301
Is the idea of Lucifer as a fallen angel an official part of Christian doctrine or a detail invented by Milton?

It's the real thing. See the Book of Revelation, xii.4, 7-9, and Isaiah, xiv 12-15. Early church writings had fleshed out these biblical accounts by the time Milton began his.

300
I am working on a paper to provide a character analysis of God in PL-patterns of behavior, motivations, reflect on personal issues and how those issues affect other characters or perhaps the outcomes. I've read over the previous questions and it helped, but I still need more specifically if you could help!! Thanks

A real God, if one exists, would by definition be above such aspects as behavior or motivations. He would be the originator of all motivating forces. His "behavior" could not be measured with respect to propriety, since he would set the rules of all conduct. But in any story, the rules of plot structure require the inteplay of these mundane forces. So Milton embroils his God in a power struggle, has him plotting military strategy with his son, and shows him using his power of prophecy to carefully engineer an intricate balance of justice, mercy, and the "loophole" through which man can redeem himself from his fall from grace, all without ever disrupting the endowment of perfect free will in man, the angels, and Satan.

All the outcomes within the story can be traced to what God does or does not allow, since he has it in his power to control everything. Therefore, the most interesting way to approach an analysis of God's character is to figure out why he holds back his power in any given situation, and lets things progress to their natural, chance, or man-made conclusion, whether the result be good or, as is often the case, very, very bad.

299
what is the significence of death in paradise lost ?

Adam and Eve were originally created human but immortal. Death is the penalty God ordains for eating the forbidden fruit. But when they commit the act, in his mercy he postpones it many years, to allow the pair the opportunity to repent and prove themselves worthy of heaven. The Son of God, Messiah, offers to take on man's punishment by becoming himself human at a future time and suffering death by persecution, thereby saving them from death and hell, which would also have effectively aborted the whole human race. [iii.222] Expulsion from Paradise takes the place of instant death.

In their remorse over having sinned, Adam wishes for death, and Eve actually proposes double suicide. [latter part of Book X]

In Book XI, Michael produces visions of future events to teach Adam about death. First Adam witness his firstborn son, Cain, slay his brother, Abel. Then in a harrowing scene within a hospital he is shown the many ways of natural death by disease. He also sees death by war, and the holocaust of the Great Flood. Imagine his reaction to these visions of death for his descendants, knowing his own fall from grace is the cause.

Death is also personified as a living creature who is the son of Satan, conceived through Satan's incestuous union with his daughter, Sin. Death is a fearsome shape who's first act after being born is to rape his mother. He threatens even Satan on their first encounter, but later the three unite in their common goal to conquer earth.

298
Thank you for the summaries. Your site has been a tremendous help to me

297
is there support in the bible for christ's exaltation among the angels in heaven in the beginning of raphael's story?

Yes, in Hebrews i.6, and Psalms ii,6-7. It is also supported by the theology of St. Thomas.

296
Are the seven deadly sins referred to in Paradise Lost?

See No. 75. Milton implies indictment of these sins in the all embracing act of eating the forbidden fruit. Gluttony and lust, for example, are overtly present. Covetousness and envy of the "gods" is instilled in Eve by the serpent. Eve feels pride in her imagined superiority. Adam and Eve slothfully retreat to a shady spot and sleep after food and sex; and finally, spew angry accusations at each other.

295
I intended to skim thru the questions & comments & got so caught up in the range of subjects and some of your witty responses that I ended up reading every last one

294
I'm looking for information comparing Paradise Lost and A Doll's House by Ibsen. In Paradise Lost Eve develops as a wife because she learns the value of submissiveness and humility - characteristics which Christians believe to be basic to a happy home and a happy life. A Doll's House seems to argue against such beliefs. Is it possible that both writers are right, in a certain sense, or is the play a complete denial of all that Christians believe about marriage and the role of women?

Christian beliefs vary widely on woman's role, so no doubt many Christians would be in total sympathy with A Doll's House, though you are correct that it is at odds with the fundamentalist portrayal in PL.

This is not measurable science, but social viewpoint and subjective judgment. Regarded as political statements, either one can be "right" depending on the mores of the day, or that of the individuals rebelling against it. Both writers are "right" in their dramatic portrayals in the sense that there will always be women like Eve and there will always be women like Nora.

Some related comments can be found at Nos. 290, 209, & 145.

293
What are the homosexual references in PL?

The angels are all male [x.889], and Raphael implies that they do express love in a semi-physical way [viii.626]. Whether that makes them gay or not is debatable, to say the least.

Before she meets Adam, Eve falls in love with her own reflection in a pond. You could say that was understandable, but in a comical moment, her first impression on seeing Adam causes her to reject his less than soft appearance and head back to the pool [iv.460-486].

Sodom is referred to, where Lot offered his daughters to intruders [i.505] to save his male visitors from being raped--thought of as a "worse" kind of rape.

292
Skimming through your archives has proven a wonderful introduction to the poem for me. Thank you for your wonderful resource.

291
if the source of milton’s version of adan & eve is the bible, what is the bible’s source? also I know he expanded the poem into 12 books instead of 10. in what way did he expand it? thanks for your help!

The Genesis tales originate from many sources and many authors. Early Sumerian and Babylonian creation mythology contains familiar elements, including a beautiful earthly garden, a wicked serpent, plants offered and eaten, gods getting angry, one man’s sore rib, and a beautiful mother of mankind.

Milton didn’t expand the poem, he merely split a couple of the extra long chapters in two. The later, 12-book version is the preferred one, especially since he added summaries at the beginning of each book to help us out. Here is a comparison:

10-Book Version (1667) Books I thru VI Book VII Book VIII Book IX Book X

remain becomes becomes becomes becomes

12-Book Version (1674) Books I thru VI Books VII & VIII Book IX Book X Books XI & XII

290
Can you give me some feedback on the representation of marriage in PL?

There was never any question that Adam and Eve were ever anything but a married couple--the ceremony performed by God himself only moments after the two met. But while the Bible is unclear about exactly when their marriage was consummated, Milton isn't. See comment #283.

The other interesting question from our cultural standpoint, which rejects inequality in marriage, is just how broad is the hierarchic spread depicted in this first, archetypal marriage. You'll find many comments here on this issue.

289
The treatment of music is one of the odd details of the devil's Pandaemonium in Book I. How would you explain the place of music in Hell? (I-711-712) Thank you for your time and your wittiness, I laughed quite often reading some of your responses to ambiguous questions. You can also e-mail me at xxxxx@hotmail.com if you prefer.

Judging from what spews from the boomboxes these days I'm surprised you would doubt the relationship between music and hell.

Rather than describing an audible concert, your excerpt is metaphorical, likening the rising of the great temple to a symphony. But, yes, there was music in hell. The fallen angels were, after all, angels, to whom music, like architecture, was no small talent.

Milton occasionally parodies heavenly and hellish elements, such as the holy and unholy trinities, or the volunteerism of Christ and Satan. Note the use of music as entertainment at the celebration in heaven [v.618-627], and then later to pass the hours in hell, waiting Satan's return [ii.546-555].

288
I am doing a research paper on how Satan's rebellion from God in Paradise Lost supports enlightenment ideals such as freedom, equality, natural rights, and skepticism. Are there any specific recources that could help me while writing this paper?

First of all, change "supports" to "reflects" or better yet, "mimics." Recognize that these ideals do not apply in heaven the same as they do on earth.

You could spend a lot of time looking for what others have to say about this subject, but your best resource is in the words spoken by Satan in PL. Your energy is best spent studying them in several well annotated versions.

287
are the invocations in books 1,3,4,& 7 significant?
michelle

Depends how deeply you want to get into Milton and his poetry. They're not essential to the plot. The novel dispenses with them altogether.

But the question does come up, doesn't it, just who is this narrator and how does he know every detail of heaven, hell, and the beginning of the world?

The Renaissance belief was that great epic poetry could only be written through divine illumination. In Book III's invocation, Milton calls upon his "Celestial Light" to surpass his physical blindness and "shine inward."

(By the way, it's 1, 3, 7 & 9. Were you testing me?)

286
In lines 1-263, Book I, what does milton believe about free will? How do you know?

He believes Satan and his followers had total free will in all they did before and after they fell from heaven. You know because Satan and his lieutenant spend these pages discussing their options and choices, having just lost the war, and expressing decisiveness and determined vengeance against God.

285
I am writing a report on Ithuriel's Spear, and I think this spear was referenced to in your excerpt from Michael vs. Satan. But I have one question, and I need an answer as soon as possible, who is Michael?
xxxxx@hotmail.com

No, Michael didn't use Ithuriel's spear, though both angels' weapons came from the same armory as mentioned in the excerpt you read, which was adapted from vi.320.

You can find out about Michael in the Dramatis Personae.

284
What is Milton's view of "knowing" as expressed in this poem? What does it mean to "know?" Are there both literal and metaphorical developments of this idea in Paradise Lost? ---How do these questions relate to PL? Why is it important to know? What is better left unknown? What relationship is there between knowing and sinning? Can one know and not sin?
PLEASE, I need your help!! This paper is due by tommorrow at 2:30!

God's only commandment to Adam and Eve in the beginning was not to eat the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge, which would impart knowledge of good and evil that would eliminate their innocence--innocence not entirely different from the innocence of children and animals, who have no understanding of good and evil.

Satan argued that without knowing evil, how can you know how to avoid it? or how to enjoy what is good, not knowing what is good?

Raphael told Adam not to concern himself with curiosity about the stars in the heavens, but to attend to practical matters. But, paradoxically, Raphael proved Satan's point, since his primary mission was to bring the knowledge of Satan's evil to Adam, so he could avoid it.

One archaic, biblical definition of knowing is having sexual intercouse: "Adam knew Eve." This definition may have influenced, or been influenced by, the popular notion of the forbidden fruit having awakened sexual feelings.

283
My professor is curious about the sexual relationship of Adam and Eve BEFORE the Fall. Was there sex or just "sweet intercourse of looks and smiles"? We don't have any Milton buffs at my school so he has offered an extra credit assignment to find info fo him. We have only read Book 8 of PL so I need some extra help. I looked through the archives and many were helpful but I need a little bit more. (Maybe other web sites as well.) Thank you so much.

Not getting enough, eh? :-)

Yes, Milton is definite about it, Adam and Eve did consummate their marriage with honest to goodness, bona fide, real sex before the fall. He waxes passionate in praise of conjugal lovemaking and ridicules prudes who assert Paradise is incompatible with such things. It's all in Book IV, lines 736-775.

282
Hello! I am impressed with this site, good god! anyway I scrolled down the whole entire thing and basically found tons of great info. However, I am giving a presentation this Friday(5-21-99) on book v, I have read the book, the cliffnotes, and the summaries on your site, but I was just wondering if you had any deep thoughts or interestings insights on book v that I might have missed. Any questions that i could ask the class...Thanks SO Much!

In The Nude, Kenneth Clark describes the difference between nakedness, which is to be deprived of one's clothes, with the accompanying embarrassment felt in this "huddled and defenseless" state--and nudity, which is the image of the "balanced, prosperous, and confident body." You could say Adam and Eve were "nude" before the fall, and "naked" after.

Book V contains two brief but powerful allusions to the nudity of Adam and Eve: Adam as he treks out to greet Raphael [350-357], and Eve--of all things--serving dinner, (her sensuousness juxtaposed with the sumptuous delicacies) [443-450].

In another vein, perhaps you could form a fun question out of these interesting tidbits. Line 363 mentions Raphael in battle--but wait--isn't Raphael telling the story? How come he doesn't say "I" or "me"? And how does Raphael know what was said in private between Satan and his followers? Did Milton goof?

281
ý really pittty for myself and for the one's who r supposed to read this xxx-long poem..I can't stop thinking what was wrong with milton!!if he had intenet would he have again written this?? no way out!lets enter! anil koprulu-TR

In a way, we agree with you, as do many others. It's a long, tough poem. That's why the novel was written. (Sorry folks, but this is a made-to-order set up for a plug.)

No, Milton wasn't whacked. He wrote it in a time when, as you say, there was no internet, no TV, no movies, no video games. Writing was the only way people could enter other worlds, and they were more willing than we are to make the necessary effort.

It's tough when you have to read the poem, rather than want to read it. My suggestion to anyone feeling overwhelmed by the prospect, as you do, is to read the novel first. Yes, I know, this adds another whole book to the task. But the novel's easy reading, fast (comparatively) and (unlike Cliffs Notes) enjoyable. When you then advance to the poem, you will have a full understanding of everything that is happening, and some practice in recognizing the style of phrasing, which is similar but less complicated in the novel. It will be enjoyable to see how the tale was expanded and embellished by the master--a big difference from taking the whole thing on cold--even with the feeble crutch of Cliffs Notes or such summaries.

If you don't want to buy it, the novel is available in most big libraries.

280
what quotes explain why satan was cast out of heaven by God?

You can find a complete explanation without going past the first two pages of the poem.

279
in what ways does milton evoke pathos in the reader in describing the fate of Satan and the fallen angels? Support with quotes.

In Book I, lines 522-619, between the description of the foulest demons and the rousing speech by Satan, there is a sequence most sympathetic to the plight of the fallen angels. Also read Satan's speech at the beginning of Book IV. You can also find inklings of Satan's regret later in this chapter as he stalks Adam and Eve, and even in Book IX, as he approaches Eve in the form of the serpent, [lines 455-466] where he is briefly softened by her beauty.

278
I am in the beginning process of writing a 4-5 page term paper for my college class... Trace the horticulture element through "Paradise Lost" as a unifying device. To be very honest, I don't have the slightest idea of where to start. Can anyone give me some pointers? Many, many thanks for any help. xxxxx@hotmail.com

We are introduced to the grand "horticulture" of the Garden of Eden in Book IV, along with Satan, on his first visit there. He immediately learns that one element there, the Tree of Knowledge, provides the key to the downfall of the human race, and the ideal revenge for Satan.

In Book V, the angel Raphael dines with Adam and Eve on the delicious fruits of the Garden, as he brings them his teachings and warning. He relates the creation of the world and its grand landscape in Book VII. And in VIII, Adam tells Raphael what he remembers of his first view of the Garden of Eden.

In IX, on the fateful day, Adam goes to find Eve, bringing a garland of flowers for her [ix.838]. With a bough of forbidden fruit in her hand, she reveals to him her sin [850], and in shock and horror he drops the garland [890]. After both have sinned, they seek large fig leaves to cover their shame.

In Book X, God punishes the devils with visions of fruit trees that lure and torment them [see response to comment #273].

The ultimate unifying device is in the finale and in the very title "Paradise Lost"--the loss of innocence and immortality, symbolized by the loss of the Garden of Eden.

277
I disagree with # 270 on the novel. I think the excerpts are great and will buy the novel. I know you can select what comments to post. How come you didn't answer this and #269? I think they are written by the same person.

You're right on all counts. We usually don't respond to comments, only questions, but since you asked ... We don't censor negative comments. We subscribe to the adage, "There's no such thing as bad publicity."

Number 269/270 is actually correct in all his points. The simplified novel is for people who find the poem overwhelming. (And, yes, Milton probably is tossing around a bit down there. Sorry, Milty.)

We also concede our answers here are probably not geared to "Advanced Level English Literature" intellects. Most of our visitors are high school students. And we welcome any corrections to "wrong" answers, but we never get any. (Not that we're never wrong--people probably just have better things to do.)

And yes, Paradise Lost, The Novel is for sale in order to make money.

276
I need to summarize this novel for school, it doesn't have to be in depth I was wondering if you could just give me a quick summary.

Sometimes students say "novel" when they mean "poem." Assuming you do mean the novel, a general summary would be the same as the poem's, with the exception that the war in heaven and creation of the world take place in the beginning of the book, rather than in Raphael's narration in the middle, as in the original.

See the short summary here--which you can use as is, if you mean "poem"-- or adjust as stated above if you mean "novel." You can also read the list of captions for the illustrations, which gives a story summary in the order in which it is told in the novel.

Oh, and please change it into your own words. We don't mind people using our summaries verbatim, but your teacher probably does.

275
what are the super natural concepts of paradise lost?

God, Satan, angels, heaven, hell, or anything relating to religion or mythology--(there are many mythological allusions in PL)--is concerned with the supernatural, that is, forces which supersede the natural world. Very little in PL is not concerned with the supernatural. Adam and Eve are natural humans, but their origins are far from normal.

274
I might sound lame, but I was wondering if you could tell me websites or books that relate to the social structure of heaven. I would really appreciate it. Second is there a less complicated version of paradise lost to read, not cliff notes though. thanx. my e-mail is *****@yahoo.com

No lame sound to your first request. Anybody can make up anything about heaven (and they do). The only universally respected sources of information are of course the Bible, and to a lesser extent, Paradise Lost and Dante's Paradiso. For biblical references you will have to stick to the subject of angels, rather than "heaven" per se. Though heaven is mentioned in the Bible hundreds of times, it is always in its relationship to earth.

Here are some of the better websites on angels; fallen angels; and a Catholic perspective.

But did you really not know there is a simplified version of PL in the form of a novel? Where have we failed?

273
I have to find a way to compare themes in Paradise Lost and particularly the tempation and fall to drug addiction. I am lost! any ideas? thanks a million.

I suppose you could theorize that Satan was addicted to evil, or that Adam was addicted to Eve, or make a case for the temptation and irretrievable loss of innocence being like experimenting with drugs (forbidden fruit), then finding out too late one is hooked.

But the best analogy comes in the punishment God inflicts on Satan and his followers in hell for tempting Eve. After turning them all into snakes, he makes a grove of fruit trees appear, similar to the forbidden one in Paradise. Then he makes them ravenously hungry for the fruit so they cannot resist going after it. But when they bite on it, the fruit turns to bitter ashes in their mouths. They fall to the ground spitting it out in distaste. But immediately the hunger returns, and the image of delicious fruit is again irresistible, so they repeat the process over and over.

As with real addicts, it makes no matter that they learn repeatedly that the promise of fulfillment is an illusion and the end result will be bad. The craving supersedes all reason and free will is lost. Such is the case with all forms of addiction, once the habit progresses to excess--alchoholism, gambling, even smoking.

But even the devils' punishment is not as bad as the real hell of addiction, for it is temporary. After an uncertain period of time God returns them to their normal state. Real addicts don't have that luxury.

272
how does satan see himself? what does he say he with his troops was able to do?

In Book IX, lines 135-143, he brags that he "freed from servitude" almost half the angels, and that he ruined in one day the world it took God six to create.

271
Can you please complete the following quotation from Paradise Lost bk.ix - "Unless an age to late, or cold climate, or years ---- my intended wing.

damp

In other words, prevent flight. Milton is invoking his muse, without whose inspiration his poetry will not be able to "soar." (In addition to the regular definition, "intended" here also means "extended" or "outstretched.")

270
The exerpts that I have read simply portray a cheap imitation of John Milton's Epic poem. I am studying Paradise Lost, Books 4 and 9 for Advanced Level English Literature. I feel that this book was simply written to make money. The only people who will enjoy it are those who do not have the mental capacity to appreciate the real Epic poem. In translating the poem in this way, all John Milton's individual style has been lost. This book is an insult to Engilsh Literature, I am sure John Milton himself would turn in his grave if he knew his Epic had been turned into this "Nightime Reading" trash.

269
A message to anyone who visits this site: Leave now, none of thew comments or tips are correct, I study Paradise Lost at Advanced Level standard, all of the replies to your comments are not worth the "paper" thay are written on.
A message to the people who deal with this site: Don't give up your day job.

268
is eve to blame for the fall

For hers, yes. You probably mean THE fall--hers and Adam's and everybody else's, because she gave in first and tempted Adam. No, Adam had free will also. Read No. 108.

267
Did Paradise Lost influence any of Shakepeare’s works?

Shakespeare came before Milton so it may have been the other way around. In fact, young Milton’s first published poem was an elegy to Shakespeare. PL’s Satan has been compared to Iago, the villainous master of deception in Othello, and to Macbeth.

266
I have a question concerning lines 505-515 in Book V. I understand that Melville referenced these lines in "The Doubloon" chapter of Moby Dick. I am trying to understand these lines but am unable to...can you help?

I read the chapter you cite and see no reference to PL. I also doubt these particular PL lines would be pertinent. Please check your information and write again.

265
what is an epic question?

Quo Vadis?

264
Describe the Paradise of Fools. Where is this located in the poem. HELP! FAST.

ItisdescribedinBookIII,lines430-497. (puff puff)

On his journey to earth, Satan alights on the outer shell of our universe. Wandering about on the barren surface, he comes to a windy place, a future "limbo" which would be occupied by the souls of those who spent their lives in vain pursuit of praise and empty worldly values.

263
Which are the images of women in «Paradise Lost», the Poem?
Thank you very much.

There are two female characters in PL--Eve and Sin, daughter of Satan. Eve is the biblical prototypical or ideal woman (with some Miltonesque attributes) who is subordinate to man in most ways; Sin is Satan's female counterpart. Urania is the Christian Muse which Milton invokes repeatedly throughout PL for inspiration to his writing. All of the angels are male. Certain other minor passing personifications have been deemed female, such as Grace and Liberty.

Not surprisingly, PL's sun is male, with a female moon "borrowing her light from him" [vii.377]. (That pretty well sums up women's place from the beginning of the world to about 1968 or so, wouldn't you say? But note the interesting statistic given in the answer to No. 261.)

262
Hi, I'm the junior high student who asked about the theme. I am now reading Paradise Regained. I know you have vast knowledge regarding PL, but I was hoping you could help me out by answering this: What is JM's view of the perfect, moral human in this book? Thanks for all your help (in advance) - EK

PL underscores the notion that humanity does not produce perfect, moral humans. But PR gives us one. As in PL, the struggle is about resisting temptation. Unlike PL, Christ succeeds. It’s easy to be good when the promised result is all good. But morality is about holding fast to a difficult path against the temptation of easy rewards.

261
WHO IS THE MAIN CHARACTER ?( SATAN OR GOD OR ADAM OR MILTON..)

It's debatable.

Satan (to the chagrin of many) fits the epic mold as hero in the first half of PL. Later the story tends to center around Adam.

But I will add this interesting and surprising information to consider. In the index of this list you will find that, to date, visitors have submitted 55 questions pertaining specifically to Satan; 4 pertaining to Adam; and 19 pertaining to Eve.

260
In reference to no. 257, I think you forgot to mention they were also alone without the animals, since after the fall, the animals were no longer friendly to man.

Good point.

259
What is Milton's handling of gender (male and female) in Paridise Lost? And cite textual evidence supporting your answer. Also, What's the complexity of Milton's handling of the theme of knowledge in relation to the literary and intellectual structure of Paradise Lost?

See Nos. 209, 201, 143, 138, 98. Also No. 258 just below.

And as for your second question . . . wha?!? . . . When given a question like this to deal with, my best advice is to respond in kind with like mix of eloquent babble and pseudo-intellectual gobbledygook, deliver it with a straight face, and hope for the best.

258
What do we learn about the Fall of Man through the change in the discussions of Adam and Eve

Well, they do turn into the Bickersons. See Nos. 226, 133, 59, 28, & 3.

257
When Adam and Eve leave Paradise in their "solitary" way, does that mean alone without God, without Satan, without Paradise or something completely different?

They were definitely not without God. See xi.334-354.
They were definitely not without Satan. See i.209-220.
They were without Paradise, which would define them as homeless, not "solitary."

While they are not abandoned by God, they will probably have no more personal appearances from him or the angels as they did in Paradise. Adam senses this in xi.315-333.

But mainly they qualify as "solitary" because they are the only two people--now ordinary mortals like you and me--in the world.

Sometimes the simplest, most obvious answer is the answer...
But apt the Mind or Fancy is to rove
Uncheckt, and of her roving is no end;
[viii.188]

256
I have to write a paper, dur Friday, comparing the respective soliloquies of Adam(X.720-844) and Satan(IV.32-113). I havecome up with such points as, the speech of Satan defines him as an antihero and allows us to sympathize with him, and we are able to see paralells between the 2 characters. Any other suggestions? Thanks

You're correct in that the two speeches parallel each other closely. Both lament mistakes made, and the dire results. Both persons are in a state of desperate hopelessness. Both regret bringing down so many others by their actions. Line x.840-841 underscores this. But while Adam feels responsible for the plight of future humanity, and is willing to take all the burden onto himself, Satan's main concern is his hurt pride, and he resolves devotion to evil as his only relief.

255
GIVE ME A BRIEF SUMMARY ON WHAT BOOK 4 IS ABOUT?

Please don't yell. Go back to the main index, look up "A Simplified Summary"--all the books are summarized.

254
Satan is a magnificent character. Discuss, indicating clearly in your answer the poetic and dramatic techniques used in his creation.(Book 1 only). If you could help me with this question I'd be forever grateful!

First look up No. 236.

By beginning the story with Satan just having been thrown into hell, we get a full picture of his character as he reacts to his loss with anger and increased defiance. His desperate situation is even more intense than that which precipitated his rebellion in heaven. When he calls his legions together, he is choked with emotion, that so many have fallen while following his cause and yet still look to him for leadership.

Nos. 44 & 129 deal with Satan in Book I.

253
1.What is the irony in Adam's words when he says, "The Wife, where danger or dishonor lurks, Safest and seemliest by her Husband stays, Who guards her, or with her the worst endures."(Book 9)
2. What has just happened when Milton says, ". . . and Nature gave a second groan"?(Book 9)
3. What 2 defenses does Eve give for her sin?
4. How does Milton portray Eve?
5.In Book 9 what is meant by the line ". . .all was lost"?

You're not even TRY-ing. Nos. 2 and 5 are so easy you could guess the answers without opening PL. The title tells you what was lost. In addition to the P word, innocence, immortality and almost life itself were lost to Adam and Eve. What happened in the Garden of Eden to cause that loss? What was the second part of that sad event? Think, man! You can do it!

The irony in Adam's words is that the woman he proposes to protect from danger brings disaster to them both.

Look up Eve in the index.

252
Hi there, I have an assignment due in two weeks on a thesis of my choice. So far I've come up with, "What is God's role in PL?" I had more in my prospectus, but my teacher noticed some red flags. I was wondering if you could help me narrow down my thesis, perhaps suggest different ones, and include a few directions I could take with it. By the way, I love how you handled No. 231! Please e-mail if possible: xxxxx@aol.com (Don't be fooled by the seemingly juvenile adress, it's a long story :) )Thank you kindly!

God is a good topic. He has a difficult role to play. He must be loving but fair. He must be merciful toward his screw-up children, but he cannot betray Justice. Milton's stated purpose is to justify God's motives, which, in one way of looking at it, involves justifying free will, or explaining it. Yet faced with the task of drawing us to God's point of view, Milton shocks us by showing admirable qualities in Satan.

God as a good natured George Burns is one thing, but in PL he is a dictator bent on holding together his empire. He sets arbitrary rules and inflicts extreme penalties. His supremacy, perfection and opulence are emphasized. A prescription for an unsympathetic character.

251
Which of Milton's devils offers the wisest councel in the debate in hell in book 2 of Paradise Lost?

The devils have just lost the Big One. How to handle defeat:
The first speech comes from a dimwitted warmonger ready to risk total annihilation.
The second speaker is a coward, who counters with a do-nothing proposal.
The third raises the political ambitions of his peers by proposing they turn their attention to building a new empire in hell.
Finally, Beelzebub, Satan's second in command, proposes a clever revenge, which sets the stage for man's downfall, and may be considered wisest, in the evil sense, because it worked.

250
Wicked sight. My english professor got me into this stuff and i came here to see what it is really like. You've so encouraged me to read it for myself. Thanks. C

249
In Frankenstein, the creation of V. Frankenstein reads Paradise Lost. What is the relevence of Mary Shelley's mention of this in her book? Do you think the story and situation of the monster in Frankenstein relate to Paradise Lost?

The monster himself will explain it to you quite clearly in Chapter XV. Also look up Frankenstein in the index.

248
Could you please help me to understand the meaning of "intranst" (in the line 420, book eleven: "all his Spirits became intranst").Thank you.

It’s Milton’s spelling of “entranced.” Most editions of PL convert to today’s spelling and punctuation. You are reading the original version. Very brave of you, I must say.

Adam’s senses (“spirits”) have been put into a kind of magical hypnotic trance that will allow the angel to impart visions to him that transcend mortal sight and hearing.

247
I'm in an upper level Milton course and have free reign on my last paper. I have been Paradise Lost-ed to death! Got any info on Samson Agonsites? or where I can get some more info?

This site keeps us pretty busy just concentrating on PL.

246
Don't you think Milton symbolizes support for women's liberation when he makes Eve demand to go off on her own in Book 9 to get out from under the watchful eye of Adam?

Yes but he squelches it in line xi.176; after all, don't forget, her "liberated" walk in the woods did turn into disaster.

245
What are some examples of blank verse and epic form in Milton's poem Paradise Lost.

Blank verse is verse that doesn't rhyme, and is composed in the rhythm of iambic pentameter (see 21), which is all of Paradise Lost. For Milton's unsympathetic views on rhyming see his preface to PL, "The Verse," which he added to the second edition along with the arguments. You can find it at the bottom of this page.

Paradise Lost has many of the elements that define epic form--that it is a long, narrative poem; it follows the exploits of a hero (in this case, anti-hero); it involves warfare and the supernatural; it begins in the midst of the action, with earlier crises in the story brought in later by flashback; and it expresses the ideals and traditions of a people. It has these elements in common with the Aeneid, the Iliad, and the Odyssey.

244
1. what connection does Milton make between wanton curls and wanton coils?
2. Discuss and comment upon the unusual origin of the character Sin in PL.
3. Who is the "second Eve" and, by implication, the "second Adam" ?
4. What poet says Shakespeare was not of an age but for all time?

Please remember, we're here to help, not do it all for you. You can find some help in the index below, and at iv.306 and ix.517.

243
More than one recent critic of PL has noted that Milton's secondary purpose seems to be to depict woman's disobedience and to justify the ways of God to woman. Milton, you can be sure, would have disagreed with this opinion on several points. Do you agree or disagree with the critic? Milton? thanx

1674 "woman" was obviously not the same thing as 2008 "woman" (not to mention Scriptural "woman"). You're probably too young to remember, but there was a time when the terms "man," or "he" in hypothesis, by definition included men and women. (So far, we have not been reprimanded for respecting that tradition here, or for always saying "Adam and Eve," never "Eve and Adam.") I don't see a separation in Milton's intent. He was speaking to both, and accusing both of the sin of disobedience.

Eve's pulling away from Adam in IX may have led to her downfall, but by today's standard it's one of her more normal moments. Milton's dialogue argues both male and female sides so well in this scene it's hard to tell whether he is accusatory or in sympathy with her. See previous comments on Milton & Eve in Nos. 145, 138, 133, 108, 98, 28 .

242
Can you define 3-4 characteristics of Satan in PL 1-4, explaining how they were revealed to you through mythic narrative adn/or trhourgh the reasoning or rhetoric in his speechesl--pLEASE?
3 epic qualities or conventions in PL 1-4?

thank you!!!

pLEASE note:

Here's another good way not to get your question answered: Transfer your entire assignment over to us, copied verbatim (we love that), preferably including three or four or five compound essay type questions. (a few choice typos will add just the right touch)

thank you!!!

241
The archangel Michael tells adam that if he has learned the limitations of human knowledge and if he has added to his wisdom the virtue of charity, then Adam will have "A paradise within thee, happier far." A paradise within? What does this final teaching tell us about Milton's belief in what is "within"? How large does this belief make the human soul? How great does it make the adventure into which adam and eve now depart?

The Christian soul is defined as immortal, therefore limitless.

Michael is saying there is greater joy and satisfaction to be had from inner peace and harmony than any that can be got from without, even from a setting like the Garden of Eden.

Eve verbalizes this new awareness to Adam in the expulsion scene: "To go with you is to stay in Paradise; to stay without you is to leave Paradise behind."*

This view is supported on the other side as well, by Satan. See comment No. 213 - part 4.

* This quote comes from the novel's interpretation of the poem's somewhat confusing lines: ...with thee to go, is to stay here; without thee here to stay, is to go hence unwilling

240
Am I missing something? Book XII, lines 648-649 read: "They hand in hand with wand'ring steps and slow,/Through Eden took their solitary way." Were Adam and Even not just banished from Eden?

They were banished from the Garden, which was in Eden. Eden is the name for the whole surrounding region. God "planted a garden eastward in Eden"--Genesis 2:8, though sometimes the "Garden of Eden" is loosely referred to as "Eden," just as heaven and the Garden of Eden are both called Paradise, or as the United States is called "America," which is, more accurately, a pair of continents.

239
the temptation of eve

You think you've covered everything when you offer to accept "comments and questions" on your website, but innovative visitors invent yet new categories. What do you think, folks, should we change our submission form to "comments, questions & headings"?

238
I'm hoping to do a presentation on images of Heaven and Hell in Western literature this Wednesday. I would be delighted if you could help me out on this matter. I studied Paradise Lost some time ago and have forgotten the finer details, especially the Hierarchical structure of Heaven. I'm not even sure if it was mentioned. Please could you tell me the structure involving the Seraphim, Cherubim etc.
I'm supposed to give this speech in Japanese infront of a class of Japanese students and i want to convey the greatness of Milton's visions. With your help I'm hoping to avoid giving a weak speech. As im sure you know all too well... "To be weak is miserable" Thanking you in advance

For the most vivid descriptions of heaven and hell go here and look up the lines referenced in comments Nos. 187 & 27. Also look at Nos. 165, 131, & 41. Milton does not define the hierarchical structure in heaven in PL. He alludes to it briefly in v.584-594.

237
For what sin was Satan cast out of heaven?

Sin is the breaking of religious law. Religion is an earthly phenomenon. Milton's only indication of law-making for the angels in heaven is the Father's edict that both he and his Son should be obeyed equally. Fact is, we don't know what the laws were in heaven. There are certain unstated axioms everyone can accept, however. It's reasonable to assume, for example, that a king's subjects are not allowed to wage war against him.

And besides, who said he sinned? They were having a war, and the loser was driven out of the occupied territory.

236
Why does Milton have God explain the fall of Adam and Eve in book three.

Classical literature commonly uses non-chronological narrative. This allows the author to compose his own sequence of dramatic impacts, rather than being restricted to what comes in the order of events.

Milton knew the big moment everyone would be waiting for is the temptation and fall, and that a long exposition on this event after the fact would be anti-climactic. So he gave it to us first, as God's prophecy. He didn't need to worry about revealing too much. We all already know how the story comes out.

235
Hiya! I need as much information as possible on the names, personalities, doings, ect. of the 13 demons involved in the story. I am also intrested in how they plan on bringing the end, but I am not sure if it is specifically covered....Any help is greatly thanked!

See the Dramatis Personae for a complete roster, with book & line references.

Or go directly to Book I, lines 381-534. (also 678 & 740) Many of Milton's demons are the gods of ancient civilizations. See annotations or consult an encyclopedia. In Book II, several of them give long speeches at the council, which expose their personalities. In Book VI, lines 355-372 (also 446 & 620), some are singled out in their battle with the good angels. Beelzebub, Satan's second, is prominent in Books I & II.

Don't know what you mean by their "bringing the end." Paradise Lost keeps them pretty busy just getting started with their mischief. If you mean Armageddon, that is God's plan, of which at this point the devils have no knowledge.

234
What happens in Eve's dream?

This is Satan's first attempt to corrupt Eve. Before he tempts her in the form of a serpent, he comes to her in this dream, disguised as a friendly angel, and successfully tempts her to eat the forbidden fruit. Immediately upon eating the fruit, she and the angel fly up into the sky, like gods. The dream is cut short when Gabriel's scouts find Satan whispering in sleeping Eve's ear, and apprehend him. She is distraught when she awakens next morning and tells Adam about the dream.

233
Hello and many thanks for your unbelievably well run web site. I am an American putting together the equivalent of a masters thesis out in France, and as such have a hard time finding references. My topic is the evolution of what I call the 'complex character'; that is to say, a character who is not immediately branded by narrative into a simple protagonist/antagonist dichotomy, but instead resists simplistic classification and invites readers to embrace the complexity of human psychology. I have chosen Paradise Lost as a historical reference point, as Milton's portrayal of Satan grants us an empathic window into his character and represents the explosion, in a large way, of the classic antagonist (an idealized antagonist--that is to say a perfect villain, which was a notion that arrived along with the Heroic tales of the Middle Ages and was later reinforced after the Reformation, so far as I can tell at this point. Unlike a number of your other requests, I do not ! wish for you to do my work for me; rather, I would simply like your point of view on the choice of PL for this topic, and perhaps any insight into what seems to be Milton's swaying and indecisive portrayal of Satan: Satan resists quick condemnation (no pun intended) even if presented in a context of despicable evil. It often seems Milton wishes to glorify Satan, yet cannot manage to prevent himself from returning to a dogmatic context which glorifies God and condemns Satan. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated, and if possible, a dialogue between the two of us would be wonderful--I'm certain I'll encounter many more blocks in my study as it becomes more intensive. At this point I am reading PL for the first time and preparing my subject. Many thanks.

To analyze Milton's complex and unconventional portrayal, start with some simple insights. Satan becomes disturbingly sympathetic in the first part of the poem, while reverting to the "perfect villain" in the latter half--for one important reason. God is much more powerful than Satan, so his rebellion is doomed; but Satan is more powerful than Adam and Eve, and wins his contest with them. Quite simply, we do want to empathize with the underdog.

Of course there's a little more to it than that--more than enough to fill a "complex character" thesis. If you have not done so, look up Satan below.

232
Explain Moloch's political position in lines 51-70 in Book 2

Any political subtleties here are buried under a hawkish thirst for war--the only thing he knows or is good at. There is some military strategy in all his emotionalism. He proposes bringing the very hellfires designed for their torments up with them to fire back at God's forces in heaven. You might infer that his definition of power, political or otherwise, is through nothing more complicated than the use of force.

231
Okay, I've noticed you're sarcastic in the way you answer some of the questions. Well I don't need any sarcasam I'll I need is your help. For example, I have a research paper and my topic is discuss symbolism in John Milton's Paradise Lost and various other literary terms? Can you help? Give me some samples of literary terms and what is your understanding. Don't just tell me well on line()your answer is stated. Hello I don't have the book except the cliff notes.

yes sir! no sir! .. uh … s-sorry sir – uh – ma’m? – uh, …… just plain “ho”…

We deeply regret the effort required to scroll down several inches to find the answers to your questions on the research paper your doing on the book you don’t have at 184, 140, and 92 because hello they’ve already been asked and answered. (Sarcastic? Moi??)

It’s been a pleasure to serve you.

230
I have a paper due on Tuesday centered around the theme of a journey (either physical or psychological) in Paradise Lost...can you give me some information on who undergoes a journey and some information about that journey. Thanks alot. My e-mail address is *****@aol.com

According to my calculations, you sent this email around midnight Sunday. Adding 24 hours for response brings you to midnight Monday--to get a suggested topic for your paper due on Tuesday. I'm not a mathematician, so I won't try to figure out how this can work.

Satan's journey to earth is the big one, but since you're pressed for time why not center on Raphael's descent. It is briefly and quite beautifully described. The theme simply stated could be that of a celestial presence entering the physical world.

Raphael receives his assignment [v.219-245]
He approaches the gate of heaven [v.246-256]
His flight to earth [v.257-270]
He alights on earth [v.270-287]
He is seen by the angels on guard [v.287-290]
His first impressions of the Garden [v.291-297]
Adam views his approach [v.298-320]
Raphael describes the speed of his descent to Adam [viii.107-114]

229
In Book II Satan literally falls. What does he land on? I have looked for it for hours and I have a quiz about that tomorrow. Is it the bridge that sin and death build?
comments = What keeps Satan from falling in book 2?

See lines 931-938. Flying through the vastness of chaos on his way to earth, Satan encounters a vacuum. He drops ten thousand fathoms till a thunder cloud shoots him back up again. The science of Milton's day held that thunder occurred when hot and cold elements mixed, igniting sulfer and casting forth matter with the same forceful effect as gunpowder.

228
Is there any explicit evidence in Paradise Lost to prove that Milton believed all human interactions, including romantic relationships,are power relationships?

You certainly state your question in a very restrictive way.
--"explicit"? "prove"? - How would you do that except by a flat out statement of belief?
--"all human interactions" - That covers a lot of people and a lot of action.

Also, what exactly do you mean by "power relationships"? Do you mean relationships based on a contest for power--that that could be the basis of all human interactions? I don't think Milton shows any evidence of such extreme cynicism.

(For thoughts on Adam and Eve's power struggle look up nos. 50, 133, 197 & 209.)

227
I'm not actually doing an assignment on Paradise Lost, and I haven't read it, though I think I will now. My question is that some critics have likened Emily Bronte's 'Heathcliff' from Wuthering Heights to Satan in Milton's poem. From what I have read in these other questions about Satan, I can already see a resemblence. Do you have any ideas (if you've read Wuthering Heights)?

Both are rebels against authority, antiheroes propelled by jealousy and revenge, which, "at first though sweet, bitter ere long back on itself recoils." [ix.171]

226
What were the causes and consequences for both Eve and Satan when Satan convinced Eve to eat from the Tree of Knowledge? Not only the physical ramifications, but mental also? THANK YOU!

You ask too much.

Everything in the poem up to the critical moment, delineates the causes. And everything following gives the consequences.

At that moment Satan merely slipped out of sight. Later his speech to his followers evinced boastful pride--cut short as they are all physically changed into snakes.

Physically, Eve lost her immortality and eternal youth. She would now grow old and die. Her emotions ran the gamut, from elation, to cunning, to politics, to love, to lust (I dunno, is lust physical or mental?), to shame, to grief, to belligerence, to contrition, to name a few. See also Nos. 199 & 50. And these are just some of the immediate consequences. Michael takes up most of Books XI and XII enumerating others to come, and he barely gets past the Old Testament. And, oh yes, she lost Paradise.

225
I have to write a paper tracing the arguments that Satan used to entice Eve to eat the fruit. I was wondering if I could get a little guidance on how to make this an interesting subject and not just a regular old boring paper.

Why not steal 207's idea. He likens Satan to your typical attorney. Or how about No. 77, which argues Satan's pitch actually made a lot of sense. Also, consider how he must've come across to Eve, who was literally almost "born yesterday," compared to all us streetwise Monday morning quarterbacks.

224
what gives anyone the right to change milton's words and then sell it as a "novel"

The work is in the public domain. No harm is done to those who love the original as it is, since they need not come into contact with the novel. But there are many who find that the simplified version offers the only chance they have to sample this overwhelming masterpiece.

223
When Sin and Death cross the void on a divinely-built bridge that appears behind the laboring Satan - does this remind you of an extract from a 20C animation? If so, which one?

No, but some of the questions we get bring Daffy Duck to mind.

222
I wish you were our teacher

221
Is Satan a winner or a loser?

Look around you. The war isn't over yet.

Okay I know, you mean within Paradise Lost. Same answer. The end of Paradise Lost does not depict a conclusion to the struggle between earth and hell. To the contrary, the last words of the poem convey, in powerful simplicity, the true beginning of a new world.

Satan lost his first battle in heaven, then won a victory over man in Paradise. But life goes on.

220
What is the name of the first Superdome ever? It means?

Pandemonium. Wild uproar or riotous confusion; a place where this exists; the abode of all demons.

(Thought you had me, huh?)

219
who is urania ? *****@nlamerica.com

Urania is one of the nine Greek goddesses of the arts--astronomy was her speciality. She is the muse Milton calls upon to inspire him to write Paradise Lost. There are four invocations throughout the poem, at the beginning of Books I, III, VII and IX. Milton did not balk at mixing mythology with Christianity in PL.

218
What exactly is apocalypticism?

It is a theological belief system based on Hebrew and Christian literature concerning the end of the world. The book of Revelation in the New Testament is also called the Apocalypse, though apocalyptic elements appear throughout the Bible.

The premise of Paradise Lost is rooted in apocalypticism, in that the loss of Paradise in Eden sets up a chain of events which culminates in the fulfilling of these prophecies. This is delineated in Books III and X of the poem. While the Bible's version is rich with enigmatic imagery and obscure symbols, Milton's explanation, through God's words, is quite explicit. Apocalyptic prophecy fuels the debate about predestination.

217
Imperfect love described in John Milton's paradise lost

The easy answer is that Adam and Eve's love was perfect before the fall and imperfect after, but in Milton's version Adam accepts the fruit from Eve because he places love for her above obedience to God. He had been warned earlier by Raphael to curtail his passion [viii.460-594].

216
Similarities and differences between Milton's creation story and that of the Bible

The Bible doesn't state that the world was created to repopulate heaven after the expulsion of the fallen angels. That is Milton's reasoning. Milton follows the Bible's physical account of the days of creation closely, quoting nearly verbatim at points. He expands upon it and details it using his imagination. There is technically no inconsistency between Milton and Genesis. Milton has the work of creation delegated to the Son. Most people assume it was the Father who did the creating, though it is not so stated in Genesis. Milton may have lessened the impact, though, having God send forth the Son in his chariot "on the wings of Cherubim uplifted" where "all his train followed in bright procession to behold Creation." The Bible's imagery of the solitary Creator moving through the dark, empty abyss is more powerful in its simplicity. .

215
Hi! My college professor assigned an expository paper in which we need to discuss instances of Dramatic and Verbal irony. I desprately need help, as he neve showed us irony nor taught us anything about PL. Thank you in advance!

Don't panic. Read No.164. Read the summaries.

Verbal irony means saying the opposite of what you mean. Sarcasm is a form of verbal irony.

Dramatic irony is a little different. It occurs when characters are clueless to what is obvious to the reader, as when Adam and Eve happily enjoy life in the Garden of Eden, unaware of their impending fall.

At one point a cocky Satan and his cohort let fly a stream of ironic statements or wise cracks to deride the opposing angels when they naively believe they are winning the war against God. [Book VI, lines 558-567 & 607-627] Note how this example illustrates both kinds of irony.

214
Does Satan's logic seem to err at certain points iln Book 4, lines 32-113? If so where and why?

Probably seems so to some people. Moral logic is subjective. To me he makes a lot of sense. He knows everything he's done has turned out badly. But he also knows he's not capable of sincere repentance, and that he would resent a return to servitude and inevitably rebel again.

What you need to do is read this section yourself. It's not that hard to understand--pretty straightforward actually. Apply your own logical criticism.

213
1)Why did God cast Satan out of heaven?
2)Satan considers himself the equal to God in reason. How, then, does Satan explain his defeat?
3)What does God do to stop Satan's reign of terror? Why?
4)Why does Satan say that "The mind is its own place"?
5)How is Satan's pride as tragic as it is heroic?
These are all questions i missed on a test if you could help me I would greatly appreciate it!!!

1) No excuse for missing this one.
2) He blames God for hiding the extent of his power, thereby tempting Satan to challenge him. Lines 637-642, Book I.
3) If by "reign of terror" you mean the war, he sent his Son to end it, single-handedly. Why? The Son says, I'm the one they hate, and since they measure what is right by strength alone, let me show them what I can do. The Father says, both sides are equally matched in this conflict, so this could go on forever. You better get moving, Son, before they wreck heaven altogether [VI, 669-698].
4) It doesn't matter where you are physically--if you're mental state is good, you will be in a good place. Satan says "Which way I fly is Hell; myself am Hell," and he's in Eden when he says it.
5) His "heroism" leads to his "tragedy." I put these words in quotes because all we sane people know he really fits neither category. But as a character in this poem, he arouses certain sympathies in the reader over his errors and defeats, brought on by pride. Doesn't answer your question, but that's all the time we have right now.

212
How is Satan like the monster in "Frankenstein?" Also, How is God like Victor Frankenstein? After all God created Satan out of nothing, but Victor did create "the Monster" out of dead human parts. It should also be noted that Victor's creation finally destroyed him, while Satan was merely banished to Hell. Final, It is important to note that Satn lives in an Inferno (Dante) while Victor's creation burns himself alive with Victor Frankenstein in the flaming inferno. Thanks and please write back as soon as you can. *****@aol.com

Whoa, there! You're rarin' to debate without an opponent. First off, nobody said Satan is like the monster. The usual analogy is between Adam and the monster. (See No. 72.) Both were created as prototypes for a new race of creatures, and both experiments went badly, more or less. The analogy doesn't go much farther than that.

But not to disappoint you, since you're lookin' for a fight, I'll give you one. Look, an analogy can only be made between two things that are like each other in some way or ways. Of course there will also be differences--many more differences than similarities. You can't make an analogy between two things that are exactly the same, because ... there's nothing to compare ... they're exactly the same! ... Get it!?! ... :-)

211
What is the york cycle play? How does it relate to Paradise Lost.
Thanks,
xxxxx@airmail.net

This was a medieval form of drama based on Bible stories, some including those on which PL is based. They developed over several centuries throughout the Old World. In 15th century England, the York cycles were performed in public squares. Stages on wheels moved from square to square, where a "cycle" of scenes was played out--the origin of our "pageant." Like PL, they dramatized and expanded on Scripture. Today's "passion play" is a survivor of this style of drama.

210
WHAT DOES THE "X" MEAN IN THE MIDDLE OF HIS SENTENCES? MY GRANDMOTHER IS READING HIS BOOK, AND DOES NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT IT MEANS. I ADV HER THAT I THOUGHT IT WAS JUST THAT STYLE OF WRITING IN THISE DAYS...PLS ADV ME. MY EMAIL ADDRESS IS xxxxx@YAHOO.COM

Though it doesn't rhyme, Paradise Lost is a poem. Your grandmother probably has an economy edition which saves space by separating lines with an X rather than returning to the left hand of the page for each new line.

209
What is meant by Eve when she says, "For inferior who is free?" (Book IX : 825)

It means "How can anybody be free, if they are inferior to others (in knowledge). More specifically, how can a woman be independent if she must depend on her mate's knowledge and wisdom.

Eve has just eaten the forbidden fruit and imagines herself having increased in wisdom. Since she had considered herself inferior to Adam in this respect, now she thinks she has become his match and maybe even a little superior. She's wondering if she should keep it that way by not sharing the fruit with him.

208
What is meant by the narrator's desire to "justify the ways of God to men?" (Book I: 26) Thanks.

Milton is stating his purpose in composing the epic: to show us the series of events at the beginning of creation that led God to allow so much evil and suffering into the world.

See also Nos. 96 & 74.

207
i have to choose 2 passages in PL to show the persuasiveness of both the narrator (in choosing good) and satan (obviously the opposite). i think choosing satans speech to cajole eve into eating from the tree is probably what they teach in law school, but i am stuck on one for the narrator. what do you think of the speech in book 1 when the narrator is describing satan in the burning lake (l. 209-220)? do you find that to be a convincing description of why one should choose morality? can you help me with a better one?

There is an effective passage at the end of the council in hell where Milton harshly contrasts mankind's perpetual discord with the devils' brotherly cooperation [ii.482-505]. But your original choice is just as good.

(and I've never heard a more vivid analogy to the legal profession.)

206
What is exactly meant by "thy seed shall bruise the Serpent's head?"

This quote is from Adam [x.1031], recalling God's earlier judgment directed to Satan [x.181]: "Her seed shall bruise thy head, thou bruise his heel."

Milton got this metaphorical prophecy, almost verbatim, from the Bible [Gen 3:15]. And he explains it fully in Book XII, lines 375-435.

"Seed" is an archaic way of referring to offspring, especially offspring which hasn't been born yet--in this case, Eve's ultimate descendant, Jesus. The bruising of the heel of the seed, is metaphorical for the crucifixion. And the bruising of the serpent's head is what Jesus accomplished in his sacrifice to mitigate Satan's victory in Eden.

205
explain the relationship between passion,reason and liberty

Given the right doses of passion and reason, i.e. 10% former, 90% latter, liberty would be well served. Since human nature is inclined to reverse those proportions, we tend to exercise our liberties poorly.

Since you didn't ask what this has to do with Paradise Lost, I'll let you figure it out for yourself.

204
I've been asked to "discuss the structue of Paradise Lost as based on a series of massive antitheses." I understand the nature of the conflicts - satan vs christ, pre- and postlapsarian sexuality and behaviour, linguistic contrasts, satanic contrasts with the heavenly court, the changeability of satan an the intransigence of God, light and dark imagery and so on, but i'm not sure how this relates to the structue per se. Any advice?

Milton plunged into the "midst of things" and left the narrative of earlier events for the middle of the poem, creating a kind of symmetry, and balancing the first half which eminates from Satan's viewpoint with the second half favoring Adam's. An oversimplified view for the thesis you are assembling, but you gotta start somewhere.

203
Thanks for the insight on why Adam and Even garden eventhough God made it perfect... I am getting somewhere. Do you think that this could be linked somehow with the fertility of of the Garden?? Just looking for an "out of box" thought for this paper!

The garden is fertile - the deadly tree grows in the garden - the tree can (before God mitigated their sentence) cause the death of Adam and Eve, bringing their fertility, and the human race, to an end. How's that?

202
Do you think Milton wrote PL as a "learn by example" story to sway the readers from sin or do you think he was just telling an interesting story? Anytime I begin to analyze the free will concept of the story, Calvinist doctrine always stops me. Is there any way to explain free will in PL without having to account for Calvinism? I don't believe in it, but I cannot refute it.

To your first question, probably both.

Milton started out as a Calvinist but ultimately rejected the doctrine. Calvinism or predestination doesn't carry much weight in Paradise Lost. Milton's God goes out of his way to validate free will. See Nos. 169, 64, 35.

201
Where in the book, can I find evidence that eve is Milton's human secondary? In other words, that Eve is not equal to Adam

A lot of it comes from Eve's own lips (despite a few feistier moments) [See iv.440-448 and ix.378-383]. While Adam converses with Raphael [Book VIII] and Michael [XI], Eve willingly retires to let the men talk. God also defines her place [x.144-156]. See also iv.209 and Nos. 145, 133, 28 below.

But you have to remember the Bible had already fixed Eve's station, and Milton couldn't have done a whole lot to lift her up even if he wanted to, without going heretical.

200
heh, heh. Love it! Keep on sockin it to the slackers. Good job. Keep rockin and keep me laughing.

199
Are there autobiographical allusions in "Paradise Lost'? For one, The harsh speach given by Adam in (10.898-908) seems as if it was influenced by Milton's personal relationships with past women. How could Adam give a speach so contrasting to his past verbally expressed feelings towards his wife? Also, Milton Phsycological state has many times been said to be confusing and shaky. He was blind, had problems with women, and just didn't seem to fit in with the norms of society. Is it possible that subconsciessly Milton favored "Satan" because he was the "bad angel," who just wanted to be different and not conform to society? He related with Satan? Please reply as soon as possible because I am in the middle of writing a 7 pg. AP Literature Research paper due on the 5th of May. Thank you for any ideas you can supply me with.

I can't add much to your thesis, except to play devil's advocate (no pun) which may not help, but couldn't hurt.

Adam's change is simply due to eating the fruit. But there are two ways to look at it. A) The fruit was magical, and poisoned the minds, hearts and souls of Adam and Eve. Or, B) The effect was psychological. Knowing they had sinned, panic and guilt set in. First, there was denial, as they "swam in mirth." Then the truth hit, and as in the placebo effect of medication, they "changed."

Be careful about equating Milton with his Satan. I tend to believe the 'Satan as hero' trap is one any writer would have fallen into who attempted to humanize the struggle between Satan and God.

Don't let this dissuade you from your path of reasoning, though. There's more than one way to skin an epic.

198
What is the child of Sin and Death called?

Okay this is really gruesome and not for the squeamish. They didn't have a child ... exactly. To find your answer read the editor's note at the bottom of this page.

197
Could you help me in reference to the concept of love before and after the fall of Adam and Eve. I was wondering about the use of tears. Before the fall Adam kisses Eves tears away and after the fall the tears water the earth as they mourn their sin.
comments = What type of value system do Adam and Eve have, and does it change after the fall?

Adam and Eve love in perfect innocence before the fall (supposedly), and afterwards experience tempestuous changes that ultimately lead to a stronger bond between them.

In a scene just before the fall, they have a mild dispute over the danger of separating, even briefly. Eve's striving for independence does not suggest perfect innocence, yet to us it seems preferable to mindless, wimpy submission.

Question 192 asks why gardening work is necessary in a perfect garden. As here, constructing perfection requires the incorporation of imperfect ingredients. Unmitigated perfection is ultimately boring. Was the Fall necessary to finalize the evolution of "perfect" human beings?

See also Nos. 133 & 28.

196
Any information on the place names in chapter two of paradise lost??? Send any info to *****@hotmail.com

Well, I'm not about to read the whole chapter hunting out names you might possibly be referring to--got housework to do. Try again, and be specific.

195
Eden is suppose to be perfected nature, so why do Adam and Eve garden? Their "task" is even so big that Eve suggests splitting up their work to be more productive. Why all the work in paradise? Is this somehow a statement of man's purpose?

Not his purpose exactly, just the paradoxical nature of perfection--see comment No. 192.

194
Hi!, my name is Kim, I kind of wonder if you guy could help me out with this... I have a report that I need to do though, it's do on on friday. My teacher want me to write a judgment concerning about John Milton works (ex. as Paradise Lost) He also wnat to no the anyalysis of the merits and fault. and exploere major themes, and discuss the literary impact of the piece of literature.

My sympathies, Kim. That's a lot for one week, let alone one day, but here are some tips.

Merits/Faults - See 96
Major themes - See 167, 51
Literary impact - See 151, 157
Also look up essay writing in the index.

193
How did Milton compare Paradis Lost to the Bible?

See Nos. 102 & 72.

192
If Eden is perfected nature, why do Adam and Eve work to improve it?

Good question. Even bigger and better than you think. Because it goes beyond Paradise Lost, into the very nature of life. What good is a perfect world if there's nothing for you to do? Sure, you could sunbathe and play tennis. But if you analyze these and all other recreational or pleasurable experiences, you will find they are based upon a natural or manufactured need or challenge or imperfection, and the pleasure comes from the action of meeting the challenge, or satisfying or eliminating the need. In fact this is the only way to get pleasure. And once the need is satisfied, thereby ending the process, the pleasure ceases. Rest is only pleasurable if you are tired, and the tastiest food is unpalatable if you have no appetite. And yes, it's corny to say but, if not now, someday you will agree: There is no greater pleasure than accomplishment through hard work.

If this sounds like a paradox, it's because it is, as is all of life, and certainly all of Paradise Lost. See No. 74. (or should I say 'Paradox Lost'?)

191
What was the story's view on mankind

Michael tells of man's tendency to corruption. [Books XI & XII], but it's Adam and Eve who literally represent all of mankind in PL. They were weak enough to make a super blunder, but in the end showed strength and promise. Perhaps the moral is to pick yourself up and move on, even if you can't entirely undo the damage of your mistakes.

God said, man fell because he was deceived, therefore he shall find grace and mercy. [iii.129-134]

The Son said, their prayers of repentance show the grace you endowed them with bears fruit. [xi.22-30]

God said, yeah but I know how changeable he can be. I wouldn't be surprised if he helped himself to another one of those apples. So out of Paradise he goes. [xi.90-96]

190
I was happy I was finally get the book, Paradise Lost: The Novel. (A Barnes & Noble store told me they could not order it for me which I know is not true) It is a beautifully designed book in antique style and once I started reading it I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend it to anyone who is having difficulty understanding the original. In my opinion the language used is just as beautiful as the original, but more understandable. Thank you.

189
whose sin was great, according to milton? adam or eve? email me at *****@aol.com. thank you.

Both were great. If you mean -er, see No. 108.

By the way, to all of you out there in rush rush land, if you take the time to read your entry before you hit the send button, you can fix your mistakes. I know--I tried it!

188
according to paradise lost how did the 6th day begin?

"With Ev'ning Harps and Matin*" [vii.449]

But that's not the answer you want, is it? You've been here before (No.173) and I'm still at a loss as to what you are asking. Please try again. You've got me curious.

(*Matin: morning prayers)

187
is heaven portrayed little bit more fun in book 3? because in books 1-2, hell is whole lot more interesting...
comments = this is the same guy who asked a question about book 3 in the past...can you Explain thhe parrallels in book 3? thanks.

And this is the same guy who answered both questions in No. 131 (PL's heaven never fulfills the term "fun", but it's most beautiful description is in Book V, lines 616-657.)

186
How close does the novel stay to the original text?

The poem was adapted into a novel the same way a novel is made into a movie. Changes were made to suit the new form. Some elements were omitted, and a few new things added. Also, Milton's flashback technique was eliminated and the story told in straight chronological order.

We could have produced a literal, line by line translation (which would have been very welcome to despairing students) but it wouldn't have made for very enjoyable reading. We opted for the latter result.

185
What is the signignificance of all the circle imagery? Is there a larger meaning than just completeness? Also I am wondering about the use of circular imagery with reflections (when eve sees herself in the lake and when she sees herself in adam).

You seem to have some insight which goes beyond ours. The angels at the celebration in heaven are described as radiating in concentric circles about the holy mount (and standing around the buffet. [v.631] ) Other than this, examples don't come to mind--nor any special significance. I can't find mention of circular ripples in Eve's lake, and I don't know what you mean by seeing herself in Adam.

If you wish to write again and clarify, we'll try to be more helpful.

184
What are the strongest allusions in Paradise Lost? please contact me. <*****@hotmail.com>

Our first glimpse of Satan in the lake of fire: [i.195-208] ... the huge sea-monster Leviathan, which the Norwegian sailors mistook for an island.

The beaten angels scattered across the lake: [i.301-311] ...autumn leaves in the brooks of Vallombrosa (a tree covered valley in Florence) and Pharaoh's chariots that pursued the Hebrews and were washed away when Moses' parted sea enfolded them.

The assembly of fallen angels: [i.573-587] ...the warriors of Troy and the Iliad, the knights of King Arthur, Charlemagne, Orlando Furioso, etc. (not to mention the many allusions to all the future false gods of earth they would become [i.381-521])

Pandemonium, Satan's palace: [i.692-730] ...Babylon, Egypt, and ancient palaces of the underworld.

The smells of Eden: [iv.153-171] ...sailing by the Cape of Good Hope, Mozambique (of Portugal), Arabia, and the myth of Tobias, wherein an angel instructed him to burn fish to ward off a demon--Milton points out the delicious aromas of Paradise had the opposite effect on Satan.

The food of Eden: [v.331-349] ...compares to that of 'India East or West' (tropical Asia and tropical America) and the 'Punic Coast'--the southern shore of the Black Sea, where fish were a Roman delicacy.

Paradise: [iv.264-283] ...where Pan, god of nature, brought perpetual spring, plus a host of mythological references to gardens, springtime, and the fertile earth.

The abode of Adam and Eve: [iv.705-719] ...more secluded than those of the nymphs and fauns, with Eve compared to Pandora, in beauty and 'in sad event' (See No. 97).

Eve departs from Adam's side carrying her gardening tools, his last look at her before she loses her innocence: [ix.385-396] ...Diana, who led her wood-nymphs in the hunt, and Ceres, who taught men to raise crops.

183
Can Milton be considered an early feminist?

The guy who wrote the response to No.28 doesn't seem to think so. But No.133 suggests the possibility.

182
For Paradise Lost: Discuss the representation of Pandemonium, from the standpoint of its relation to Heaven and to earth in time to come. Be specific, cite evidence in the text.

The architect of Pandemonium, Satan's palace, had formerly designed structures in heaven [i.730]. The dignitaries who inhabit this hall are also former high ranking heavenly spirits and will become the future false gods of earth, in Egypt, ancient Rome, etc. (the White House was not mentioned) The list is long--from line 356 to 521, Book I.

181
why would anyone buy your book* from you at full price when Amazon.com has it for almost half the price?

Fuzzy math. But yes, there is a considerable discount at Amazon and we encourage you to take advantage of it. Remember the order will be much slower though since they do not stock it and must order from a distributor who also does not stock it and must in turn order from the publisher. Occasionally Amazon gives up and temporarily discontinues the book altogether, although it remains in print. But if your lucky you may find a used copy at an even bigger discount. (Don't tell anybody but some libraries even have it.)

* Paradise Lost: The Novel by Joseph Lanzara

180
why was satan admired in the beginning and ytowards the end you admire christ?

Who you admire and why is a personal thing. It's true that any sympathies with Satan come earlier in the story in his conflict with God. Later we take the side of Adam and Eve against him. But Christ--a.k.a. Messiah or the Son of God--comes off well throughout the epic--as self-sacrificing Savior of mankind [Book III], warrior-defender of heaven [Book VI], Creator [Book VII], and finally merciful Judge [Book X].

179
Our Bible Study group at St. John's Lutheran Church (Parkville, MD) is planning on using Milton's Paradise Lost as a class project soon. the data you have in the Internet, would be VERY help as an aid to our study. How do we obtain copyright permission to use the New Arts Library Study Aid?

Ken Layer Member of Class
*****@aol.com

You are free to print and distribute, for study purposes within your group, any material related to Paradise Lost from the "www.paradiselost.org" site. You may not charge money for this distribution. We only request that you include the named source, New Arts Library.

178
How did John Milton use the Bible to interpret Paradise Lost

I think you've got it backwards. He used Paradise Lost to interpret the Bible. See 34 & 72.

177
Who do you think is the real hero in this story? Why do you think so?
comments = how is satan looked at as a hero?
comments = I have to do an essay on the heroism of satan and i'm lost!
comments = can you characterize SATAN as a trajic hero ?

Another amazing coincidence? or one person cleverly disguising his style and submitting at different times of day to throw us? Either way--you or you all--are not trying very hard. You can find much on 'Satan as hero' using the index.

176
you guys are awesome!!! thanks :)

175
Is there a new version to the epic?

Well, there is the novel, isn't there. Maybe 1994 isn't "new" to you? Compared to 1667 it is.

174
Could any one knowing some good info on john milton and his works please send it too *****@yahoo.com for use in a high school project. 4-20-99

We don't publish email addresses. Where did you come from anyway? Couldn't've been www.paradiselost.org - That would be like submitting a question to Amazon.com asking if they know where there's any good books for sale.

173
When did the 6th day begin?

At the conclusion of the 5th. (Sorry, but I really don't know what you want.)

172
Can I get a summary of this story please?
comments = what is this epic poem about ( a brief summary)

You got it. By popular request, a brand new hot off the press page here.

171
Can someone please help me... I need a good answer for what the relationship between God and His Son was like in Book lll.

They liked each other a lot. [lines 138-142]

Their thoughts are in sinc completely about the fate of man, and need not be uttered, but they verbalize them question & answer style to educate the angels (and us)--and fulfill Milton's poetic purpose. [150-172]

In typically idealized father-and-son fashion, the Son will do anything to please his Father [262-265], and the Father is bursting with pride in his Son [305-311], their mutual goal being to help man out of the terrible mess they foreknow he will get himself into before the poem is over.

170
I need e-commentaries from published critics/authors on the imagery of light and dark in Milton's PARADISE LOST.

Lots of luck. Critics and authors who get published rarely give their work away for free on the net.

Look up "light & dark" in the archives index.

169
describe "Free Will" in Paradise Lost please

Better yet, I'll let God describe it to you: iii.94-128; v.230-245; viii.633-643.

168
In line 392, I had a difficult time deciphering the significance and meaning of the phrase "Guiltless of fire had formed, or angels brought." Does this statement describe her tools or her?

In Book IX, the complete phrase is:
...tools as art yet rude, guiltless of fire had formed, or angels brought.

The phrase describes her tools, but art refers to Eve's rude (rudimentary) craftsmanship in forming them. Guiltless here means without experience--in other words, her skills did not include knowledge of the use of fire to make tools. Milton's multi-layered poetry is also suggesting association with the "guilt" of Prometheus' act of bringing fire to earth, and consequently, as the myth goes, the Pandora's box full of evil. In this scene, Eve has not yet brought evil into the world through her sin.

The last part of the phrase tells us some of the gardening tools were brought to her by angels.

167
I was wondering what the theme of Paradise Lost is? Also, how does Milton illuminate and explicate this theme throughout Book 1.

Prepare yourself for a shock! . . .

Paradise Lost PAGE ONE, lines 1-5: Milton states the theme of Paradise Lost.
Paradise Lost PAGE TWO, lines 27-49: Milton illuminates and explicates the theme.

(also see No. 51)

166
Is there any way that The Fal could be clasified as a necessary evil? Doesn't Michael say something about Earth will be a happier place then Eden in Book XII?

Yes and yes. Read comment # 86 below.

165
does fire or ice symbolize hell better in paradise lost?

All of Book I is played out against the backdrop of hell's fiery landscape, before the devils renovate it to their taste. Later, as Satan embarks on his voyage to earth, the open gates of hell "like a furnace-mouth cast forth redounding smoke and ruddy flame." The icy region of hell is mentioned only briefly in Book II [lines 587-603].

Interestingly, Dante chose to construct the center of his Inferno out of ice. See No. 83.

164
What is ironic about how Satan is portrayed in Paradise Lost, and are there any good quotes to support this? THANKS

It is ironic that in a work intended to "justify the ways of God," Satan is regarded by so many as the most interesting--even sympathetic--character. You will find examples in his earlier speeches, but it is the overall portrayal, and the contrast with a sometimes less sympathetic God, that creates the irony.

Look up "Satan - hero" and "God - justify ..." in the index.

163
What does Satan represent in Paradise Lost

Something quite different from the monster of The Exorcist or The Omen, who got his kicks from inflicting pain and violence on people. [ix.282] This Satan represents the gentle enticement that led a man and woman to make the single mistake that brought down the whole human race.

162
Isn't it ironic that Satan, who attempted to overthrow his sovereign, is pictured this way?

Which way? Overthrow one's sovereign?--no irony in that. Lots of irony in PL, though. You need to clarify.

161
Hi, can u please tell me where in Paradise Lost does it let us know that Satan was one of God's favorite angels and that he was born high in station? thanks.

v.658-661

160
Thank you so much for your site. I am at a total lost with this paper I am supposed to write. Can you please help me with:
a) The nature and seductiveness of evil
b) Aspect of evil or good vs. evil
I am not supposed to give a plot summary and am at my wits end trying to figure where to start HELP ASAP please

If you have not done so, look up "good vs. evil" in the index.

Paradise Lost brings the 'forbidden fruit' cliché to life. You could analyze seductiveness in the temptation scene. See Nos. 225 & 77 for help.

Or if you want to stir up some controversy, try this. There can be evil without good; but there cannot be good without evil. Any disruption of the neutral state is negative. The return to neutrality is good--not the neutrality, only the process of returning. But you must have a negative to return from. We experience the pleasure of eating to eliminate the pain of hunger. After we accomplish this, we are then in a state of neutrality, experiencing neither pain nor pleasure. But to experience the pleasure of eating requires the pain of hunger. See No. 225, which asks, "Why do Adam and Eve have to work in a garden that is perfect?"

159
Hi,
Can you please tell me how i can elaborate on how Satan was a tragic hero in paradise lost. I know it is because he was born high adn cuz of his pride , but can u tell me where in teh poem can i can excerpts to put in my term paper....u talk about hero alot, but not tragic hero. Please please please.....if you think this is not importnat enough to take up space then please email me at Minny-xxxx@aol.com.....plllllleeeeeeaaaaaasssssseeeeeeeeee..........

Get hold of yourself, Minny.

It's only a homework assignment, your term paper, your education and whole future that's at stake.

You looked up "Satan as hero." Look up "tragedy," then put 2 and 2 together.

What makes a tragic hero is not only that he is the hero and comes to a tragic end, but that he brings it on himself, through his own human--or in Satan's case, superhuman--faults. And please get enough grip on your sanity to remember Satan is not really a hero, can never be a hero, he is the devil, and only assumes the perverse characterization of hero in Milton's poem because Milton humanized him. He had to. There is no way to construct a central literary character without endowing him with human characteristics, whether the creature is human, animal, superhuman, or the Brave Little Toaster.

Satan ruminates his own "tragic" descent in these excerpts: iv.32-113 and ix.99-178.

158
What type of argument can I form about how the visual arts and Paradise Lost are connected?

There is a wealth of art from past ages that draws upon the events and inhabitants of Eden for subject matter. A modest sampling can be found here.

157
Is Paradise Lost a Tragedy or a Romance. Based on one's view of Satan, you could go either way, but what are some reasons to think either way?

See No. 151. Even if you passingly accept the antihero as hero, the best you can say is that the early parts of the poem resemble romantic adventure. You'll need to discount a lot, though. Romance combines love and adventure in a light, melodramatic way. Here the lovers inhabit a separate world from the swashbuckler, both worlds laden with heavy issues.

156
Fascinating. The one objection I have about your websites is that they attempt to blur the distinction between Milton's great epic and your bastardized novel, which are clearly two very different animals, treating them as equals. One is a great classic masterpiece; the other is a trivialized bit of pop literature you are trying to promote. (I wonder if you will publish this comment.)

(They're on to us!)

155
Explain the symbolic importance of the crossroads that Satan faces in Book Three: the stairways that lead up to Heaven and down to Paradise.

They were not crossroads in the usual sense of a traveler having a choice between two paths. Satan was bound to his mission to earth, and the steps to heaven were there, Milton says, merely to taunt him, with no real access possible. At this "crossroads" Satan is much more in awe of the new universe that opens at his feet anyway, and in a state of mind to prefer this new adventure if he did have a choice.

So what's the symbolism? Illusion. A look back at the point of no return that has already been crossed. Choice that is really no choice. A view of what the future could have been, juxtaposed with the future that is. A graphic representation of Satan's own "paradise lost."

(By the way, there is no stairway down to Paradise in Milton's poem, Cliffs Notes notwithstanding.)

154
what was the moral lesson?

Adam states it, Wizard of Oz style, in Book XII, lines 552-573.

153
Was Milton completely blind when he wrote PL? Why did he go blind?

He was. He became completely blind at the age of 43. "Why" is a question only God can answer. How he went blind has not been established. Modern researchers do not agree on a diagnosis, although glaucoma is a likely cause.

But this amazing blind man produced one of the world's greatest literary masterpieces. He did it by dictating the lines to others, who transcribed them. He could not make notes, or review them. He had to keep everything in his head--everything.

This parallels the miraculous work of Beethoven, who was completely deaf when he wrote his greatest symphonies.

152
Is there a detailed illustration of the geographical location of Milton's Hell as portrayed in, "Paradise Lost"?

If you have any creative inclination, wouldn't it be fun to devise your own interpretive illustration based on the poem's description? Yeah, right, just what you wanted to hear from me. O.K., here is an interesting diagram of Milton's cosmos from an old edition of PL.

151
What is Satan's role in Paradise Lost? Is Paradise Lost a Romance or a Tragedy?

Satan's role is summarized in Nos. 80 & 72. For more on Satan, look him up in the index.

PL fits the classic definition of tragedy in that an unhappy ending is brought about by the moral weakness of the main characters. But tragedies are not without positive elements which can transcend the negative.

The ending of Paradise Lost is very moving. There is the tragic loss of Paradise, but simultaneously the birth of a new world--our world. You can feel the unsteady steps of the frightened couple as they leave the only home they know, yet with them goes all the hope and guidance brought by Michael.

150
Why is God considered less sympathetic than Satan?

Here's the problem. Here on earth we usually sympathize with uprisings against dictators. To Christians, however, God's benevolent "dictatorship" is unreproachable. That works for heavenly images of goodness and love, mysterious and incomprehensible. But as characters in his story, Milton transforms God and angels into palpable beings--humans with wings. Suddenly Satan sounds like any earthly proponent of "freedom".

The position of the underdog rebelling against a dictator resembles that of a hero, and would be, among humans, normally a sympathetic one. Heaven, however, is rightfully a benevolent dictatorship. But we are just not used to regarding the dictator as the good guy, especially one who we cannot sympathize or identify with in a dramatic setting because he is perfect and has no human qualities.

Literary character development requires inner struggle and change. God is perfect--he does not change and has no inner conflict. Satan, on the other hand, goes from high ranking angel to rebel leader to defeated failure to vengeful outcast, with (according to Milton) moments of regret and remorse along the way. There's obviously a lot to relate to there.

(No wonder some churches ban the poem.)

149
I am confused about what felix culpa is. Can you explain this to me please?

The phrase is Latin.
felix = lucky, fortunate, happy
culpa = fault, blame, (especially against chastity)
...thus: the "fortunate fall" - see No. 86.

148
Are these True or False

1.By corrupting Adam and Eve, Satan hopes to corrupt the whole human race.
2.Satan hope's to find eve alone in the garden is unrealized

1. Ah, a trick question! because if Adam and Eve will die before they reproduce, do they not then constitute the whole human race? Even Satan seems confused. Look up lines 381-385 and line 527 in Book IV.
2. Start reading at either line 412 or line 473 in Book IX and the answer will quickly emerge.

147
who is the hero of paradise lost

Deceptively simple question. And a subjective one. That means you have to decide. Here's a hint: The popular choices would be, alphabetically, Adam, Messiah, Satan. If you want to be unconventional, consider Raphael or Michael. If you want to be reverent, choose God, the Father. If you want to be politically correct, choose Eve. Trouble is, you've got to become pretty familiar with the overall poem to make your choice.

146
post Gene Michael Anderson's EXPLICATOR (1995) article concerning the war in heaven and the pun on the word "cannon."

Can't. Gene Michael Anderson might sue us for copyright infringement.

145
How does "Paradise Lost" portray Eve as a prototypical woman?

These days you will never see a TV movie with a Black crook unless there's also a Black judge or police chief. Ditto women. It's as if every movie is bound to be a cross section of politically correct prototypical ideals. It's a pretty sorry excuse for drama--except in Paradise Lost--the only story in the world where the characters are the one and only prototypical man and woman, no matter how you slice it.

That leaves this portrayal of woman open to, in my opinion, the only dramatic character portrayal legitimately entitled to feminist criticism. Every conceivable kind of woman exists in the world and you could write a story about any one, but only one--Eve--truly represents all women.

This may not answer your question, but I feel much better now.

See No. 98.

144
Are you aware of any videos that discuss PL or Milton himself? I'm a college faculty member and want to give my humanities students some background and visuals. TIA

No videos. For visuals, refer to The Iconography of Paradise Lost.

143
What is your opinion of how different Adam and Eve view virtue?

In Book IX, Adam wants to protect their virtuous state by sticking together to pool their strength--at least, that's what he says. But does he really view Eve as weak and vulnerable? Eve thinks virtue isn't worth much untested, which puts her in agreement with God (See Nos. 64 & 35 below). The serpent perverts her reasoning about virtue, which after tasting the fruit, becomes even more convoluted. Adam, distracted by his love for Eve, sees sharing her fate as a virtuous act, rather than the shattering mistake it turns out to be. Later, Eve sees self-destruction as an honorable solution, while Adam regards it as unvirtuous anguish and "pleasure overloved."

142
What were some of the main stances of Satan in book 2? What was Satan trying to convey here?

Not to give up the battle against heaven. That at least their position is relatively secure, for no one will want to challenge the throne of hell. And at the conclusion of the council, to glorify himself as their hero and savior who will single-handedly carry out their plan of revenge.

See also Nos. 50 & 131.

141
I am trying to write and argumentative paper comparing Satan's manipulation of Sin, his 'daughter/lover', to Satan's manipulation of Eve? Got any hints? Thanx.

Well, Satan certainly manipulates Eve, by insinuating himself into her dreams [iv.799 & v.26], and later by the world famous temptation. But I never thought of him as manipulating Sin. Perhaps you interpret his sweetness toward her at the exit of hell as a con to get her to open the gate? An unusual take. Later, he praises her construction of the bridge to earth, and sends her and Death forth with his blessing. It all seems sincere to me. After all, their goals are the same. Maybe you should reconsider the word "manipulation."

140
What are some figures of speech from PARADISE LOST that are particularly important? What are the personifictions?

Hard to find any that are not important. And hard to find a page without any. See #92. Milton's very elaborate personifications are, of course, Sin, Death, and Chaos. He also briefly personifies Grace and Liberty, Night [ii.961; vi.406], the Sun (male) and Moon (female), and, in an important line, Justice [iii.210 ]. Why not find some imagery that appeals to you.

139
Does the music have some relevance to Paradise Lost?

We try to keep in tone with the nature of the drama while providing a lot of variety. Admittedly, sometimes the limits are stretched a bit.

138
Hi. I am writing a paper on Book 10, and I need an argumentative topic, need less to say I am not sure what to write about. Any help is GREATLY appreciated.

Eve's supplication is cause for some controversy as handled by Milton in the last few pages of this chapter. She falls to her knees and begs Adam's forgiveness. Then winning his pity, she suggests they commit suicide as their only out, leaving Adam to admonish her. How do you feel about this pitiful representation of woman? Granted, the Bible renders woman secondary to man, but did Milton have to go this far?

137
What are some of the parallels between books 6 & 7?

In both, God sends forth his Son, Messiah, to accomplish a great mission. The first is a mission of war, to defeat the rebel angels and cast them out of heaven. The second is a mission of peace, to create a new world and new creatures that will eventually fill the space in heaven left by the fallen angels. In both, Messiah returns to his place in heaven, triumphant, where the angels sing his praises.

136
The fallen angels have lost heaven, but what do they still have?

They have hell, such as it is. They remain free to build a kingdom there. Read lines 249-283 in Book II.

They also have the freedom to visit this world as they choose and exert their influence here, thus they have their revenge. And when that's all you've got, you make the most of it, as conditions in this world can testify to.

Beginning at 356 in Book I, Milton spends several pages describing the future earthly incarnations of the highest of the fallen angels--as the false gods of Egypt, Greece and the ancient world.

135
I dont seem to understand the language in Paradise Lost, do you have any way of translating it in to modern language?

You're not alone. Got $24.95? Go get Paradise Lost: The Novel.

134
I am doing a paper on the fall of Adam and Eve. What are the psychological causes of the fall of Adam and Eve. What in respect to their characteristics makes them suseptible to fall? Which one is more suseptible to falling?

Eve is often portrayed as weaker, but her temptation was greater than Adam's, tempted as she was directly by the master of all evil. (See No. 108) But Milton also emphasizes Adam's susceptibility to Eve's charms. You can look at this two ways: A woman's sex appeal is a force as powerful as any devil--or, is it an indication of weakness in Adam? Eve faced Satan, but Adam was in double jeapardy--from both the devil and his wife.

To analyze the psychological causes of their fall, read the thoughts and speeches of each just before they give in to temptation. For example Eve mentions how the very forbidding of the fruit makes it more appealing [ix.753-755]--something so familiar to our experience that we have coined the phrase "forbidden fruit" to symbolize this effect.

Eve is characterized as feeling constrained by "narrow limits drawn by a foe" [ix.322]-- another contemporary theme manifest in our fenced domiciles, locked doors, and barred windows. Today's big city parks could be characterized as small paradise-like oases, which can also be dangerous places to be alone in. If one refuses to give up the right to freely roam the park, and as a result is assaulted, who do you blame?

133
HI I'm a junior in high school, and we are currently reading Paradise Lost. Everyone in the class received a book, and must teach their particular book to the class. I have book nine. This is one of the most important books in the novel, because the story becomes tragic. I was wondering if you could help me get some important themes, or questions, or anything that would help in my teaching. Thank you very much for your help.

This is the big one. The main theme in this chapter is choice and change--the worst choice ever made and the personal change from innocence to guilt.

Talk about the change which the act produces in Adam and Eve. Do the personality changes they experience come from some magical quality in the fruit, or would they have occurred between any two people involved in making a terribly bad choice? How closely do their reactions resemble, say, a boy and girl having an unprotected sexual encounter, then facing some very bad consequences.

In addition to her bout with the serpent, some interesting conflicts occur for Eve, such as when persuading Adam to let her leave his side for awhile, and later her quandary whether to share or not share with him the supposed power revealed in the fruit. Are these the seeds of woman's liberation?

Lots more ideas at 108, 59, 34, 28, & 3 below.

Also, look up "free will" in the index.

132
What role does food and eating play in Paradise Lost?

Ever hear of the forbidden fruit? (I've learned it's presumptuous to assume everyone has. For those who need some background, see #72 below.)

Also, the visit by Raphael in Book V, where he relates the story of the war in heaven, begins with a shared meal elaborately prepared by Eve. At this meal he discusses how angels eat. Later, in his story, he tells how the angels feasted in heaven [v.632].

Adam, in fallen state, seduces Eve with language playfully equating food with sex [ix.1017-1033]. In hell, the devils are punished with trees that spring up resembling the forbidden Tree of Knowledge. They are overcome with irresistible hunger, but the fruit turns to bitter ashes in their mouths [x.548].

131
In book 3...can you tell me what are the specific parallels and contants between the action in Heaven and the Son's decision with Hell and Satan's volunteering? (with line #s in the poem if possible) And which is more fun, Heaven or Hell, again, in book 3 of Paradise lost??

Parallel: Both volunteer while the masses hang back [ii.417-429] = [iii.217-226]

Contrast: Satan uses his volunteerism to glorify himself and intimidate the others [ii.465-477] while the Son's first consideration is to please his Father. [iii.266-273]

continued . . . Hi, i forgot to add a little thing in my last question...in book 3, the question which place is more fun, heaven or hell, and WHY?...thanks...this will be such a BIG help!!!

Hell is always more fun than heaven--in any book of PL or anyplace else for that matter (as long as you're on the outside looking in)--particularly in reverent depictions as in PL. Satirical scenes in heaven can be fun, but there is no way to interestingly portray unvarying bliss, love, peace, and (yawn) benevolence. The only fun in heaven in PL comes when Satan raises hell there.

130
What is some examples of Puritans style of life throughtout the poem

Well, there are no indications of severe discipline, hard work, frugality, or democratic church government. No penalties for drunkenness or games of chance, no prohibition of theatrical performances. Adam and Eve did offer morning and evening prayers. Is that a Puritan custom? I don't know.

Milton was a Puritan, which was something very different than our American Puritans. Back then Puritanism meant having politically radical views. And at one point Milton was actually jailed for recording them on paper.

Above all, PL is a series of arguments put forth by the characters, which in turn ultimately expresses Milton’s personal truth. It is, in that sense, a Puritanical work.

129
What passages invite you to react positively to Satan

In perhaps his most sympathetic moment, his voice cracks as he is choked with emotion, standing before his assembly of wretched, war-torn followers who are looking to him as their last hope [i.619].

128
What Passages show Milton undercutting Satans heroic ambition and courage!

In Book IV, he leaps the wall of Paradise as "a prowling wolf...or...a thief into God's fold," then, jealously spying on Adam and Eve, plots their destruction with ruthless cunning.

127
Why did Milton present Satan in this way!

See Nos. 9 and 29, and--in reference to the above three questions--especially for you: No. 113.

126
how does paradise lost redifine authority?

hey hey...wrote earlier...must do a paper and would appreciate direction to better understanding about how PL redifines authority...Thanx!

So would I. I suspect your instructor gave you a little more to go on than that, because, as stated, I don't know what you're/he's/she's getting at.

125
I'm really confused about Paradise Regained. Is it just about the temptations that Satan uses with Jesus? What are they?

When Jesus fasts in the wilderness, Satan offers him a feast. Ultimately he offers him all the kingdoms of the world, if Jesus will "fall down, and worship me as thy superior lord."

You're not confused, just disappointed, as anyone is who expects a sequel to Paradise Lost. It is not a sequel but a different kind of poem entirely--didactic rather than action-oriented. Critics agree that if it had been composed by some other poet, and not subject to the comparison with PL, it would be more widely hailed as a great work.

124
I was told not to trust the information in cliff notes? what do you think?

So glad you asked. When Satan lands on the surface of the globe which is our universe he finds a stairway to heaven (just like in the song) and at its base, an opening through which he sees the stars and planets of our universe contained in the globe. (In the poem "world" means universe.) See Book III, lines 526-543.

Cliffs Notes--the fabulous Cliffs Notes--says on page 25: "Corresponding to the steps up to Heaven is a broad stairway down to Paradise" . . . Wrong, Cliff, Milton doesn’t mention any stairway down to Paradise.

Conclusion: Trust, but Verify.

123
WHAT WAS THE TWO THINGS HE ACCOMPLISHED IN WRITING THIS EPIC POEM?

I'll tell you Milton's two stated goals.

1. To "leave something so written to aftertimes, as they should not willingly let it die."

2. To "justify the ways of God to men."

We all know he accomplished at least one of them.

122
What part of Satan's speech in Book I would appeal to Frankenstein's creation?

None of it. Possibilities in Book IV, though.

121
In the beginning of PL Adam and Eve are symbolicly holding hands. Ehne Eve chooses to walk away from Adam she lets go of his hands and "soft she withdrew,...(IX.386). In the end of Book XII, they walk arm in aram to face their lives together. Through out PL the phrase is used and I thought a connection between their choices and their holding of hands would be an interesting one to write about. But I am having a hard time making 12 pages out of this. I start out with their separate falls, go into the product of their choices, shame, selfishness, lies etc. and I want to convey how they are also physically separated because of their choices until the end when they repent and arm in arm walk into their new world. Hate to keep bothering youwith this, but I am really having a writer's block about connecting these two successfully. Thank you again.

There is a point well before the end where Adam 'chooses' to forgive Eve. It's not too much of a stretch to read "upraised" to mean both emotionally and physically with his hands [x.945]. (When Eve found Adam's hands not open to her she tried his feet [x.909].)

You have outlined your concept of hands as a unifying symbolic element that underscores the pair's choices quite well. To fill your 12 pages you may want to explore and analyze Milton's layered language in greater detail in those lines that illustrate your theme.

One hint about combating writer's block: . . . Write. Seriously. Write anything--no matter how bad it feels--then rewrite it. Good writing doesn't materialize on white sheets--it comes through the process of rearranging disjointed paragraphs, editing, and gradually making bad sentences less bad.

120
Hi, I just wanted to brush up on my paper which is about intemperance being the true sin, since the act breeds sin. I'm writing about sex and intemperance specifically. I have approx. 12 pages finished, but can you list some ambiguous or somthing not too obvious on sex and intemperance?

What's obvious to one is not so obvious to another. To me, it's not intemperance that is the problem with sex, it's whether you're married or not. There's no speed limit within the married state, but one small indiscretion can result in disaster--morally, legally, socially, hygienically, psychologically, and financially. (Your spouse won't like it either.)

In Paradise Lost sexual intemperance is not a plot element. Rather, Milton stresses the difference between love and passion [viii.588] and uses A & E's passion immediately after the fall to symbolize their degraded state.

So throw away those twelve pages and start again. Just kidding. I'm sure you can squeeze out a paragraph or two cleverly intertwining the implications of passion and intemperance.

119
Hi! thanks for giving us folks a reason to be lazy.(i hope you do answer this though) I was wondering, why do some people believe Milton is a feminist? or a puritan? ( i mean, he did have multiple wives in his lifetime nor does he condemn premarital sex for one obvious thing) And, this whole felix cupa point I think really can't override being an angel, am i missing somthing important? it seems so apparent, if you had no pain, you may not be wise, but then again you'd be ignorant of it too. the true question,it seems like is if you want to be wise but realize you can never get all that you want in life versus having what you need and want ignorant of what's out there. if you can't have it why stress? Maybe this is a stupid point, but then again, if I knew enough, i wouldn't be writing this. by the way, you don't have to answer t his, but who are you? It seems like you're a walking Milton dictionary.

Well, you're not lazy about writing long questions are you? Anybody who considers Milton a feminist didn't get that view from his Eve. He was a Puritan with a capital P--not necessarily "puritanical" as in today's parlance. In PL, Adam and Eve do not have premarital sex; they are married by God as soon as they meet. After this your inquiry gets real fuzzy. (Felix Cupa?--never met the guy.)

I think what you're saying is, why weren't Adam and Eve content with what they had, which was all so fine. Why did they reach for some vague, unknown prize of wisdom or whatever, risking everything in so doing. A) They are exhibiting absolutely normal "grass is greener on the other side" human nature. B) There would be no story if they hadn't. C) Looking at it through today's eyes, there is little in modern culture which lauds blind obedience or complacence, and every admiration for curiosity and enterprise. Who can resist Eve's plea: "If this be our condition, to dwell in narrow limits drawn by a foe, then perhaps he has already gained his hoped success." It doesn't jive, does it. But then paradox is one of the ingredients which make PL a great tale.

Since you give your permission to skip the last question, I'll take it.

(Check felix culpa in the index)

118
cool site

117
Hello again, I want to thank you for all your help. This is a great site and you're brilliant. I have yet another question for you: How could I connect the element ofchoice and the 'hand in hand' motif? I see a connecton but am having a hard time puting my thoughts in words. Thanks again!

Not brilliant enough. May I ask you a question? What is the 'hand in hand' motif? If you answer mine, I'll answer yours.

116
One of the difficulties Rahael has in telling Adam about war in heaven [Books V&VI]is the inability to find human language and metaphors to describe spiritual reality. How does he attempt to solve this problem? What strength and/or weaknesses do you see in his attempt?

See No. 115.

115
-Book III is very theological and "Pauline"--it repeats arguments St. Paul makes in his epistles, particularly Romans and Corinthians. What is the Father's defense of his innocence in regard to the coming of evil into the word? What is your reaction?

See No. 114

114
When Adam and Eve are trying to decide whether they should work together or apart on their first morning in a Satan inhabited Garden, they "argue" from two very different views of what virtue is. What are these views? What is your own evaluation of their difference of opinion.

See No. 113.

113
Many readers have found Satan to be the most compelling figure in Paradise Lost. What does Milton do to create this response? What, if anything, does he do to counter-balance the nobility of Satan?

These four question-packs are clearly submitted by one and the same, and obviously copied verbatim from your given assignment.

Most of your collection of topics is addressed, to varying degrees, in about a dozen different places below. And that's all you're gonna get from me.

The purpose of this question and answer page is to boost you over the rough spots in a difficult study topic and spark your imagination, not become your accomplice in all out cheating.

112
Thanks for your explanation of the poetic style of PL. Can you also explain the language - why is he so difficult to understand? Any clues?

Milton's style is strongly influenced by Latin. His sentences do not follow the structure we are used to. For example you will often find the direct object placed before the verb.

She, as a veil down to the slender waist,
Her unadorned golden tresses wore
[iv.302]

Milton's sentences are long, again as in Latin, with phrase after modifying phrase. If you separate the clauses and phrases it will help you to decipher the message.

Then there are the words. Since we are in a 17th Century context, sometimes even annotations don't help. If all else fails, there's that old standby, the dictionary. Sometimes words you think you know will have other, rare or archaic uses. And Milton is famous for finding them.

These, lulled by nightingales, embracing slept,
And on their naked limbs the flowery roof
Showered roses, which the morn repaired. . .
[iv.771]

After 'fix', Webster's second definition of 'repair' is 'renew' - in other words, after the roses shed their petals on the sleeping couple, the next morning they grew back again.

That's how things were in Paradise.

111
After eating the forbidden fruit, did Eve and Adam make love?

Had sex, is more like it. Adam and Eve were married by God and enjoyed conjugal lovemaking with his blessing in their innocent state. In Milton's version, after eating the fruit, however, something came over them which changed their behavior in all ways.

See comments Nos. 59, 40, 34, 28 below.

110
thanks for this awsome page it has offered great insight to my knowledge of Paradise Lost. please for an annitative essay help provide some sources for the answer of the question: Why Satan needed to be portrayed as he is by Milton in Paradise lost? p.s. if you know any other good thesis topics about anything the text offers please feel free to give some ideas.

Villains are important to any story, so it's not surprising that the most important villain there ever was would tend to upstage everybody else in the book. Check out these Nos. below: 87, 31, 9.

Some other interesting PL subjects have come up at: 100, 74, 71, 66, 50, 23.

109
what reason does Satan give for God's victory over him?

When the devils regroup in hell after their defeat, Satan addresses them with a rousing speech. In it, he accuses God of a dirty trick, which caused their fall. The sentence is at i.637-642, and it's Satan's weakest and most pitiful "sour grapes" argument of all his otherwise powerful early speeches.

108
I am writing a research paper for an upper english course. We read Paradise Lost and I need to write about the dichotoy of the falls of Adam and Eve and the element of choice in the epic.

(He means dichotomy, folks.)

Though Eve holds the onus of being the first sinner and Adam's lure, general theology grants that she underwent heavier temptation, by the devil himself, while Adam merely succumbed to female charms. PL supports this by Satan's elaborate temptation speech, and by Adam's earlier portentous admission that Eve has him so spellbound that anything she says or do