Biblical Elements in John Milton’s Paradise Lost

The Bible has become a rich source of inspiration for great creators who have embraced its themes in an artistic way. One of the most famous of them is John Milton, with his epic poem 'Paradise Lost'. This work has profoundly influenced not only literature but also our understanding of biblical stories.

Biblical Themes in John Milton's Paradise Lost

'Paradise Lost' is an epic poem published in 1667 by the English author John Milton, which is considered one of the most important works in English literature. Written in blank verse and consisting of 12 parts, 'Paradise Lost' harmoniously combines the use of metaphors and vivid comparisons. In doing so, Milton refreshes the biblical story of the fall of Adam and Eve. In "Paradise Lost," Milton transforms the story of man's creation and his expulsion from paradise into a spectacular narrative, where "even in hell, it is worth to reign, because it is better to reign in hell than to be ruled." Here, Milton intricately weaves Adam's love story, philosophical reflections on life, faith, and purpose, as well as a vivid description of the war between angels and demons, declaring, "Be in suffering, in battle, - woe to the weak."

The Character of Satan

One of the most talked-about characters in this poem is Satan. Contrary to the biblical original, this character is endowed with human qualities, being incredibly powerful and intelligent. Satan rebels against God to gain authority and self-assertion, but despite his defeat, he does not give up and decides to take revenge on humanity, shaping the destinies of Adam and Eve. Here, faith in the Almighty God the Father is embodied; He sees the Devil's plans but does not intervene directly, as He foresees that all events will lead to the supreme good. Contrary to the Bible, Adam and Eve are not only forbidden from the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge but are also warned of Satan's plans. For this reason, their fall into sin seems like a conscious decision that they make despite the warning.

The Role of Eve and the Angels

Eva, the heroine, by her intelligence, manages to manipulate Adam. Angels Raphael and Michael play active roles in the book. They serve as mentors to the human couple. However, their depictions are somewhat flat because they are perfect and do not provoke much sympathy or admiration. Despite strict adherence to the biblical canon, Milton succeeds in depicting life and issues relevant to modern society. At the same time, paradise is described as a 'Utopia', led by a wise and caring ruler and his faithful angels. Based on the rich experience of family life, Milton describes the marriage of the first humans, presenting Adam as the ideal father and husband who deeply loves his wife. Eva (in Milton's understanding) is portrayed as the root of all family problems, "But everywhere I saw the same source of all human evil - women!"

Conclusion

Indeed, the poem 'Paradise Lost' represents a treasure of the English language, a source of knowledge, life, and the absolute. It expresses the contrast and struggle between truth and deception, between good and evil, between the strong and the weak, and between the past and the future. The poem claims its undeniable value through its content, perpetuated over the years.

References

• Milton, J. (1667). Paradise Lost. London: Samuel Simmons.
• Bloom, H. (Ed.). (2007). John Milton's Paradise Lost. New York: Chelsea House Publishers.
• Forsyth, N. (2003). The Satanic Epic. Princeton: Princeton University Press.
• Martz, L. L. (1962). Milton: Poet of Exile. Yale University Press.
• Rajan, B. (1947). Paradise Lost and the Seventeenth Century Reader. Chatto & Windus.