Paradise Lost by John Milton 

By. Ahmed Dakhil Abed. (PhD) 

Paradise Lost by John Milton is one of the most significant works in English literature. Published in 1667, this epic poem tells the story of humanity’s fall from grace, addressing themes of free will, temptation, sin, and redemption. Written in blank verse, Paradise Lost consists of twelve books and explores profound theological, philosophical, and moral questions through its vivid characters and grand narrative. 

 The poem begins with Satan and his rebel angels being cast out of Heaven after their failed attempt to overthrow God. Satan, defiant and filled with pride, vows to continue his battle against God by corrupting God’s new creation: humankind. Satan and his followers are banished to Hell, where they plot their revenge. God, knowing of Satan’s intent, warns the newly created world and gives Adam and Eve, the first humans, the gift of free will, allowing them to choose obedience or disobedience. Adam and Eve live in the idyllic Garden of Eden, where they are free from sin, but they are also vulnerable to temptation.

The archangel Raphael visits Adam and Eve, telling them the story of Satan’s rebellion and warning them to remain obedient to God. He explains how Satan, once a high-ranking angel, grew prideful and sought to rival God, ultimately leading to his expulsion from Heaven. Despite these warnings, Satan enters Eden disguised as a serpent. He successfully tempts Eve to eat the forbidden fruit from the Tree of Knowledge, promising her that it will make her as wise as God. Eve then convinces Adam to eat the fruit as well, leading to their fall. Their disobedience brings immediate consequences: they become aware of their nakedness, feel shame, and experience a loss of innocence.

As a result, Adam and Eve are cast out of Eden by the archangel Michael. However, before their departure, Michael shows them a vision of the future, including the eventual redemption of humanity through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Though Adam and Eve are expelled from Paradise, they are given hope through the promise of salvation.

 Paradise Lost is a rich and complex work known for its grand style, deep theological insights, and vivid characters. Milton’s portrayal of Satan, often seen as a tragic anti-hero, has had a lasting impact on literature and culture. The poem’s exploration of free will, the problem of evil, and the nature of sin and redemption has made it a timeless work for study and reflection. Milton’s use of blank verse is also notable, as it gives the poem a lofty, dignified tone, fitting for the grand themes and epic scope. The poem has influenced countless works of literature, philosophy, and theology, from later poets like William Blake and John Keats to modern interpretations of the story of Adam and Eve.

Conclusion:

Paradise Lost is not only a retelling of the biblical story of the fall of man but also a profound meditation on human nature, divine justice, and the complexities of free will. Through its portrayal of Satan’s rebellion, the fall of Adam and Eve, and the promise of redemption, Milton’s epic raises timeless questions about the nature of good and evil, the consequences of choice, and the possibility of salvation. With its rich language and philosophical depth, Paradise Lost remains one of the greatest works in English literature and continues to be a cornerstone of literary study and interpretation.