Paradise Lost

Houghton EC65.M6427P.1667aa - Paradise Lost, 1667

Paradise Lost is an epic poem in blank verse by the 17th-century English poet John Milton. It was first published in 1667 in ten books, with a total of over ten thousand lines of verse. A second edition followed in 1674, redivided into twelve books in the manner of Virgil's Aeneid with minor revisions throughout and a note on the versification. The poem concerns the biblical story of the Fall of Man: the temptation of Adam and Eve by the fallen angel Satan and their expulsion from the Garden of Eden. Milton's purpose, stated in Book I, is to "justify the ways of God to men."

Plot Summary

Paradise Lost narrates the story of Adam and Eve's temptation by Satan, their expulsion from Eden, and the story of the fall of Satan himself. The poem opens in Hell, where Satan and his followers have been banished following their rebellion against God. Satan embarks on a mission to Earth to corrupt God's newest creation, mankind. He successfully tempts Eve to eat the forbidden fruit from the Tree of Knowledge, leading to their expulsion from Eden and the introduction of sin and suffering into the world.

Themes

The poem explores themes of disobedience, divine justice, grace, and redemption. It delves into the complexities of free will, the nature of evil, and the human condition. Milton's portrayal of Satan as a complex character has led to a wide range of interpretations, with some viewing him as a tragic hero.

Structure

Milton employs blank verse, unrhymed iambic pentameter, giving the poem a majestic and elevated tone. The structure of Paradise Lost in twelve books mirrors the epic tradition as seen in works like Homer's Iliad and Odyssey, and Virgil's Aeneid.

Influence

Paradise Lost has had a profound impact on literature, influencing a wide range of works in the English literary canon. Its themes and characters have been explored and reinterpreted in numerous literary and artistic works throughout the centuries. Milton's innovative use of language, narrative structure, and exploration of universal themes have cemented Paradise Lost as a cornerstone of English literature.

Legacy

The legacy of Paradise Lost extends beyond literature into music, art, and popular culture, reflecting its enduring relevance. Its influence can be seen in the works of later poets, novelists, and philosophers, who have drawn on its themes and characters to explore the human experience.