What is law of symbolic retribution in Inferno?

In Dante's "Inferno", the law of symbolic retribution is the principle that sinners in hell are punished in a manner that symbolically reflects their crimes. Each circle of hell is dedicated to a specific type of sin, and the punishments are designed to be fitting and appropriate for the sins committed.

For example:

- In the circle of gluttony, the gluttons are forced to lie in a swamp of filthy sludge.

- In the circle of wrath and rage, the wrathful are immersed in the fiery waters of the river Phlegethon.

- In the circle of heresy, heretics are trapped in tombs that are engulfed in flames.

This system of symbolic retribution reflects Dante's belief that justice should not only be served but should also be seen to be served. By making the punishments for sin so graphic and closely tied to the sins themselves, Dante reinforces the moral lessons of his work and underscores the consequences of wicked actions.