Describe the Building of the Pandemonium, the Capital of Hell
Paradise Lost Book 1 is a notable literary work by John Milton. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Paradise Lost Book 1.
Answer
Describe the building of the Pandemonium, the capital of Hell. [NU. 2020]
Or, Give a description of hell as described in “Paradise Lost, Book I.” [NU. 2019]
In “Paradise Lost, Book 1” (1667), John Milton (1608-1674) gives a very powerful picture of Hell and the building of its capital, Pandemonium. After Satan and the fallen angels are thrown out of Heaven, they fall into Hell. Hell is their new home. Hell is full of pain, fire, and darkness.
The Description of Hell: Milton describes Hell as a place of total darkness. There is no light. He writes that there is—
“No light, but rather darkness visible.”
Even though there is fire and flames, the place is still full of black smoke and shadows. The light of Hell is not bright, but painful. There is no peace or happiness in Hell. It is a place of eternal suffering. The fire always burns. The fallen angels feel deep pain, sadness, and shame.
The Building of Pandemonium: Satan calls a meeting of the fallen angels. He wants to make a plan against God. For this reason, the devils build a huge palace called Pandemonium. The word “Pandemonium” means “all demons” or “place of all demons.”
The building is made by Mulciber, the architect of Hell. To build it, the devils dig gold from the burning hills. The building shines with gold and fire. It is grand, but also fake and hollow. Even though the devils look proud, they are full of sin and despair. Thousands of devils enter this “infernal Court” by shrinking into small shapes.
In short, Pandemonium is a symbol of pride and false glory. Hell is a dark and painful world where the devils try to make a kingdom, but it is full of sorrow and evil. Milton shows that no true joy can exist without God.