Satan

Definition

Satan is a central character in John Milton's 'Paradise Lost,' representing the embodiment of evil and rebellion against divine authority. He is portrayed as a complex figure who, despite his fall from grace, displays qualities like charisma, intelligence, and eloquence, which allow him to manipulate others and challenge God's omnipotence. His journey from a once-powerful angel to the ruler of Hell serves as a critical exploration of themes such as free will, ambition, and the nature of evil.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Satan famously declares, 'Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven,' showcasing his pride and refusal to submit to divine authority.
2. Milton presents Satan as a tragic figure whose internal conflict leads him to justify his rebellion against God, making him relatable yet fundamentally flawed.
3. Satan's ability to manipulate other characters highlights themes of deception and the seductive nature of evil throughout 'Paradise Lost.'
4. The imagery of Hell in 'Paradise Lost' reflects Satan's despair and bitterness after his expulsion from Heaven, serving as a backdrop for his schemes.
5. Satan's character raises questions about the nature of evil—whether it is inherent or a result of choices made through free will.

Review Questions

• How does Milton portray Satan's character throughout 'Paradise Lost,' and what qualities make him both admirable and reprehensible?
  • Milton portrays Satan as a multifaceted character who exhibits both admirable traits, such as charisma and leadership skills, and reprehensible ones, including pride and manipulation. His eloquence allows him to rally other fallen angels and present his rebellion as a noble cause. However, these same traits lead him down a path of destruction, showcasing the duality of his nature as both a tragic hero and an embodiment of evil.
• Discuss the role of free will in Satan's rebellion against God and its implications for humanity in 'Paradise Lost.'
  • Free will plays a crucial role in Satan's rebellion as he consciously chooses to defy God's authority rather than submitting to it. This choice emphasizes the theme that individuals possess the agency to make moral decisions, which extends to humanity's own fate. By choosing to tempt Adam and Eve, Satan’s actions highlight the consequences of free will—leading not only to his own downfall but also impacting human destiny.
• Analyze how Milton’s depiction of Satan contributes to the larger themes of good versus evil and the nature of temptation in 'Paradise Lost.'
  • Milton’s depiction of Satan enriches the themes of good versus evil by presenting a character who embodies rebellion against divine order while simultaneously demonstrating human-like traits. His manipulative actions serve as a catalyst for temptation, driving Adam and Eve toward their ultimate fall. By portraying Satan with depth, Milton invites readers to reflect on the complexities of evil—how it can be alluring yet destructive—and the moral implications of succumbing to temptation.

Related terms

Lucifer: Lucifer is another name for Satan before his fall, representing his original status as a beautiful and powerful angel in Heaven.

Temptation: Temptation refers to the act of enticing someone to commit a sinful act, which is a key theme in 'Paradise Lost' as Satan seeks to corrupt Adam and Eve.

Free Will: Free will is the philosophical concept that individuals have the power to make their own choices, which is crucial in understanding Satan's rebellion and humanity's fall.