After Dante's learning of his future in canto 17, his great-great Grandfather Cacciaguida points out some of the other big Warrior Souls in the big Greek Cross above them, and then blends into the Cross himself with more music.

Dante then sees the silvery Jupiter around him, and slowly a giant Eagle takes shapes above them, as a symbol of Divine Justice and the Empire.

This canto has some of the most beautiful visual poetry in the whole Paradise, when the souls and lights transform in the sparkling sight of a giant Eagle. And the feeling is more powerful than before on the journey - as Dante is getting closer to the highest Heavens. He is still learning, and sees his spiritual knowledge expanding through the intensity of the lights, and the beauty of Beatrice.

Enjoy!

:D