Model Answer
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John Milton’s *Paradise Lost* (1667) is an epic poem retelling the biblical story of the Fall of Man. However, it is renowned not just for its theological scope but also for its complex characterization, particularly of Satan. While ostensibly a poem affirming Christian doctrine and condemning rebellion against God, *Paradise Lost* has often been interpreted as subtly sympathetic to its antagonist. This seeming paradox arises from Milton’s masterful portrayal of Satan as a tragic hero, imbued with grandeur, courage, and a compelling, if misguided, sense of justice. This answer will explore how Milton succeeds in eliciting sympathy for Satan while simultaneously upholding the poem’s condemnation of his actions and ultimate fate.
Satan’s Appeal: The Construction of a Sympathetic Figure
Milton deliberately crafts Satan as a figure capable of inspiring admiration, even empathy. This is achieved through several key literary techniques:
- Eloquence and Rhetoric: Satan’s speeches, particularly in Books I and II, are characterized by powerful rhetoric and persuasive arguments. He rallies his fallen angels with stirring calls to arms, framing their defeat not as a deserved punishment but as an unjust oppression by a tyrannical God. His ability to articulate grievances and inspire loyalty makes him a compelling leader.
- Emphasis on Suffering and Resilience: Milton depicts Satan and his angels enduring immense suffering in Hell. This suffering, however, is not presented as mere retribution but as a testament to their resilience and unwavering spirit. The famous lines, “Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heav’n,” encapsulate this defiant attitude, appealing to a sense of pride and independence.
- Internal Monologues and Psychological Depth: Milton grants Satan access to internal monologues, allowing readers to glimpse his thoughts and motivations. These moments reveal a character grappling with doubt, regret, and a sense of lost glory, making him more relatable and human.
- Heroic Qualities: Satan is often described using epic similes and metaphors that associate him with classical heroes. His physical stature, courage, and determination are presented in a manner reminiscent of figures like Achilles or Odysseus.
Milton’s Condemnation: Maintaining Theological Orthodoxy
Despite these sympathetic portrayals, Milton never fully endorses Satan’s rebellion. He consistently reinforces the poem’s theological framework through several means:
- Divine Omniscience and Justice: Throughout the poem, Milton emphasizes God’s absolute power, omniscience, and justice. Satan’s rebellion is presented as a futile attempt to challenge an all-powerful being, ultimately doomed to failure.
- Satan’s Deceptive Nature: Milton highlights Satan’s inherent deceitfulness and manipulative tactics. He is portrayed as a master of disguise and persuasion, capable of twisting truth and exploiting the weaknesses of others. This undermines his heroic image and reveals his true, malicious nature.
- The Consequences of Sin: The poem vividly depicts the devastating consequences of sin, both for Satan and for humanity. The Fall of Man is presented as a tragic event, resulting in suffering, death, and the loss of paradise. This serves as a cautionary tale, reinforcing the importance of obedience to God.
- Satan’s Degradation: As the poem progresses, Satan undergoes a gradual degradation. His initial grandeur and heroic stature are diminished, replaced by pettiness, spitefulness, and ultimately, a grotesque and pathetic figure. This decline serves as a symbolic representation of the corrupting influence of sin.
The Paradox of Sympathy and Condemnation
Milton’s success lies in his ability to hold these seemingly contradictory elements in tension. He doesn’t simply present Satan as a villain; he explores the complexities of his character, acknowledging the allure of rebellion and the pain of loss. However, he simultaneously maintains a clear moral framework, demonstrating the ultimate futility and destructiveness of Satan’s actions. This paradox is not a flaw in Milton’s argument but rather a testament to his artistic skill. He forces readers to confront the uncomfortable truth that even evil can possess a certain degree of grandeur and that even righteous authority can be perceived as oppressive. The poem’s enduring power stems from this ambiguity, prompting ongoing debate and interpretation.
Furthermore, Milton’s own stated purpose – “to justify the ways of God to men” – is subtly achieved through this complex portrayal. By allowing Satan to articulate his grievances, Milton indirectly reinforces the validity of God’s actions, demonstrating that even in rebellion, God’s ultimate plan prevails.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Milton masterfully navigates the delicate balance between sympathy and condemnation in his portrayal of Satan. Through eloquent rhetoric, emphasis on suffering, and psychological depth, he creates a character capable of eliciting admiration and even empathy. However, he simultaneously reinforces the poem’s theological framework by highlighting God’s omnipotence, Satan’s deceitfulness, and the devastating consequences of sin. This paradox is not a contradiction but rather a deliberate artistic choice that enhances the poem’s complexity and enduring relevance, ultimately serving Milton’s overarching purpose of justifying the ways of God to men.
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.