Satan as the Hero in John Milton's "Paradise Lost"

Term Paper , 2017 , 14 Pages , Grade: 1,7

Didactics for the subject English - Literature, Works

John Milton wrote his famous epic poem "Paradise Lost" at the end of Renaissance. It was published in a first version in 1667, consisting of ten books and in the final version in 1674, consisting of twelve books. Up until today this masterpiece is considered as one of the most famous writings of English literature.
The question of this paper is if the character of Satan can be depicted as an heroic figure and in how far Satan can be described as epic hero. John Milton is forcing the reader of Paradise Lost to consider the possibility that Satan may actually be a hero, or at least a character that might be analysed in a more complex way. The character of Satan uses this tension and provokes the reader. During the 13th up to the 16th century the devil was discussed very frequently among people of all classes. Nevertheless Satan or the devil is afflicted with mostly negative thoughts as he is the antagonist of God.

Table of Contents

• 1. INTRODUCTION
• 2. JOHN MILTON - AN OVERVIEW
• 3. PARADISE LOST AND SATAN
  • 3.1 CONTENT
  • 3.2 SATAN
• 4. CONCLUSION

Objectives and Key Themes

This paper aims to explore the portrayal of Satan in John Milton's Paradise Lost and investigate whether he can be considered an epic hero. The analysis focuses on the character's motivations, actions, and how Milton compels the reader to consider a complex and potentially heroic interpretation of Satan.

• The depiction of Satan as a complex character in Paradise Lost.
• The historical and cultural context surrounding the image of Satan in the 17th century.
• Milton's use of literary techniques to present Satan and his actions.
• The potential for a heroic reading of Satan in Paradise Lost.
• Milton's contributions to the development of the English language and literature.

Chapter Summaries

• Introduction: The paper introduces the topic of Satan's heroic potential in Paradise Lost and highlights the historical and cultural context surrounding the character. It sets out the research question and aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of Milton's work.
• John Milton - An Overview: This section provides a biographical sketch of John Milton, highlighting his life, education, and influences. It discusses his development as a writer, his political and religious beliefs, and his approach to literature.
• Paradise Lost and Satan - Content: This chapter provides a summary of the content of Paradise Lost, focusing on the narrative of Satan's rebellion and the events leading to the expulsion of Adam and Eve from Paradise.

Keywords

This paper explores the portrayal of Satan as a complex character in John Milton's Paradise Lost, focusing on his motivations, actions, and potential heroic qualities. Key themes include the 17th-century context of Satan's portrayal, the use of literary techniques to present Satan's character, and the potential for a heroic reading of Satan in Paradise Lost.

• College: University of Bonn
• Grade: 1,7
• Author: B.A. Maximilian Rütters (Author)
• Publication Year: 2017
• Pages: 14
• Catalog Number: V381132
• ISBN (eBook): 9783668579576
• ISBN (Book): 9783668579583
• Language: English
• Tags: Renaissance Poetry, Renaissance, Poetry, Literature, Literature Studies, John Milton, Milton, Satan, Satan as Hero, Paradise Lost