Paradise Lost Explained: How John Milton Wrote His Epic Religious Poem from Satan's Perspective
Briefly

Paradise Lost is a significant literary work that reflects on the Biblical fall of man, told from the perspective of Satan. Originally published in 1667, it has largely become the focus of specialist scholars rather than the general public. Samuel Johnson remarked that reading it feels more like an obligation than a pleasurable experience. Despite this, some memorable quotes from Satan suggest that he presents compelling arguments, leading early readers to question Milton's true allegiance. The work continues to find new audiences, particularly through modern platforms like YouTube.
"Paradise Lost is one of the books which the reader admires and lays down, and forgets to take up again. None ever wished it longer than it is."
"The first thing to know about Milton's epic poem is that it tells the story of the Biblical fall of man - but, curiously, from Satan's perspective."
"Better to reign in Hell, then serve in Heav'n."
"The mind is its own place, and in it self can make a Heaven of Hell, a Hell of Heaven."
Read at Open Culture
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