features a dark, tattered robe that mimics the appearance of those sinners plunged into conflict. Accessorize with fake bruises or angry makeup to evoke the chaotic energy of wrath. A pair of toy weapons (like swords or baseball bats) can enhance the look, symbolizing the violent battles between the wrathful souls.
Taking inspiration from the river that flows through this circle, you might opt for a more ethereal interpretation. Think flowing fabrics in shades of dark green or murky brown, mimicking the mysterious waters of the Styx. Use face paint to create wild, swirling patterns that mimic the chaotic waters of the river. Incorporate accessories, like tattered netting or fake seaweed, to give an otherworldly feel. A flowing, dramatic cape can add movement to the costume, allowing you to embody the very essence of this tumultuous river.
Red is synonymous with anger, making it an essential color for any costume inspired by this theme. Consider a bold, all-red outfit that stands out in any Halloween gathering. Base your look on a classic red dress or suit, then add layers of distressed fabrics, chains, or even faux flames to emphasize the raw power of anger. Makeup can play a significant role here; think bold red lipstick, intense eyeliner, and even face tattoos that mimic the chaotic emotions of wrath.
Six Circle - Heretics
Six Circle - Heretics
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
The Heretics occupy the sixth circle of Hell, all doomed and trapped inside hot flaming tombs with no escape. Most Epicureans find themselves in hell for their unconventional ideology and by saying, "Eat, drink and be merry, and oh yea, the soul dies with the body." I bet they regret saying that now.
Virgil indicates that the last three circles of Hell is reserved for the most wicked. They pause a few seconds before making the steep descent into foul-smelling seventh circle.
Dante's Suggestions: Embrace an authentic look by creating a classic Heretic ensemble. Start with a tattered, earth-toned robe to mimic the attire of the damned. A hood adds a sinister touch, providing an air of mystery. Don't forget to add chains around your wrists and ankles, symbolizing the eternal punishment suffered by your lost soul. For makeup, a ghostly pale face with dark circles around the eyes can enhance the overall haunting appearance. Complete the look with a prop book, perhaps a Bible or an ancient text, to represent the heresy and knowledge that led to your downfall.
Transform yourself into a torturous representation of the fiery tombs that encase the Heretics. Start with a base layer of red and orange clothing or fabric, representing the flames. Use black fabric or mesh to create a smoky effect around your body. Attach flickering LED tea lights or flame-shaped accessories for a disturbing yet captivating touch. A headpiece adorned with fake fire and glowing elements can symbolize the eternal blaze, making you a living embodiment of the Sixth Circle.
Seventh Circle - Violence
Seventh Circle - Violence
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
The seventh circle houses the violent and is divided into three rings, entry is guarded by Minotaur.
• Outer ring: This ring houses the violent against people and property. Sinners are forced to float in a river of boiling blood and fire, not too fun.
• Middle ring: In this ring are suicides and profligates. Suicide is considered violence against self, therefor a sin. These souls are transformed into thorny bushes and trees.
• Inner ring: Here are the violent against God (blasphemers) and nature. They must spend eternity walking on flaming dessert with scorching fiery flakes falling from the sky.
The last two circles of Hell can only be reached by descending a vast cliff. Dante and Virgil hitch a ride on a massive, winged monster and descend into the most horrific and darkest part of Hell.
Dante's Suggestions: The Seventh Circle is divided into three rounds and punishes different forms of violence. Each round represents a distinct theme, providing ample inspiration for various costume ideas.
• Violence Against Neighbors: This section holds those who have committed acts of violence against their fellow man. A costume could feature a battle-ready look complete with faux weapons such as swords or spears. Think of gladiatorial inspiration or even a medieval knight. For a creative twist, consider adding blood spatter effects-using fabric paint or fake blood-to emphasize the brutal nature of this circle. Masks portraying fierce expressions can also elevate the intensity of your look.
• Violence Against Self: This round punishes suicides and those who have harmed themselves. A more somber take might involve a ghostly look-pale makeup with dark circles under the eyes to create a forlorn appearance. Tattered clothing can reflect a life of despair, while faux chains or ropes might symbolize the struggles faced by the souls condemned to wander. Incorporating elements like a broken mirror or symbolic items like flower wreaths can enhance the poignancy of this interpretation.
• Violence Against God: The final part of the Seventh Circle addresses blasphemers and those who have committed acts against the divine. Costumes could draw from various religious iconography, such as using dark robes adorned with symbols of chaos or rebellion. Adding angelic or demonic wings, depending on your interpretation, heightens the costume's narrative. Make-up can play a significant role here; think dark brows against a luminescent base for that celestial yet ominous vibe.
Eight Circle - Fraud
Eight Circle - Fraud
Shop for Dante's Inferno Costumes @ Halloween Costumes
In the eighth circle of Hell reside the fraudulent, prostitutes, pimps, flatters, thieves, corrupt politicians, and many more. These condemned souls are tossed into the chasm of Hell without pity - forced to live in human excrement with heads turned backwards, stuffed into fowl smelling holes and boiled in hot tar. Not a nice place to live or even visit.
Dante's Suggestions: One of the most prominent figures in Malebolge is the impersonator, who wears the guise of another to deceive. For this costume, you can use a combination of theatrical makeup and costuming to embody a famous figure, like a celebrity or historical person, while exaggerating their features for comedic effect. Think oversized sunglasses, an exaggerated wig, and distinct clothing that brings the impersonation to life.
Another icon of the eighth circle is the con artist, who manipulates others for personal gain. Channel this spirit by creating a suave, 'too-good-to-be-true' appearance. A sharp suit, perhaps with a flashy tie and polished shoes, can create the perfect deceptive persona. Include props, such as fake money or a 'limited-time offer' sign, to hint at the character's duplicitous nature. To add an air of mystery, a mask with a charming smile can emphasize the idea that not everything is as it appears.
Another whimsical take is to dress as a fortune teller who manipulates fortunes for their gain. Flowing, funky clothing with jungle prints, oversized jewelry, and a fortune-telling booth could bring the character to life. Carry tarot cards, a crystal ball, or even mystery boxes filled with misleading fortunes. This costume not only reflects the concept of deception but also adds an air of mystique to your Halloween night.
Ninth Circle - Treachery
Ninth Circle - Treachery
In the last circle resides the sinners against family, traitors against country, betrayers against God. Instead of being condemned to a fiery pit, these sinners our encased in an icy tomb, frozen and dammed for all time.
Finally Virgil and Dante make their way to the center of Hell, and find the ultimate betrayer against God, Satan - He's a horrific beast with a grostesque face. He stands weeping, waist deep in ice, beating his massive wings.
Dante's Suggestions: Arguably the most iconic character from the Ninth Circle is Lucifer, the devil himself. Channel his malevolent energy with a striking costume that features dark, flowing robes, a magnificent red cape, and a pair of impressive horns. Complete the look with a skull cane or a fiery prop to really embody the embodiment of sin. Use dark makeup or a mask to intensify the effect and consider adding glowing red contacts for a truly sinister gaze. With this costume, you'll be the embodiment of temptation at any Halloween gathering!
Back to Top