Paradise Lost by John Milton

Paradise Lost by John Milton, first published in 1667, is one of the greatest epic poems in the English language. Written in magnificent blank verse, it retells the biblical story of the Fall of Man — the rebellion of Satan, the temptation of Adam and Eve, and humanity’s expulsion from the Garden of Eden. At once a theological exploration and a profound work of art, it combines grandeur of language with deep philosophical and moral insight. Synopsis The poem opens with Satan and his fallen angels cast into Hell after their failed rebellion against God. Refusing to repent, Satan declares his famous defiance: “Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven.” He then plots to corrupt God’s newest creation — humankind. Disguised as a serpent, Satan enters Eden, where Adam and Eve live in innocence and harmony. Through cunning temptation, he persuades Eve to eat the forbidden fruit from the Tree of Knowledge, leading Adam to do the same. Their disobedience brings sin, death, and suffering into the world. Yet, Milton ends with a sense of redemption and hope — humanity may fall, but through divine mercy and perseverance, it can rise again. Key Themes & Features

• Free Will vs. Predestination: Explores the tension between divine omniscience and human choice.
• Good vs. Evil: A cosmic struggle between obedience and rebellion, light and darkness.
• Pride and Ambition: Satan’s fall mirrors humanity’s own moral weaknesses.
• Love and Obedience: Examines the nature of pure love, temptation, and the consequences of disobedience.
• Heroism and Tragedy: Satan’s complex portrayal as both villain and tragic antihero.

Why Read It?

• A cornerstone of Western literature, blending theology, philosophy, and poetic brilliance.
• Offers some of the most powerful imagery and language ever written in English verse.
• Provides deep insight into human nature, sin, and redemption.
• Essential for readers interested in literary history, biblical interpretation, and moral philosophy.

Paradise Lost is a timeless meditation on freedom, temptation, and the human condition — a work that continues to challenge, inspire, and provoke readers with its vision of the eternal battle between good and evil.