Paradise Lost as a Classical Epic

John Milton’s Paradise Lost as a Classical Epic 

Classical epic poems are characterized by several features. For example, the hero is a figure of great national or worldly importance, usually the ideal man of his culture. He often has superhuman or divine traits. He has an imposing physical stature and is greater in all ways than the common man. The setting is vast in scope. It covers great geographical distances, perhaps even visiting the underworld and other worlds and other times. The action consists of deeds of valor or superhuman courage (especially in battle). Supernatural forces interest themselves in the action and intervene at times. The intervention of the gods is called machinery. The style of writing is elevated, even ceremonial. Opens by stating the theme of the epic. Main characters give extended formal speeches. Use of the epic simile. A standard simile is a comparison using "like" or "as." An epic or Homeric simile is a more involved, ornate comparison, extended in great detail. Heavy use of repetition and stock phrases. The poet repeats passages that consist of several lines in various sections of the epic and uses short, recurrent phrases used to describe people, places, or things. Both made the poem easier to memorize.

The poem Paradise Lost follows the classical epic form by telling the story of a hero, in this case, Satan, who goes on a journey and faces various challenges along the way. The poem also uses grand language and elevated style, as well as incorporating elements of mythology and history. Milton's epic poem tells the story of the fall of man, beginning with Satan's rebellion against God and his expulsion from Heaven. The poem also explores the biblical account of Adam and Eve's creation and their eventual temptation and fall from grace. The poem's themes of free will, temptation, and redemption continue to resonate with readers today.

One of the most notable features of "Paradise Lost" is Milton's use of blank verse, which is unrhymed iambic pentameter. This style of verse allows for a great deal of flexibility and variation in the poem's rhythm and structure, and it also lends a more natural and conversational tone to the characters' dialogue. Overall, "Paradise Lost" is a masterful example of the classical epic form in English literature. Its exploration of theological themes and its use of elevated language and style continue to make it a significant work of literature today. Paradise Lost is a classic epic due to following key features:

• The poem is a long narrative, written in dignified language and style, that tells the story of the fall of man.
• The poem is written in a grand and elevated style, using poetic words and allusions to classical mythology and history.
• The poem deals with grand themes, such as, nature of good and evil, conflict between free will and divine providence, and struggle for power and authority.
• The poem contains a hero who embodies the values of his society and who undergoes a journey or quest that involves great challenges and obstacles.
• The poem features supernatural beings, such as angels and demons, who play important roles in the story and who possess extraordinary powers and abilities.
• The poem reflects the cultural and historical context of its time, drawing upon the classical literary tradition as well as the religious and political tensions of 17th-century England.