Paradise Lost (Book I) as a Classical Epic

By John Milton

1. Introduction

John Milton's "Paradise Lost" is considered the greatest epic poem in the English language. An epic is a long narrative poem that tells a serious story about heroic deeds and grand events. It usually deals with the history of a nation or the world. Milton modeled his work on the classical epics of Homer (The Iliad) and Virgil (The Aeneid). However, Milton wanted to go beyond them. He wanted to write a Christian epic that deals with the entire human race, not just one nation. Book I establishes all the key features of a classical epic.

2. The Grand Theme and Invocation

Every classical epic begins with a clear statement of its theme. Milton follows this rule perfectly. In the very first lines, he states his subject: "Man's First Disobedience." This refers to the fall of Adam and Eve. His goal is grand and ambitious: to "justify the ways of God to men." He also follows the tradition of the "Invocation of the Muse." However, unlike Greek poets who called upon false gods, Milton calls upon the Holy Spirit or the "Heavenly Muse" to inspire him. This shows that his epic is spiritual and biblical, which he believes is higher than the classical epics.

3. In Media Res and Supernatural Machinery

A classical epic usually starts "In Media Res," which means "in the middle of things." Milton does exactly this. Book I does not start with the creation of the world. instead, it starts after the War in Heaven. Satan and his rebel angels have already been defeated and thrown down into Hell. This dramatic opening grabs the reader's attention immediately. The poem also uses "Supernatural Machinery." This refers to the involvement of non-human characters like God, angels, and demons. In Book I, we see the terrifying landscape of Hell and the gathering of the fallen angels, which adds a sense of awe and horror.

4. The Grandeur of Satan

An epic must have a hero of great stature. In Book I, Satan appears as a magnificent, though evil, figure. He dominates the scene. Milton gives Satan many "heroic" qualities found in classical warriors. He is brave, determined, and a great leader. Even in defeat, he refuses to surrender. His famous line, "Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven," shows his unconquerable will. Milton makes Satan look grand to show that the battle between Good and Evil is a serious and mighty conflict. He is not a weak enemy; he is a powerful adversary.

5. Epic Similes and Grand Style

Finally, the language of an epic must be grand and elevated. Milton uses what is known as the "Grand Style." He uses blank verse (unrhymed iambic pentameter) which sounds dignified and serious. A key feature of Book I is the use of Epic Similes (long, detailed comparisons). For example, he compares Satan's huge shield to the moon viewed through a telescope, and his spear to the tallest pine tree. He also includes a "Catalogue," or a long list, of the fallen angels, which is a traditional epic device used to show the scale of the armies.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, Paradise Lost (Book I) fulfills all the requirements of a classical epic. It has a lofty theme, a grand style, supernatural characters, and a heroic struggle. However, Milton adapts these classical forms to fit a Christian purpose. He successfully creates a poem that is not just about a war between armies, but a war for the human soul. It remains the supreme example of the epic form in English literature.

Prepared by PKG SIR

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