Close reading will characterize every meeting of the seminar, if sometimes less, sometimes more. Attendance, therefore, is mandatory. Dante's writing is difficult, difficult for me as well, even after 30 years, and I cannot assume that you can find your way alone. The writing assignment for the seminar consists in three five-page essays. Your final grade will be determined, then, by your performance in seminar meetings and your writing in these three essays.
Plagiarism is a crime.
Attendance is mandatory. In my courses, it means that class is a communal experience that depends upon the participation of everyone, including me and you. Post-facto arrangements are repugnant to me. Any reasonable request, made in advance and in a proper manner, will be accommodated if at all possible.