Paradise Lost by John Milton: Exploring the Themes of Mankind's Great Fall

Considered by many scholars to be one of the greatest poems of the English language, Paradise Lost by John Milton tells the biblical story of Adam and Eve's fall from grace in language that is a supreme achievement in rhythm and sound. Written by a very bitter, very lonely Milton in his mid-50's, the book was widely criticized by the Catholic church. People wondered whether Milton sought to justify the mysterious ways of God …

…God and possibly chastise him as well for his acts. Milton continuously justifies the acts of God, showing his mercy and grace towards Adam and Eve. However, God is also represented as being somewhat tyrannical, forcing Satan to rebel against what he feels is an unjust caste system. Whether a Satanist or devout Christian, John Milton offers a tale that stretches across time and space to tell the story of mankind's great fall form grace.