Vices are the main focus of purgatory rather than sin. Pride specifically is the first vice theme in purgatory. Nature is also a common theme that we see throughout the comedy. We see that nature plays a major role in purgatory since nature can be described as a reflection of God and His beauty. Thus, purgatory includes imagery of Mary, skies, stars and other majestic scenery/symbolism. This relates to pride as well because in purgatory, one must cleanse themselves of this vice by showing humility and meekness, the antonym of vice.

Compared to the Inferno, where pride also known as ego, is what caused Lucifer, one of the most high angels to fall to the lowest position, is significant. In purgatory however, the greater the pride in life the greater the weight of stone to be carried. This is a burden that is caused from their own vice to be lifted when the opposite occurs. When one thinks less of themselves than more which is an interesting contrast.

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