Fall of man

Definition

The fall of man refers to the biblical event in which Adam and Eve disobey God by eating the forbidden fruit, resulting in their expulsion from the Garden of Eden and introducing sin into the world. This concept is central to John Milton's epic poem, 'Paradise Lost,' where it represents humanity's loss of innocence and the consequences of free will, reflecting Milton's use of epic conventions and poetic style.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The fall of man is depicted as a pivotal moment in 'Paradise Lost,' leading to the introduction of sin and death into the world.
2. Milton uses the fall of man to explore themes of temptation, free will, and redemption, emphasizing the consequences of disobedience to God.
3. In 'Paradise Lost,' the characters of Adam and Eve are portrayed with depth, showcasing their internal struggles and motivations surrounding the fall.
4. Milton's portrayal of Satan as a complex character adds layers to the narrative, illustrating how pride and ambition led to humanity's downfall.
5. The fall serves as a foundational event that shapes not only the narrative of 'Paradise Lost' but also influences later interpretations of human nature and morality in literature.

Review Questions

• How does Milton's depiction of the fall of man in 'Paradise Lost' reflect his views on free will and moral responsibility?
  • Milton presents the fall of man as a consequence of Adam and Eve's exercise of free will, emphasizing that they had the choice to obey or disobey God. Their decision to eat the forbidden fruit illustrates the idea that with freedom comes responsibility, as they must face the repercussions of their actions. This portrayal aligns with Milton’s belief that understanding one's own agency is crucial for moral accountability.
• Analyze how Milton uses epic conventions in his portrayal of the fall of man and its impact on humanity.
  • Milton employs several epic conventions in 'Paradise Lost' to enhance the significance of the fall of man. These include invoking a muse at the beginning, employing elevated language, and incorporating grand themes such as temptation and redemption. By using these conventions, Milton elevates the fall beyond a mere narrative event to a profound commentary on human existence and divine justice, ultimately making it resonate deeply with readers.
• Evaluate the broader implications of the fall of man within 'Paradise Lost' and how it influences later literary interpretations of sin and redemption.
  • The fall of man serves as a crucial turning point in 'Paradise Lost,' establishing a foundation for themes that permeate subsequent literature about sin, temptation, and redemption. Milton's nuanced exploration of Adam and Eve’s choices prompts readers to consider their own moral dilemmas and the nature of good versus evil. This complexity influences later authors who grapple with similar themes, shaping cultural understandings of human flaws, accountability, and the possibility of redemption throughout literary history.

Related terms

Original Sin: The doctrine that all human beings inherit a sinful nature due to Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden.

Epic Poem: A lengthy narrative work that often deals with heroic deeds and events significant to a culture, characterized by grand themes and elevated language.

Free Will: The ability of individuals to make choices free from certain constraints, a key theme in 'Paradise Lost' as it relates to humanity's moral responsibility.