Top Scholars Discuss John Milton’s Paradise Lost

Today, we're taking a journey into one of the most monumental works in the history of literature—John Milton's Paradise Lost. This epic poem has shaped our understanding of themes like rebellion, temptation, and redemption, and its influence can be felt across centuries of literature, theology, and even popular culture.

In this special imaginary conversation, I’m thrilled to introduce a panel of distinguished scholars who have dedicated their careers to studying and interpreting Paradise Lost. These experts will help us uncover the layers of meaning within Milton's text and explore why it continues to resonate so deeply with readers around the world.

First, we have C.S. Lewis, whose book A Preface to Paradise Lost has provided readers with one of the most insightful and accessible interpretations of Milton’s work. Lewis’s deep understanding of Christian theology and literature makes his perspective invaluable.

Next is Stanley Fish, a pioneering literary theorist whose reader-response approach has changed the way we think about the relationship between a text and its audience. His work, Surprised by Sin, delves into how Paradise Lost engages readers in a moral and emotional journey, making us question our own responses to the story.

Joining them is Barbara Lewalski, a leading scholar of Renaissance literature, whose extensive research into Milton’s theological and literary contexts has shed new light on the religious and philosophical underpinnings of Paradise Lost. Her insights into the poem’s complex themes are unmatched.

We also have John Leonard, whose studies on Milton have traced the vast cultural impact of Paradise Lost. Leonard’s work explores how this epic has been received and reinterpreted through the ages, influencing everything from literature to visual arts.

Finally, we’re honored to have Alastair Fowler, the editor of one of the most authoritative editions of Paradise Lost. Fowler’s deep dive into Milton’s language, use of classical references, and epic conventions has helped countless readers and scholars better appreciate the intricacies of this monumental poem.

Together, these scholars will discuss the six major themes of Paradise Lost, from Satan’s rebellion to the promise of redemption, offering insights that are as relevant today as they were when Milton first penned his epic. So, sit back and join us as we explore the enduring power of Paradise Lost and what it means for us all.

Books I-II: The Rebellion and Fall of Satan

Nick Sasaki: Welcome, everyone. Today, we're exploring the first major theme in John Milton's Paradise Lost: "The Rebellion and Fall of Satan." This theme sets the stage for the entire epic, capturing the essence of pride, defiance, and the consequences of challenging divine authority. To kick things off, I'd like to hear from each of you about how Milton portrays Satan's rebellion and what it signifies in the broader context of the poem.

C.S. Lewis: Milton’s portrayal of Satan is, in many ways, a paradox. On the one hand, Satan is depicted as a heroic figure—he's resilient, charismatic, and refuses to submit to what he perceives as tyranny. But on the other hand, Milton makes it clear that Satan’s rebellion is ultimately destructive. The key to understanding this paradox lies in recognizing that Satan's heroism is deeply flawed. He embodies a misguided sense of freedom that leads not to liberation but to enslavement in Hell. Milton uses Satan to explore the dangerous allure of rebellion when it is motivated by pride and self-interest.

Stanley Fish: I agree with Lewis but would add that Milton also uses Satan to engage the reader directly. From the outset, Satan is a character that readers might find themselves sympathizing with, despite knowing he represents evil. This is intentional on Milton's part. He wants the reader to experience the seduction of Satan’s rhetoric, to feel that pull of sympathy, and then to recognize it as a reflection of their own susceptibility to sin. The rebellion in Heaven is not just a cosmic event; it's a mirror to the internal struggles every individual faces.

Barbara Lewalski: Building on that, Milton’s depiction of the rebellion also serves as a commentary on political and religious authority. The poem was written during a time of great political turmoil in England, and Satan’s challenge to God can be read as a reflection of the political revolutions of Milton's time. However, Milton is careful to show that Satan's rebellion, though initially portrayed with grandeur, leads to chaos and suffering. It’s a warning against the seductive nature of power and the consequences of disrupting the divine order.

John Leonard: It’s also important to consider the scale of the rebellion. Milton’s epic grandeur is on full display here, as he describes the vast armies of angels, the catastrophic war in Heaven, and the eventual expulsion of the rebels. This is not just a personal or political rebellion; it’s a cosmic event with implications for the entire universe. The fall of Satan is a pivotal moment in the poem, setting in motion the events that will lead to the fall of man.

Alastair Fowler: Milton's language in these sections is particularly noteworthy. The epic similes and grand descriptions serve to elevate the narrative, giving the rebellion a sense of inevitability and tragic grandeur. However, as others have noted, this grandeur is deceptive. Satan's fall is not just a literal descent but a moral and spiritual one. Milton's choice of language underscores the tragic irony of Satan’s ambition—his desire to rise above his station leads him to fall further than he could have imagined.

Nick Sasaki: It’s fascinating to see how Milton weaves together these various elements—political commentary, psychological insight, and epic storytelling—to create such a complex portrait of rebellion. As we move forward, we'll see how this rebellion sets the stage for the fall of man, reflecting the same themes of pride, temptation, and the consequences of defying divine authority. Let's continue exploring how these ideas develop in the next topic.

Books III-IV: Satan’s Journey to Earth and the Introduction of Adam and Eve

Nick Sasaki: Moving on to our second topic, "Satan’s Journey to Earth and the Introduction of Adam and Eve," which covers Books III and IV of Paradise Lost. Here, we see Satan's determination to corrupt God's new creation and the introduction of Adam and Eve, the central figures in the story of the Fall. This section of the poem is rich with imagery and philosophical exploration. I'd like to start with how Milton portrays Satan's journey to Earth and his reaction to seeing Adam and Eve for the first time.

C.S. Lewis: Milton uses Satan’s journey to Earth to further develop his character as a tragic figure. Despite his outward bravado, there are moments during this journey where Satan reveals his inner turmoil. He expresses regret and self-loathing, but his pride won’t allow him to turn back. When he arrives in Eden and sees Adam and Eve, he’s struck by their innocence and beauty, which only deepens his envy and hatred. Satan's reaction is complex; he admires them but simultaneously despises them for possessing the happiness he can never have. This duality is crucial to understanding Satan’s motivations throughout the poem.

Stanley Fish: What’s particularly interesting about this part of the poem is the way Milton invites the reader to view Eden through Satan’s eyes. We see the beauty and perfection of Paradise, but we also feel Satan’s growing resentment. Milton uses this technique to draw the reader into Satan's perspective, making us complicit in his envy. This complicates the reader’s moral stance, as we are momentarily aligned with Satan’s viewpoint, which challenges us to reflect on our own capacity for envy and resentment.

Barbara Lewalski: Indeed, Satan's journey to Earth is not just a physical journey but a psychological and moral one as well. As he gets closer to Earth and finally enters Eden, his internal conflict intensifies. Milton uses this to explore the themes of temptation and the corrupting power of sin. The moment Satan sees Adam and Eve, his resolve to corrupt them becomes fixed, yet Milton also portrays this as a moment of loss for Satan—he recognizes the depth of what he has forfeited by his rebellion. His determination to bring about their fall is as much about vindicating his own choices as it is about revenge against God.

John Leonard: Adam and Eve’s introduction is equally significant. Milton presents them not just as the first humans, but as the epitome of innocence and purity. They are deeply in love, living in harmony with nature and with each other. However, Milton also hints at their potential for disobedience. Their conversations reveal a subtle foreshadowing of the temptation to come, particularly in Eve’s curiosity and Adam’s deep love for her, which will later play a crucial role in their downfall. This sets up the tragic tension that will unfold in the later books.

Alastair Fowler: The language Milton uses to describe Eden and the first humans is infused with a sense of awe and reverence. His depictions are lush and detailed, emphasizing the perfection of God's creation. Yet, this perfection is fragile. Satan’s presence in Eden is a dark shadow over this paradise, a constant reminder of the impending tragedy. The contrast between the innocence of Adam and Eve and the corruption of Satan highlights the gravity of what is at stake—the loss of innocence and the introduction of sin into the world.

Nick Sasaki: This section of the poem really underscores the delicate balance between innocence and corruption. Milton uses Satan’s journey to Earth to not only develop his character but also to set the stage for the tragic events that will soon unfold. Adam and Eve’s introduction is a poignant reminder of what is at risk, making their eventual fall all the more heartbreaking. As we move to the next topic, we'll see how these tensions begin to manifest more clearly, leading to the inevitable temptation and fall.

Books V-VI: The War in Heaven and the Consequences of Rebellion

Nick Sasaki: Now, let’s delve into the third topic, "The War in Heaven and the Consequences of Rebellion," which draws from Books V and VI of Paradise Lost. In these books, Milton takes us back to the origins of the cosmic conflict between God and Satan, providing a detailed account of the war in Heaven that ultimately leads to Satan's expulsion. This war is not only a literal battle but also a metaphorical one, representing the clash between obedience and defiance. Let’s explore how Milton presents this celestial conflict and the lessons it imparts about rebellion.

C.S. Lewis: The war in Heaven is one of the most dramatic sections of Paradise Lost. Milton describes it with all the grandeur and intensity of an epic battle, but the real conflict is ideological rather than physical. Satan’s rebellion against God is driven by pride and a desire for power, but it’s also a fundamental rejection of divine authority. Milton uses this war to explore the nature of rebellion and its consequences. Satan and his followers believe they can overthrow God, but their defeat is inevitable because they are opposing the very order of the universe. The war in Heaven serves as a stark reminder that rebellion against divine authority leads only to destruction.

Stanley Fish: The depiction of the war in Heaven also serves to deepen the reader's understanding of Satan's character. Despite the grandiose language and the scale of the battle, there’s an underlying sense of futility in Satan’s efforts. Milton shows that Satan is not just rebelling against God, but against his own created nature. His desire to be like God is fundamentally flawed because it’s based on a rejection of the natural order. The war in Heaven, then, becomes a kind of tragic theater where the inevitability of Satan’s defeat is clear from the start. This futility is something Milton uses to evoke both a sense of pity and condemnation in the reader.

Barbara Lewalski: I’d like to add that Milton’s portrayal of the war in Heaven also reflects his own views on authority and governance. Written during a time of political upheaval in England, Paradise Lost can be seen as Milton’s commentary on the dangers of rebellion against legitimate authority. However, Milton also presents a nuanced view—while Satan’s rebellion is clearly condemned, the poem also questions the nature of authority and the conditions under which rebellion might be justified. The war in Heaven becomes a lens through which Milton explores these complex themes, making it more than just a simple good versus evil narrative.

John Leonard: Milton’s use of epic conventions in this section is particularly striking. The war in Heaven is described with the same grandeur and scale as the battles in classical epics like The Iliad or The Aeneid. However, Milton subverts these conventions by focusing on the spiritual and moral dimensions of the conflict. The weapons and tactics used in the battle are almost secondary to the ideological struggle at its heart. This approach allows Milton to elevate the war in Heaven beyond mere physical combat, turning it into a profound exploration of free will, obedience, and the consequences of defying divine order.

Alastair Fowler: The language and imagery Milton employs during the war in Heaven are crucial to understanding its significance. The descriptions of the rebel angels, the celestial weapons, and the ultimate defeat of Satan’s forces are all infused with a sense of tragic inevitability. Milton uses these elements to convey the idea that the rebellion was doomed from the start because it was against the natural and divine order. The consequences of this rebellion—Satan’s fall and the loss of Heaven—are portrayed not just as physical events but as moral and spiritual catastrophes.

Nick Sasaki: The war in Heaven is a powerful allegory for the consequences of rebellion, both in a cosmic sense and in the context of human society. Milton’s depiction of this celestial conflict is rich with symbolism and moral lessons, making it one of the most memorable parts of Paradise Lost. As we proceed to the next topic, we’ll examine how these themes of rebellion and authority continue to resonate as the story shifts back to Earth, setting the stage for the temptation and fall of Adam and Eve.

Books VII-VIII: The Temptation and Fall of Adam and Eve

Nick Sasaki: Our fourth topic, "The Temptation and Fall of Adam and Eve," is the crux of Paradise Lost, drawn from Books IX and X. Here, Milton brings the narrative to its most pivotal moment—the disobedience of Adam and Eve, leading to the loss of Paradise. This event is not just the climax of the poem but also a profound exploration of human nature, free will, and the consequences of sin. Let’s delve into how Milton portrays this tragic episode and the implications it has for humanity.

C.S. Lewis: The temptation and fall of Adam and Eve are handled with extraordinary psychological depth by Milton. He presents Eve as the more susceptible to temptation, partly due to her curiosity and desire for knowledge, which Satan, in the form of the serpent, exploits. However, Milton doesn’t portray Eve’s fall as inevitable; rather, he emphasizes the role of free will. Eve is given the choice to obey or disobey God’s command. Her decision to eat the forbidden fruit, therefore, becomes a moment of profound significance, representing the exercise of free will in defiance of divine authority.

Stanley Fish: What makes this episode particularly compelling is how Milton uses the reader’s identification with Adam and Eve to create a sense of shared guilt. Throughout the poem, readers have been led to sympathize with the first humans, to see the world through their innocent eyes. When they fall, the reader feels the weight of that loss, not just as a historical or mythical event, but as a personal one. Milton’s depiction of the fall is designed to make the reader reflect on their own vulnerabilities and the ease with which they might be led into sin. This identification with Adam and Eve is central to the moral and emotional impact of the poem.

Barbara Lewalski: Milton also uses this moment to explore the dynamics of love and obedience within the relationship between Adam and Eve. After Eve eats the fruit, she persuades Adam to do the same, appealing to his deep love for her. Adam’s decision is portrayed as a tragic one—he knows that eating the fruit is wrong, but he cannot bear the thought of being separated from Eve. This act of disobedience, driven by love, complicates the simple binary of good versus evil. Milton suggests that sin can arise from even the most noble of emotions, like love, when it is misdirected.

John Leonard: The consequences of the fall are immediate and devastating. Milton describes how Adam and Eve, once filled with innocence and grace, are suddenly overwhelmed with guilt, shame, and fear. The harmony they once enjoyed with each other, with nature, and with God is shattered. This is the moment when sin enters the world, bringing with it suffering and death. Milton’s language in this section is particularly poignant, as he captures the profound sense of loss that accompanies the fall. It’s not just the loss of Paradise but the loss of a state of being—one of innocence and purity.

Alastair Fowler: Milton’s use of epic conventions in this part of the poem is masterful. He employs epic similes, grand imagery, and a narrative style that elevates the fall of Adam and Eve to the level of a cosmic tragedy. The temptation scene is rich with symbolism—the serpent, the tree, the forbidden fruit—all of which are imbued with deeper meanings. Milton also draws on classical and biblical allusions to give the fall a sense of inevitability while still emphasizing the role of free will. This duality—between predestination and free choice—is central to Milton’s theological exploration in the poem.

Nick Sasaki: The fall of Adam and Eve is perhaps the most emotionally charged and theologically complex part of Paradise Lost. Milton’s depiction of their disobedience and its consequences is both a cautionary tale and a profound meditation on the human condition. As we move forward, we’ll see how the aftermath of the fall unfolds, affecting not only Adam and Eve but all of humanity. The next topic will explore the consequences of this fall and the glimmer of hope that Milton offers through the promise of redemption.

Books IX-X: The Consequences of the Fall and the Promise of Redemption

Nick Sasaki: In our fifth topic, "The Consequences of the Fall and the Promise of Redemption," which covers Books XI and XII of Paradise Lost, we explore the aftermath of Adam and Eve’s disobedience. This section of the poem delves into the immediate and long-term effects of the Fall, both on the first humans and on the future of humanity. But alongside the consequences, Milton also introduces the idea of redemption, offering a message of hope amid the despair. Let’s discuss how Milton portrays these themes and the significance they hold within the broader narrative.

C.S. Lewis: The consequences of the Fall are portrayed by Milton with a sense of tragic inevitability. Adam and Eve’s immediate reactions—shame, guilt, and fear—mark the beginning of their alienation from God, each other, and the natural world. Milton’s description of their emotional turmoil is deeply moving, as he shows the depth of their loss. However, what’s truly remarkable is how Milton balances this despair with the promise of redemption. Through the archangel Michael, God reveals to Adam the future of humanity, including the coming of Christ as the Redeemer. This promise of redemption is Milton’s way of affirming that, despite the Fall, there is hope for salvation.

Stanley Fish: The introduction of redemption is crucial to understanding the moral framework of Paradise Lost. While the Fall brings about suffering and death, Milton does not leave the reader in despair. Instead, he shows that the Fall, in a paradoxical way, is part of God’s greater plan for humanity. The promise of redemption through Christ is presented as a way to restore what was lost, not through a return to the innocence of Eden, but through a new and more profound relationship with God. This idea of ‘felix culpa’ or the ‘fortunate fall’ suggests that the Fall, while tragic, ultimately leads to a greater good.

Barbara Lewalski: The consequences of the Fall are not just spiritual but also societal and historical. Milton uses Michael’s vision to show Adam the unfolding history of humanity—wars, suffering, and the rise and fall of empires. This vision emphasizes the far-reaching impact of sin, but it also reinforces the idea that history is moving toward a divine purpose. The promise of redemption is not just for Adam and Eve but for all of humanity. Milton’s use of prophecy and vision in these books ties the immediate consequences of the Fall to the larger narrative of human history and salvation.

John Leonard: Milton’s portrayal of Adam and Eve in the aftermath of the Fall is also significant. They are no longer the perfect beings they were before, but they are not beyond redemption. Their repentance and acceptance of their fate show a growth in character—a movement from innocence to experience. This maturation process is an essential part of Milton’s theological vision. By accepting the consequences of their actions and turning toward God, Adam and Eve begin the process of redemption. Milton suggests that true knowledge and wisdom come not from avoiding sin but from recognizing and repenting for it.

Alastair Fowler: The language and structure of these final books are infused with a sense of closure and resolution. Milton carefully balances the themes of justice and mercy, showing that while the consequences of the Fall are severe, they are not without purpose. The promise of redemption, articulated through Michael’s prophetic vision, provides a counterbalance to the despair of the Fall. The poem ends on a note of hope, with Adam and Eve leaving Eden to begin a new life on Earth, guided by the promise of divine grace. Milton’s use of epic conventions, such as prophecy and vision, elevates the conclusion to a fitting end for a work of such cosmic scope.

Nick Sasaki: Milton’s Paradise Lost concludes with a powerful message: despite the Fall and its devastating consequences, redemption is possible. The promise of salvation through Christ offers hope not just for Adam and Eve, but for all humanity. This theme of redemption transforms the narrative from a tragedy into a story of ultimate triumph, where the possibility of grace and forgiveness outweighs the despair of sin. As we wrap up this discussion, we'll reflect on how these ideas tie together the various themes we've explored throughout the poem.

Books XI-XII: The Legacy of Paradise Lost and Its Impact on Literature and Theology

Nick Sasaki: For our final topic, "The Legacy of Paradise Lost and Its Impact on Literature and Theology," we'll explore how Milton’s epic has influenced not only literature but also theological thought over the centuries. Paradise Lost is more than just a story; it's a work that has shaped the way we think about sin, redemption, and the human condition. Let’s discuss the lasting impact of Milton’s work and how it continues to resonate today.

C.S. Lewis: Milton’s Paradise Lost has had an immense impact on English literature and beyond. Its influence can be seen in the works of later poets, novelists, and even philosophers. Milton’s use of epic conventions, his grand style, and his profound exploration of moral and theological issues have made Paradise Lost a touchstone for discussions about the nature of evil, free will, and redemption. The character of Satan, in particular, has fascinated readers and writers alike, becoming a symbol of rebellious ambition. Milton’s work has also sparked debates about theodicy, the justification of God’s ways to humanity, which remains a central concern in Christian theology.

Stanley Fish: The influence of Paradise Lost extends beyond literary circles into the realm of reader-response theory, a field I’ve contributed to. The poem’s ability to engage readers on a personal and emotional level, to make them feel the temptation and fall of Adam and Eve, is one of its greatest strengths. Milton doesn’t just tell a story; he creates an experience that forces readers to confront their own moral beliefs. This engagement with the reader has had a lasting impact on how we think about the relationship between author, text, and audience. Paradise Lost remains a powerful example of how literature can shape and reflect human consciousness.

Barbara Lewalski: In terms of its theological impact, Paradise Lost has been both celebrated and criticized. Milton’s portrayal of God, Satan, and the concepts of free will and predestination has sparked ongoing debates among theologians. Some have praised Milton for his deep engagement with Christian theology, while others have questioned his interpretations. The poem’s exploration of the nature of sin and redemption continues to resonate, particularly in discussions about the human condition and the possibility of salvation. Milton’s work has also influenced the way we think about the relationship between human agency and divine providence, a theme that is central to Christian thought.

John Leonard: The legacy of Paradise Lost is also evident in its cultural impact. The poem has inspired countless adaptations, reinterpretations, and references in literature, art, and popular culture. From William Blake’s illustrations to modern retellings in novels and films, Paradise Lost has permeated our collective imagination. Its themes of rebellion, temptation, and redemption are universal, allowing the poem to transcend its 17th-century context and continue to speak to readers today. The enduring popularity of Paradise Lost is a testament to its power as both a literary masterpiece and a work of profound philosophical inquiry.

Alastair Fowler: Milton’s influence on the English language itself cannot be overstated. His use of blank verse in Paradise Lost helped to elevate it as a form of serious poetic expression. The language of the poem is rich with neologisms, archaisms, and classical references, which have left a lasting imprint on English literature. Milton’s ability to blend the classical with the contemporary, to create a work that is both timeless and deeply rooted in its historical moment, is one of the reasons why Paradise Lost remains a foundational text in the study of literature. Its legacy is not just in its themes but in the very language we use to discuss those themes.

Nick Sasaki: Paradise Lost has indeed left an indelible mark on both literature and theology. Its exploration of complex themes, its engagement with readers, and its linguistic innovations have ensured its place as one of the greatest works in the Western canon. As we conclude this conversation, it's clear that Milton's epic continues to inspire and challenge us, reminding us of the enduring power of great literature to shape our understanding of the world and our place in it.

Short Bios: