Paradise Lost

Summary

Paradise Lost is an epic poem by John Milton that delves into the biblical story of the Fall of Man, exploring themes of rebellion, obedience, and redemption. Here is a summary:

The poem begins with Satan and his fallen angels, cast out of Heaven after rebelling against God, awakening in Hell. Satan, refusing to accept defeat, vows to continue opposing God and corrupt His creation. He escapes from Hell and makes his way to the newly created Earth, where he intends to bring ruin to God's latest creation: mankind.

In Heaven, God observes Satan's movements and foretells the fall of man, but also reveals His plan for redemption through His Son. Meanwhile, Satan enters the Garden of Eden, where he finds Adam and Eve living in blissful innocence. Disguised as a serpent, Satan tempts Eve to eat the forbidden fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, promising her that it will grant divine knowledge.

Eve, succumbing to curiosity and desire, eats the fruit and shares it with Adam, who, though reluctant, also eats it out of love for Eve. Immediately, they become aware of their nakedness and feel shame and guilt. Their disobedience leads to their expulsion from Paradise, marking the beginning of human suffering and mortality.

In the aftermath, God sends the archangel Michael to escort Adam and Eve out of Eden. Michael reveals to Adam future events, including the coming of the Messiah, who will ultimately redeem humanity. Comforted by this promise, Adam and Eve leave Paradise, now aware of the harsh realities of their new world, but with hope for the future and the possibility of salvation.

Paradise Lost ends on a note of redemption, emphasizing the idea that through suffering and repentance, humanity can find grace and return to God's favor.