Cantos 12-19

It seems to me that Dante's relationship with his guide, Virgil, has grown increasingly more affectionate and loving, and there are some interesting interactions between the two in these Cantos. Dante refers to Virgil as his "Guide," "Lord," and "Master," and recognizes that Virgil has overcome "every dread [they] have encountered" (114), increasing his regard of, and trust in, Virgil as his guide. Virgil is his "stay…comfort…and courage in other perils" (136), and when Dante displays fear, as he does with the beast in Canto 17, Virgil gathers and embraces him. Dante also observes the ways Virgil berates the souls as they go deeper into Hell, and begins to emulate him. When Dante condemns the sinner in Canto 19 he notes that it pleases his Guide, and the two then share an affectionate moment as Virgil "approached, and with both arms lifted [him]…and gathered [him] against his breast," carrying him up an arch where he then "tenderly set down the heavy burden he had been pleased to carry up that ledge" (153). I think the relationship that Dante shares with Virgil could be a representation of the growing strength of his own reason, and his growing trust in it. He is becoming more devoted to the improvement and use of his reason, and it is in turn rewarding him. Any other ideas on the loving relationship between Dante and his guide displayed in these Cantos?