Get a thrilling summary of “Inferno” by Dan Brown, as we follow the adventure of Robert Langdon in unraveling the mystery of Dante’s Inferno.
Introduction
Dan Brown‘s Inferno is a thrilling novel that explores the dark world of Dante Alighieri’s “Divine Comedy.” Set in Florence, Italy, the book follows the journey of Robert Langdon, a Harvard professor, as he uncovers a sinister plot to unleash a deadly virus that could wipe out half of the world’s population. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive summary of Inferno, including the plot, characters, themes, and symbols.
Overview of Inferno
Inferno is the fourth book in Dan Brown’s Robert Langdon series, following Angels and Demons, The Da Vinci Code, and The Lost Symbol. The novel was published in 2013 and has sold over six million copies worldwide. The book’s title refers to Dante’s Inferno, the first part of his epic poem “Divine Comedy.”
The novel explores themes of overpopulation, transhumanism, and the balance between privacy and surveillance. Brown uses various symbols throughout the book, including Dante’s Inferno, the Map of Hell, and the Black Death.
Inferno Book Quotes

Inferno Book Summary
The novel begins with Robert Langdon waking up in a hospital in Florence with amnesia. He has no recollection of the last few days and is plagued by terrible headaches. Sienna Brooks, a young doctor, tends to him and helps him escape when they are attacked by a mysterious woman.
As they try to piece together Langdon’s memories, they discover that he was invited to a presentation by Bertrand Zobrist, a billionaire geneticist who believes that overpopulation is a threat to humanity. Zobrist has created a deadly virus that will wipe out half of the world’s population and has hidden it somewhere in the city.
Langdon and Brooks race against time to find the virus before it is released. They are aided by Elizabeth Sinskey, the head of the World Health Organization, and are pursued by a shadowy organization called the Consortium.
Inferno Book Characters
- Robert Langdon: Robert Langdon is a Harvard professor of symbology and religious iconology. He is the protagonist of the novel and is portrayed as intelligent, brave, and resourceful.
- Sienna Brooks: Sienna Brooks is a young doctor who helps Langdon after he wakes up in the hospital. She is intelligent, resourceful, and has a troubled past.
- Bertrand Zobrist: Bertrand Zobrist is a billionaire geneticist who believes that overpopulation is a threat to humanity. He has created a deadly virus that he believes will solve the problem and has hidden it somewhere in Florence.
- Elizabeth Sinskey: Elizabeth Sinskey is the head of the World Health Organization and a former lover of Langdon. She helps Langdon and Brooks in their quest to find the virus.
Themes
- Overpopulation: Overpopulation is a central theme of the novel. Zobrist believes that the earth is overpopulated and that a deadly virus is the only way to reduce the population to a sustainable level.
- Transhumanism: Transhumanism is the belief that humans can evolve beyond their current physical and mental limitations with the help of technology. Zobrist believes that his virus will be the key to humanity’s evolution and will create a new, superior race.
- Surveillance and Privacy: The novel explores the balance between surveillance and privacy. The Consortium, a shadowy organization, uses advanced technology to monitor and control people’s lives. Langdon and his allies fight to preserve privacy and freedom.
- Redemption: Redemption is a recurring theme in the novel. Many of the characters are haunted by their past mistakes and seek forgiveness and redemption.
Symbols
- Dante’s Inferno: Dante’s Inferno is a central symbol in the novel. Langdon and his allies follow Dante’s journey through hell, using it as a guide to find Zobrist’s virus.
- The Map of Hell: The Map of Hell is a painting by Botticelli that depicts Dante’s Inferno. Langdon and his allies use the painting to decipher clues and find the virus.
- The Black Death: The Black Death, a deadly pandemic that killed millions in the 14th century, is a recurring symbol in the novel. Zobrist believes that a new pandemic is necessary to control overpopulation.
- The Consortium: The Consortium is a shadowy organization that represents the dark side of technology and power. They use surveillance and manipulation to control people’s lives.
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Inferno Book Review

Inferno by Dan Brown received mixed reviews from critics upon its release. While some praised the book’s suspense, pacing, and use of historical symbols, others criticized its predictable plot, weak characters, and overuse of exposition.
Despite the mixed reception, Inferno was a commercial success, selling over six million copies worldwide and topping bestseller lists in multiple countries. Overall, while Inferno may not be Brown’s best work, it is still an entertaining and suspenseful thriller that will appeal to fans of the Robert Langdon series and anyone who enjoys a good page-turner.
Price of Inferno In India
The price of “Inferno” by Dan Brown in India may vary depending on the seller and format of the book. As of April 2023, the paperback version of the book is priced around ₹330-410 on marketplace such as Amazon India.
Price of Inferno In U.S
The price of “Inferno” by Dan Brown in the United States may vary depending on the seller and format of the book. As of March 2023, the paperback version of the book is priced around $ 6.92 on various online marketplace such as Amazon United States.
Audiobook of Inferno
“Inferno” by Dan Brown is available in audiobook format. The audiobook version of the novel can be purchased on various platforms such as Audible, Amazon, and iTunes. As of March 2023, the audiobook is priced around $13.48 on these platforms. Some of these platforms also offer a free trial period for new users, during which the audiobook can be downloaded for free.
Link of Audiobook : Inferno
Conclusion
Inferno by Dan Brown is a thrilling novel that explores the dark world of Dante’s Inferno. The book is full of suspense, action, and mystery, and the characters are complex and engaging. Brown uses various themes and symbols to explore the balance between science and ethics, privacy and surveillance, and redemption and forgiveness. Overall, Inferno is a must-read for fans of the Robert Langdon series and anyone who loves a good thriller.
FAQs
Is Inferno a standalone novel or part of a series?
Inferno is the fourth book in Dan Brown’s Robert Langdon series, following Angels and Demons, The Da Vinci Code, and The Lost Symbol
What is the main theme of Inferno?
The main theme of Inferno is overpopulation and the balance between science and ethics
What is the Map of Hell?
The Map of Hell is a painting by Botticelli that depicts Dante’s journey through hell. It is a central symbol in the novel
Who is the main antagonist in Inferno?
Bertrand Zobrist, a billionaire geneticist, is the main antagonist in the novel
Is Inferno a good book?
Yes, Inferno is a well-written, engaging, and thrilling book that is definitely worth reading