• Convito , VII 3:⁠— “Between the angelic nature, which is an intellectual thing, and the human soul there is no step, but they are both almost continuous in the order of gradation.⁠ ⁠… Thus we are to suppose and firmly to believe, that a man may be so noble, and of such lofty condition, that he shall be almost an angel.” ↩
• The Angels, and the Heavens, and the human soul, being immediately inspired by God, are immutable and indestructible. But the elements and the souls of brutes and plants are controlled by the stars, and are mutable and perishable. ↩
• See Purgatorio XVI 85:⁠— “Forth from the hand of Him, who fondles it Before it is, like to a little girl Weeping and laughing in her childish sport, Issues the simple soul, that nothing knows, Save that, proceeding from a joyous Maker, Gladly it turns to that which gives it pleasure.” And also Purgatorio XXV 70:⁠— “The primal Motor turns to it well pleased At so great art of nature, and inspires A spirit new with virtue all replete.” ↩