[232] “The Wheel which, when the sun sets, brings forth for us on the horizon the jewelled sky.”
[233] Sulla Data del Viaggio Dantesco p. 90, note.
[234] Comparing Conv. II. ii. 12, xiii. 49-52, and IV. i. 60-62, we learn that in August 1293 (vide infra, p. 314), Dante first became acquainted with the Lady Philosophy; that in the early part of 1296 he was completely under her spell; and that some time afterwards she for a while estranged herself from him.
“Scattered and faded now is all the foliage Which had burst forth, beneath the power of Aries, To beautify the world, the grass is withered.” Canz. xv. 40-42.
“This everlasting spring Nocturnal Aries never can despoil.” Par. xxviii. 116-117.
“Thereafterward a light among them brightened So, that if Cancer one such crystal had Winter would have a month of one sole day.” Par. xxv. 100-102. (Longfellow).
[238] Ep. ix. 46-49.