Satan

Definition

Satan is a central figure in John Milton's works, primarily represented as the embodiment of rebellion and evil. In 'Paradise Lost', he is the fallen angel who leads a rebellion against God, showcasing both ambition and despair, while in 'Paradise Regained', he serves as the tempter who tries to lead Jesus astray. Through these portrayals, Satan embodies complex themes of free will, pride, and the nature of evil, making him a multifaceted character whose motivations invite both sympathy and condemnation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 'Paradise Lost', Satan famously declares, 'Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven,' highlighting his pride and refusal to submit to God's authority.
2. Satan's character is marked by a mix of charisma and malevolence, making him both a compelling leader and a tragic figure consumed by ambition.
3. Throughout 'Paradise Lost', Satan undergoes significant internal conflict as he grapples with guilt and envy after his fall from grace.
4. 'Paradise Regained' presents a more subdued Satan, whose attempts to tempt Jesus reflect his desperation and ultimate failure.
5. Milton's portrayal of Satan invites readers to contemplate themes of free will, redemption, and the nature of evil, making him one of literature's most enduring characters.

Review Questions

• How does Milton's portrayal of Satan challenge traditional views of good and evil in 'Paradise Lost'?
  • Milton presents Satan as a complex character who embodies both rebellion and charisma, which complicates the traditional binary of good versus evil. His eloquent speeches and leadership qualities evoke a sense of admiration despite his ultimate role as the antagonist. This depiction encourages readers to consider the motivations behind his actions and reflects on the nature of temptation and ambition, ultimately blurring the lines between heroism and villainy.
• Discuss the evolution of Satan's character from 'Paradise Lost' to 'Paradise Regained' and its significance.
  • In 'Paradise Lost', Satan evolves from a proud leader of rebellion to a figure filled with despair as he grapples with his fall from grace. By contrast, in 'Paradise Regained', he appears more desperate, attempting to corrupt Jesus but ultimately failing. This evolution signifies not only his personal decline but also emphasizes themes of resilience and virtue represented by Christ. The stark difference in his character across the two works highlights Milton's exploration of redemption and the consequences of free will.
• Evaluate the philosophical implications of free will as depicted through Satan's choices in Milton's works.
  • Milton's portrayal of Satan raises profound philosophical questions about free will and its consequences. By choosing to rebel against God, Satan exercises his free will, yet this choice leads him to eternal damnation. This paradox illustrates that while free will allows for individual agency, it also comes with the burden of responsibility for one's actions. Through Satan’s journey, Milton invites readers to reflect on how free will can lead to both empowerment and destruction, shaping their understanding of moral choice within a theological framework.

Related terms

Lucifer: Lucifer is another name for Satan, derived from the Latin word meaning 'light-bringer', referring to his original status as a beautiful angel before his fall.

Temptation: Temptation refers to the act of enticing someone to do something wrong or unwise, which is central to Satan's role in 'Paradise Regained' as he attempts to corrupt Jesus.

Free Will: Free will is the ability to choose one's actions; in Milton's works, it is a critical element that highlights Satan's choices and the consequences of rebellion against divine authority.