Milton’s Paradise Lost :: Paradise Lost

Miltons Paradise Lost Critics of the Romantic Period have claimed that John Milton was unconsciously allied with the forces of evil. In Paradise Lost Miltons accounts of Devils & Hell ar much more elaborate and awe inspiring than those of Angels & God. Hell and daimon are portrayed extensively whereas the reader is given brief and inconclusive glimpses of Heaven. The apparent dichotomy is explained by William Blake The reason Milton wrote in fetters when he wrote of Angels & Gods, and at liberty when of Devils & Hell, is because he was a true Poet and of the Devils Party without knowing it.Miltons adherence to orthodox views resulted in an uninspired portrait of Heaven. Hell, in contrast, was greatly real the vivid imagery of the volcanic and desolate terrain gave Hell a genuine ambience. Milton described Hell as a lake of tin (280) and commented on the Floods and Whirlwinds of tempestuous fire (77). He indicated that darkness is given off instead of light No light, but rat her darkness visible (63). The devils, especially Satan, were characterized in more point in time than the angels or God. The first two books of Paradise Lost featured the fallen angels debate understanding their future plans. As a true Poet Milton sought to appeal to the emotions of his readers. The innate human inclination towards evil inspired Miltons powerful description of Hell as opposed to his unimaginative view of Heaven.Milton held strongly antipathetic views with regard to tyrannical authorities. He created numerous pamphlets to protest the regime of unjust rulers such as King Charles I. Blake suggested that Miltons opposition to tyranny was also applicable to the business office of God. Both Satan and Milton expressed similar rebellious sentiments. In Paradise Lost, Satan speaks of Gods unjust rule, which parallels Miltons philosophy regarding tyrannical princes and kings of his day. For example, Satan says to his followers that All is not lost the unconquera ble Will / And study of revenge, immortal hate / And courage never to submit or yield (106-108).