Dante includes the speech of Ulysses, first and foremost, to cement the connection between or two heroes. By including the character in the story, as well as so intimately associating Dante with Odysseus through subtle references, Dante (the author) creates a multilayered narrative rife with the symbolism that comes with reference to the Odyssey. In addition, the abrupt change of Ulysses story with him dying serves to increase the suspense and fear building up in the reader - after all, the author has worked so much to connect Dante with Ulysses, and it must be disturbing to hear that Ulysses died in this version of his story.