Commentary Par XVIII 48

Robert Guiscard ('Robert the Astute'), a historical figure (1015-1085), was also celebrated in a Latin poem, Gesta Roberti Wiscardi.  Exactly why Dante wanted him included in his list is not clear, indeed is the subject of a certain scholarly puzzlement.  Further, he violates the chronology established by the inclusion of Godfrey before him.  Dante has previously mentioned him ([Inf XXVIII 13-14]) as having defeated the Saracens in Puglia, and that may have been his single largest qualification in the poet's eyes.