Milton’s Use of Similes in “Paradise Lost,” Book 1. 

Answer

Comment on Milton’s use of similes in “Paradise Lost,” Book 1. 

Or, Write a note on the use of epic similes in “Paradise Lost, Book-1.” 

Or, Illustrate the significance of epic similes in “Paradise Lost.” 

Paradise Lost (1667) is an epic poem composed by John Milton (1608-1674). Milton uses epic similes vastly to enhance his descriptions. Again, it helps readers visualize the scenes he describes. An epic simile is a long poetic comparison that uses like or as. Here are key points about Milton’s use of epic similes in Book 1. 

Comparing Satan to a Great Sea Monster: Milton compares Satan to a huge sea monster to show his immense size and power. Milton says,

Sea-beast

Leviathan, which God of all his works

Created hugest.

In this simile, Satan is compared to the Leviathan. It is the largest sea creature created by God. It emphasizes Satan’s vast and terrifying form as he lies in the fiery lake of Hell. It also diverts readers from the story to the imaginative world of mythology.

Comparing the Fallen Angels with Bees: Milton uses epic similes to describe the fallen angels swarming like bees. The fallen angels are compared to bees buzzing around their hive. It symbolizes their busy activity and large numbers as they gather to hear Satan speak.

Comparing Satan to The Titans: The story talks about Satan lying in the fiery lake of Hell. It says he is as massive as the Titans. Titans were big Gods in Greek and Roman stories. They fought with Zeus and others for control of the Earth. This comparison helps show how strong and significant Satan is, even though he lost. It also gives a hint about a big fight coming up and shows how much damage Satan could do. Most importantly, it makes the story sound grand, like a myth, and more enjoyable.

Comparing Satan’s Shield to the Moon: Milton compares Satan’s enormous shield to the moon. It is seen through a telescope. This simile helps readers imagine the vast size of Satan’s shield. Milton compares it to the full moon as seen through a telescope.

Hung on his shoulders like the moon. 

Comparing the Fallen Angels with Autumn Leaves: Milton compares the fallen angels to autumn leaves. The fallen angels lying on the burning lake are compared to fallen leaves in autumn. It suggests their numerous numbers. Like the autumn leaves, they fall and cover the ground. They are scattered about, lifeless and defeated.

who lay intrans’t

Thick as Autumnal Leaves that strow the Brooks

Comparing Satan’s Troops to Locusts: Milton compares the fallen angels to locusts. It emphasizes their massive and troublesome nature. It is similar to the plagues in Egypt. Milton says,

Of Locusts, warping on the Eastern Wind,

That ore the Realm of impious Pharaoh hung.

This simile paints a picture of the fallen angels moving together. He compares them to barbarian groups from the north. He highlights their aggressive violence that is destructive to civilization.  It highlights their unity and readiness for action despite their defeat.

Comparing Satan’s Appearance to the Sun: Milton describes Satan’s appearance by comparing him to the sun rising through the mist. In this simile, Satan’s declined glory is compared to the sun shining through mist or during an eclipse. It suggests that although his brightness is reduced, he still retains some of his former splendour.

Milton’s use of epic similes in Book 1 of Paradise Lost serves to create vivid and powerful images. It helps readers visualize the scenes and understand the importance of the characters and events. These comparisons make the descriptions more relatable.