Paradise Lost

             "Paradise Lost" by John Milton is considered as the greatest epic poem in the English language. In words remarkable for their richness of rhythm and imagery, Milton tells the story of Man's creation, fall and redemption - to "justify the ways of God to men" (I, 26). But even where a single theme is stated, others can be considered as well – perhaps as a variation of the central idea. As integration to the content of this course, the following critical analysis will analyze the theme of dualities in "Paradise Lost". It is not difficult for readers to recognize the connection between the theme of duality in the form of Hells and Heaven or God versus Satan. It is also interesting to analyze the theme of duality within the character of Satan himself, the transformation of Satan from the heroic rebel to the envious, frustrated, and finally defeated victim of his own ambitions.
             Among all the characters in the poem, the reader is immediately intrigued by Milton's portrait of Satan. In fact, it is not surprising that some would consider Satan as the hero or protagonist of the story, because like a typical protagonist in an epic genre, he struggles to overcome his own doubts and weaknesses, he appeals to us with his human failings and longings, and he wins, at first, our admiration with his rebelliousness. Satan is also more complex and interesting than many of the other characters. Unlike the infallible God, Satan experiences changes and internal strife. He cuts a grand and majestic figure, unafraid of eternal damnation and unfazed by such terrifying circumstances as Chaos or Death. It was he who first awakened his legions of overwhelmed angels with "bold words that breaking the horrid silence" (I, 84), directed a powerful speech to them by saying, "Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven." (I, 263), and comforted them with hope yet of regain
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Paradise Lost. (1969, December 31). In MegaEssays.com. Retrieved 09:14, March 29, 2024, from https://www.megaessays.com/viewpaper/85692.html