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 comparis...