What are the epic qualities in “Paradise Lost, Book I?” 

Answer

What qualities of an epic do you find in Book I of Milton’s “Paradise Lost”?

John Milton’s (1608-1674) “Paradise Lost, Book I” (1667) is seen as one of the greatest epics in English literature. An epic is a long, serious poem that tells the story of a hero or a big struggle between good and evil. It usually includes a grand setting, strong characters, epic battles, long speeches, and supernatural elements. In Book I, Milton uses many of these features to make the poem great and powerful.

A Serious and Grand Theme: An epic always talks about a serious and grand subject. “Paradise Lost, Book I” is about the fall of man; and how Satan and the other angels were thrown out of Heaven after they rebelled against God. The poem begins with this serious line:

“Of man’s first disobedience,…

Brought death into the world, and all our woe.”

This shows that the poem will tell a grand story of sin, punishment, and human history. The theme is religious, moral, and universal. It is about all mankind.

A Great Hero (Epic Character): Every epic has a central figure. In Book I, Satan is shown as the main character. Even though he is evil, he is brave, proud, and full of energy. Even after being thrown into Hell, he does not give up. He tells the fallen angels that they will still have courage and strength. He says that it is better to be free in Hell than to serve in Heaven:

“Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heav’n.”

Satan has many heroic qualities like leadership, strength of mind, and strong speech. He is evil but he still plays the role of an epic hero in Book I of the poem.

A Vast Setting: In epics, the story happens in many places, not just one small area. In “Paradise Lost,” the action takes place in Heaven, Hell, and later