Italy is filled with some of the world's oldest stories, myths, legends, and literature. It was also home to many great writers and poets. Some of the oldest literary works came from Italy, such as the Aeneid by Virgil. The Divine Comedy by Dante is also a well-known and popular literary work. In fact, Dante himself helped establish a new language medium for literature.
Throughout Italy's history many myths, stories, legends, and poetry have been studied and analyzed . Many great literary works have influenced major leaders as well as society. A myth is an influential, but traditional story that has been passed down from generation to generation or from teller to teller. Some myth’s origins are unknown or forgotten, while others, such as The Aeneid and The Divine Comedy, have origins that may never be forgotten. Myths have created social and powerful meanings and conceptions among many cultures and societies. They have left an imprint with each person. The importance of literature and stories is not only how they embody and explore values, but how each individual interprets it themselves.