Answer: C. The sinners compulsion to look backward dakly mirrors their strained attempst to see into the future in life
Explanation: The statement that best explains Dante's intended use of symbolism in this passage is <u><em>the sinners compulsion to look backward darkly mirrors their strained attempts to see into the future in life</em></u>. Dante's use of figurative language makes the text more effective and the use of symbolism makes words go beyond their literal meaning. The punishment of the sinners correspond to the sins they commit in life, so those who tried always to look into the future are now forced to look backward.
