Glossary

11.2 Paradise Regained

10 min read•august 21, 2024

Paradise Regained, Milton's sequel to , explores Christ's in the wilderness. The poem examines themes of obedience, faith, and wisdom through Christian theology and classical literature, showcasing Milton's mastery of and epic form.

Written between 1665-1667, the work reflects Milton's engagement with biblical texts and Protestant beliefs. It shifts focus from the Fall of Man to Christ's triumph over temptation, contrasting Adam's failure with ' success in resisting 's offers.

Overview of Paradise Regained

  • Explores Milton's interpretation of Christ's temptation in the wilderness, serving as a companion piece to Paradise Lost
  • Examines themes of obedience, faith, and wisdom through the lens of Christian theology and classical literature
  • Demonstrates Milton's mastery of blank verse and epic form while focusing on a more intimate, dialogue-driven narrative

Context and composition

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  • Written by John Milton between 1665-1667, published in 1671 alongside Samson Agonistes
  • Composed during Milton's later years, after he had gone blind and experienced political disillusionment
  • Reflects Milton's deep engagement with biblical texts and his Protestant beliefs
  • Draws inspiration from the Gospel accounts of Jesus' temptation (Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, Luke 4:1-13)

Sequel to Paradise Lost

  • Continues the narrative of humanity's relationship with God, focusing on Christ's redemptive role
  • Shifts focus from the Fall of Man to the triumph of Christ over temptation
  • Contrasts Adam's failure in Paradise Lost with Jesus' success in resisting Satan's temptations
  • Explores the concept of the "paradise within" as an internal state of obedience and faith

Structure and form

  • Utilizes while innovating on the genre's traditional structure and scope
  • Employs a more concentrated narrative focus compared to the vast scope of Paradise Lost
  • Demonstrates Milton's evolving literary style and theological perspectives in his later career

Four-book epic

  • Consists of four books, significantly shorter than the twelve books of Paradise Lost
  • Book I introduces the setting and characters, establishing Christ's purpose in the wilderness
  • Book II presents Satan's first temptation, offering food to the fasting Christ
  • Book III contains Satan's temptation of worldly power and glory
  • Book IV concludes with the temptation of intellectual pride and Christ's ultimate victory

Blank verse style

  • Written in unrhymed iambic pentameter, Milton's signature poetic form
  • Employs enjambment and varied caesuras to create a flowing, natural rhythm
  • Uses elevated language and complex syntax to convey profound theological concepts
  • Incorporates elements of classical rhetoric and biblical cadences in the dialogue between Christ and Satan

Plot summary

  • Centers on the confrontation between Jesus and Satan in the Judean desert
  • Explores the nature of temptation and the power of faith through a series of dialogues and debates
  • Culminates in Christ's rejection of Satan's offers and affirmation of his divine mission

Christ's temptation in wilderness

  • Begins with Jesus' baptism and his retreat into the wilderness for a 40-day fast
  • Depicts Christ's internal struggle and spiritual preparation for his ministry
  • Emphasizes Jesus' human nature and vulnerability while highlighting his divine wisdom
  • Portrays the wilderness as both a physical and spiritual testing ground

Satan's three temptations

  • First temptation: Satan offers food to the hungry Christ, challenging him to turn stones into bread
  • Second temptation: Satan shows Jesus the kingdoms of the world, offering him political power and glory
  • Third temptation: Satan takes Jesus to the pinnacle of the temple, urging him to prove his divinity by jumping
  • Each temptation targets a different aspect of human weakness (physical need, ambition, pride)

Themes and motifs

  • Explores the nature of true heroism through Christ's passive resistance and inner strength
  • Examines the relationship between divine providence and human
  • Investigates the role of knowledge and wisdom in spiritual growth and moral decision-making

Obedience vs disobedience

  • Contrasts Christ's perfect obedience with Adam and 's disobedience in Paradise Lost
  • Explores the concept of obedience as an active choice rather than passive submission
  • Demonstrates how obedience to God's will leads to spiritual victory and inner peace
  • Illustrates the consequences of disobedience through Satan's fall and continued rebellion

Faith and doubt

  • Portrays faith as a source of strength and clarity in the face of temptation
  • Examines the role of doubt in testing and ultimately strengthening one's faith
  • Contrasts Christ's unwavering faith with Satan's skepticism and cynicism
  • Explores the relationship between faith and reason in discerning truth and making moral choices

Wisdom vs worldly knowledge

  • Juxtaposes Christ's divine wisdom with Satan's cunning and worldly knowledge
  • Critiques the limitations of human learning and intellectual pride
  • Emphasizes the importance of spiritual insight and moral discernment
  • Explores the idea of true wisdom as alignment with God's will and understanding of divine truth

Character analysis

  • Delves into the complex motivations and psychological depths of the main characters
  • Examines how each character embodies different aspects of human nature and spiritual struggle
  • Explores the dynamic relationships between characters as they engage in philosophical and theological debates

Jesus as protagonist

  • Portrayed as both fully human and fully divine, experiencing genuine temptation while maintaining sinlessness
  • Demonstrates wisdom, patience, and compassion in his interactions with Satan
  • Embodies the ideal of passive heroism through his resistance to temptation and adherence to God's will
  • Serves as a model of perfect obedience and faith, contrasting with the flawed heroes of classical epics

Satan as antagonist

  • Depicted as a complex and cunning adversary, using persuasion and deception rather than brute force
  • Reveals moments of self-doubt and internal conflict, adding depth to his character
  • Serves as a foil to Christ, highlighting the contrast between worldly ambition and spiritual fulfillment
  • Embodies the futility of rebellion against divine will and the self-defeating nature of evil

Minor characters

  • God the Father appears briefly, expressing confidence in his Son's ability to resist temptation
  • Mary, Jesus' mother, is mentioned as a source of concern and maternal love
  • Andrew and Simon Peter are referenced as disciples awaiting Jesus' return
  • Biblical figures (Moses, David, Job) are alluded to as examples of faith and obedience

Biblical and classical allusions

  • Interweaves references from various literary and religious traditions to enrich the narrative
  • Demonstrates Milton's vast knowledge of scripture, classical literature, and contemporary theology
  • Uses allusions to create layers of meaning and draw connections between different spiritual and cultural traditions

Old Testament references

  • Alludes to the temptation of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3)
  • References the Exodus and the Israelites' wandering in the wilderness (Exodus, Numbers)
  • Draws parallels between Christ and Old Testament figures (Moses, David, Elijah)
  • Incorporates and language from prophetic books (Isaiah, Ezekiel)

New Testament parallels

  • Closely follows the Gospel accounts of Christ's temptation (Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, Luke 4:1-13)
  • Alludes to other events in Jesus' life and ministry (baptism, transfiguration, crucifixion)
  • Incorporates teachings from the Pauline epistles on spiritual warfare and resistance to temptation
  • References apocalyptic imagery from the Book of Revelation

Greek and Roman mythology

  • Draws parallels between Christ and classical heroes (Hercules, Aeneas)
  • Alludes to mythological figures and stories to illustrate moral and spiritual concepts
  • Incorporates elements of classical epic conventions while subverting their traditional heroic ideals
  • Uses Greco-Roman philosophical concepts to frame theological debates between Christ and Satan

Literary devices

  • Employs a range of poetic and rhetorical techniques to convey complex ideas and create vivid imagery
  • Demonstrates Milton's mastery of language and his ability to adapt classical forms to Christian themes
  • Uses literary devices to enhance the emotional and intellectual impact of the narrative

Epic similes

  • Compares Christ to a "perfect dove" descending from heaven after his baptism
  • Likens Satan's temptations to a "swarm of flies" buzzing around Christ
  • Uses extended comparisons to natural phenomena to illustrate spiritual truths
  • Employs epic similes to create vivid mental images and deepen thematic resonance

Dialogue and debate

  • Structures much of the narrative around verbal exchanges between Christ and Satan
  • Uses rhetorical techniques (syllogism, enthymeme, ethos, pathos, logos) in the characters' arguments
  • Explores complex theological and philosophical concepts through the characters' discussions
  • Demonstrates the power of words and reason as weapons in spiritual warfare

Symbolism and imagery

  • Uses the wilderness setting as a symbol of spiritual testing and purification
  • Employs imagery of light and darkness to represent good and evil, wisdom and ignorance
  • Incorporates natural imagery (stones, birds, trees) to convey spiritual truths
  • Uses symbolic actions and gestures to represent internal states and spiritual realities

Critical interpretations

  • Examines various scholarly approaches to understanding and analyzing Paradise Regained
  • Explores how different interpretive frameworks illuminate different aspects of the text
  • Considers the poem's place within Milton's oeuvre and its significance in English literature

Theological perspectives

  • Analyzes Milton's portrayal of Christ's nature and the doctrine of the Incarnation
  • Examines the poem's treatment of free will, predestination, and divine providence
  • Explores Milton's Protestant theology and its influence on the narrative structure
  • Considers the poem's engagement with contemporary theological debates and controversies

Literary significance

  • Evaluates Paradise Regained's contribution to the development of the English epic
  • Examines Milton's innovative approach to heroism and the redefinition of epic conventions
  • Analyzes the poem's influence on later Romantic and Victorian literature
  • Considers the work's place in the canon of English literature and its enduring relevance

Comparison to Paradise Lost

  • Contrasts the scope and scale of the two epics (cosmic vs. personal)
  • Examines the shift in focus from the Fall to
  • Compares the characterization of Satan in both works, noting his diminished power in Paradise Regained
  • Analyzes the different narrative techniques and structural approaches used in each epic

Legacy and influence

  • Explores the lasting impact of Paradise Regained on literature, theology, and cultural discourse
  • Examines how the poem has been received and interpreted by different generations of readers
  • Considers the work's relevance to contemporary discussions of faith, temptation, and moral choice

Reception and criticism

  • Traces the initial mixed reception of Paradise Regained compared to Paradise Lost
  • Examines how critical opinions of the work have evolved over time
  • Explores the poem's reputation as a "minor epic" and debates about its artistic merits
  • Considers feminist, postcolonial, and other modern critical approaches to the text

Impact on later literature

  • Influences Romantic poets' explorations of the "inner paradise" and spiritual journey (Wordsworth, Coleridge)
  • Shapes Victorian reinterpretations of Christian narratives and moral allegories
  • Inspires modernist and postmodernist experiments with epic form and religious themes
  • Contributes to the development of the philosophical dialogue as a literary genre

Adaptations and retellings

  • Examines visual representations of scenes from Paradise Regained in art and illustration
  • Explores musical settings and oratorios based on the poem
  • Considers modern adaptations and reinterpretations of the temptation narrative in various media
  • Analyzes how the themes and characters of Paradise Regained have been reimagined in contemporary literature

Key passages and analysis

  • Identifies and examines crucial moments in the text that illuminate its themes and literary techniques
  • Provides close readings of significant lines and passages to demonstrate Milton's poetic craft
  • Explores how key passages contribute to the overall structure and meaning of the epic

Notable quotes

  • "Who durst be in a human form appear" (Book I, line 101): Analyzes Milton's portrayal of Christ's humanity
  • "Thy Kingdom, though foretold by Prophets old, / Is yet far off" (Book III, lines 184-185): Examines the concept of delayed gratification and spiritual patience
  • "Yet held it more humane, more heavenly first / By winning words to conquer willing hearts" (Book I, lines 221-222): Explores Milton's emphasis on persuasion over force

Pivotal scenes

  • Christ's baptism and retreat into the wilderness: Analyzes the symbolic significance of this initiatory moment
  • Satan's offer of worldly kingdoms: Examines the temptation of political power and its rejection
  • The final temptation at the temple pinnacle: Analyzes the climactic moment of Christ's victory over Satan

Language and rhetoric

  • Examines Milton's use of enjambment and caesura to create rhythmic variety and emphasis
  • Analyzes the rhetorical strategies employed in the debates between Christ and Satan
  • Explores the use of biblical and classical allusions to enrich the poem's language and imagery
  • Considers how Milton's syntax and diction contribute to the poem's elevated style and theological depth

Contextual significance

  • Examines how Paradise Regained reflects and engages with the historical, political, and religious context of its creation
  • Explores the ways in which Milton's personal experiences and beliefs shape the themes and perspectives of the poem
  • Considers how the work responds to and critiques contemporary social and intellectual currents

Milton's political views

  • Reflects Milton's disillusionment with the failed English Republic and the Restoration
  • Explores themes of true kingship and spiritual authority in contrast to worldly power
  • Critiques tyranny and oppression through the rejection of Satan's offered kingdoms
  • Examines the concept of internal liberty as a response to external political constraints

Religious climate of 17th century

  • Engages with Protestant theological debates on free will, predestination, and salvation
  • Responds to the religious conflicts and sectarian divisions of post-Reformation England
  • Explores the tension between established religious authority and individual spiritual experience
  • Reflects the growing interest in biblical exegesis and typological interpretation

Autobiographical elements

  • Incorporates Milton's personal experiences of political disappointment and physical blindness
  • Reflects the poet's spiritual journey and evolving religious beliefs in his later years
  • Explores themes of patience and faith in adversity, mirroring Milton's own challenges
  • Demonstrates Milton's continued commitment to his poetic vocation despite personal setbacks

Key Terms to Review (21)

Allusion: An allusion is a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing, or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance. It often relies on the reader's familiarity with what is being referenced, creating deeper meaning and connections within the text. Allusions can enrich the narrative by adding layers of context and allowing for more profound interpretations.
Blank verse: Blank verse is a type of poetry that is written in unrhymed iambic pentameter, making it one of the most common forms of English verse. This form allows for a natural flow of speech and is often used in dramatic and narrative poetry, providing a versatile structure that conveys complex emotions and thoughts. The lack of rhyme gives poets the freedom to explore themes deeply while maintaining a rhythmic quality.
English Civil War: The English Civil War was a series of armed conflicts and political machinations between Parliamentarians and Royalists from 1642 to 1651, fundamentally rooted in disputes over governance, authority, and religion. This conflict shaped the future of England by challenging the power of the monarchy and ultimately leading to the establishment of a republican government, which had lasting implications for literature, politics, and society in England.
Epic conventions: Epic conventions are a set of traditional narrative techniques and stylistic features that define the structure and style of epic poetry. These conventions often include a grand scope, elevated language, invocation of the muse, and the presence of heroic characters engaged in significant, often supernatural, quests. They help establish an epic's seriousness and the importance of its themes, connecting various works within the genre.
Eve: Eve is a central character in John Milton's epic poems, representing the first woman created by God in the biblical narrative. She embodies themes of innocence, temptation, and the fall from grace, playing a crucial role in the story of humanity's disobedience and the subsequent loss of paradise. Her character explores complex themes of gender, free will, and redemption across both works.
Feminist Criticism: Feminist criticism is a literary analysis approach that examines texts through the lens of gender dynamics, focusing on the ways in which literature reinforces or challenges the oppression of women. This method not only highlights the representation of female characters and their roles but also critiques the power structures and societal norms that shape these portrayals, revealing underlying patriarchal ideologies.
Free will: Free will is the ability of individuals to make choices that are not determined by prior causes or divine intervention. It plays a crucial role in understanding human agency, moral responsibility, and the nature of sin, particularly within religious contexts. The concept challenges notions of predestination and fate, emphasizing personal choice and accountability, which are central to various literary and philosophical discussions.
Imagery: Imagery refers to the use of vivid and descriptive language that appeals to the senses, helping to create mental images and evoke emotional responses in readers. This literary device enriches the text by providing a deeper sensory experience, making abstract concepts more tangible and relatable.
Innocence: Innocence refers to a state of purity and lack of guilt, often associated with childhood or moral purity. It embodies the idea of being free from sin or wrongdoing, serving as a crucial theme in various literary works. The exploration of innocence often contrasts with temptation, corruption, and the loss of purity, which are central to understanding character development and moral dilemmas.
Jesus: Jesus is a central figure in Christianity, recognized as the Son of God and the awaited Messiah. In the context of literature, particularly in 'Paradise Regained,' Jesus embodies themes of redemption, temptation, and spiritual authority, illustrating his role as a moral guide and savior who triumphs over sin and despair.
Metaphor: A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two unlike things, suggesting that one thing is another to highlight shared qualities. It is often used to add depth and meaning to language by allowing readers to connect with the text on a more emotional and imaginative level.
New Historicism: New Historicism is a literary theory that emphasizes the historical context in which a work of literature is created, arguing that literature and history are interconnected. It focuses on how cultural, social, and political factors of a specific time influence literary texts, and in turn, how those texts reflect or shape historical narratives.
Paradise Lost: Paradise Lost is an epic poem by John Milton, first published in 1667, which explores the biblical story of the Fall of Man, detailing Adam and Eve's temptation by Satan and their eventual expulsion from the Garden of Eden. The work is a significant example of Christian epic poetry that delves into themes of free will, obedience, and redemption while employing blank verse to create its grand narrative.
Puritanism: Puritanism is a religious reform movement that emerged in the late 16th and early 17th centuries within the Church of England, characterized by a desire to purify the church of perceived corruptions and to promote a strict, moral lifestyle based on their interpretation of the Bible. This movement emphasized personal piety, a direct relationship with God, and the importance of scripture, which significantly influenced various forms of literature, including poetry, prose, and religious writings.
Redemption: Redemption refers to the act of saving or being saved from sin, error, or evil, often associated with spiritual or moral recovery. It embodies the transformative journey from despair and separation to hope and reconciliation, highlighting the potential for renewal and restoration in both individuals and narratives.
Sacrifice: Sacrifice refers to the act of giving up something valued for the sake of something else regarded as more important or worthy. This term often carries deep emotional and moral implications, representing selflessness, devotion, and a willingness to endure loss for a greater good. In various literary contexts, sacrifice is portrayed as a transformative act that can lead to redemption, enlightenment, or the fulfillment of destiny.
Satan: 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.
Suffering: Suffering refers to the experience of pain, distress, or hardship that can be physical, emotional, or spiritual. It plays a crucial role in understanding human existence and the moral dimensions of life, often serving as a catalyst for growth, compassion, and deeper understanding.
Temptation: Temptation is the desire to engage in short-term urges for enjoyment that threatens long-term goals. It often represents a moral challenge, where an individual must choose between immediate gratification and adhering to their principles or commitments. In various literary contexts, temptation serves as a critical element that tests characters' virtues, revealing their true nature and the struggles they face between desire and duty.
The bible: The Bible is a sacred text in Christianity, consisting of the Old Testament and the New Testament, which serves as a foundation for Christian beliefs, teachings, and moral guidance. It is not just a historical document; it encompasses various genres, including poetry, narrative, and prophecy, making it a rich source of literary exploration.
The mind is its own place...: This phrase signifies the idea that an individual's thoughts and perceptions shape their reality, regardless of external circumstances. It emphasizes the concept of inner autonomy and psychological resilience, suggesting that one's mindset can transform how they experience the world around them. This idea resonates deeply with themes of freedom, temptation, and spiritual warfare.
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