Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
John Milton’s *Paradise Lost* (1667) is a monumental work of English literature, grappling with profound theological and philosophical questions surrounding the Fall of Man. The epic poem explores themes of good and evil, obedience and rebellion, and the nature of freedom. The line "and he's possest / Of Heaven, that's but from Hell releast" appears in Book X, spoken by Beelzebub addressing the fallen angels. This seemingly paradoxical statement encapsulates the complex psychology of Lucifer and the fallen angels, suggesting that their ambition and desire for self-rule, even born from their expulsion from Heaven, constitute a form of possession – a distorted claim to power. This answer will unpack the layers of meaning embedded within this powerful couplet.
Understanding the Context
The line occurs after the fall of Lucifer and his angels from Heaven. They have been cast into Hell, yet Beelzebub argues that this expulsion is not a complete defeat. Instead, it presents an opportunity for them to forge their own dominion, independent of God. The “possession” of Heaven isn’t a literal regaining of paradise, but a psychological state – a belief in their own self-sufficiency and power, ironically fueled by their rejection of divine authority.
The Metaphor of Possession
The word “possest” is crucial. It suggests not merely ownership, but a state of being consumed or controlled. Traditionally, possession implies demonic influence, but here, it’s applied to Lucifer. This is a deliberate inversion. Lucifer believes he *possesses* Heaven in the sense that he understands its order and beauty, and he aims to recreate it – albeit a corrupted version – in Hell. However, this “possession” is illusory, born from a desire to rival God. It’s a self-deception, a refusal to accept his subordinate status.
Heaven and Hell as Internal States
Milton frequently employs Heaven and Hell as symbolic representations of internal states. Heaven represents obedience, humility, and love of God, while Hell embodies pride, rebellion, and self-will. The line suggests that the very act of rebelling against God, of choosing self-determination, is what allows Lucifer to feel a sense of power. His “Heaven” is not a place, but a mindset – a defiant independence. The phrase “but from Hell releast” emphasizes that this sense of power is contingent upon his fall; it’s a consequence of his rejection of divine grace.
The Paradox of Freedom
The line highlights a central paradox in *Paradise Lost*: the pursuit of freedom can lead to a different kind of bondage. Lucifer believes he is achieving freedom by rejecting God’s authority, but he is, in fact, becoming enslaved to his own pride and ambition. His “Heaven” is a prison of his own making. This resonates with Milton’s broader exploration of free will and its potential for both good and evil. The ability to choose, while inherently valuable, carries the risk of choosing wrongly.
Lucifer’s Tragic Heroism
Milton, despite portraying Lucifer as the embodiment of evil, imbues him with a certain tragic grandeur. Beelzebub’s line contributes to this portrayal. It suggests that Lucifer, even in his fallen state, retains a degree of nobility – a fierce determination to maintain his dignity and assert his will. This is not to condone his rebellion, but to acknowledge the complexity of his character. Lucifer’s ambition, though misguided, is presented as a powerful force, capable of inspiring his followers.
Theological Influences
Milton’s understanding of Heaven and Hell is deeply rooted in Christian theology, particularly the Augustinian tradition. Augustine argued that evil is not a positive force in itself, but rather a privation of good – a lack of being. In this context, Hell is not a place of active malice, but a state of emptiness and alienation from God. Milton’s line reflects this idea, suggesting that Lucifer’s “Heaven” is a hollow imitation of true paradise, lacking the fullness of divine grace.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the line "and he's possest / Of Heaven, that's but from Hell releast" is a masterful expression of the paradoxical nature of Lucifer’s rebellion. It reveals the psychological complexities of the fallen angels, their distorted sense of power, and the tragic consequences of choosing self-will over divine obedience. Milton’s poetic brilliance lies in his ability to portray evil not as a simple negation of good, but as a perversion of it, a twisted imitation of true paradise born from the depths of Hell. The line continues to resonate with readers because it speaks to the enduring human struggle between freedom and bondage, ambition and humility.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.