Satan as a Hero in Paradise Lost DOCX

Title	Satan as a Hero in Paradise Lost
Author	Andrea Nikic
Pages	4
File Size	19.5 KB
File Type	DOCX
Total Downloads	294
Total Views	928

Summary

Andrea Nikić Dr.sc Anđelka Raguž Survey of English Literature I January 22, 2015 Rebel Yell Heroism is a common feature in epic poetry, indeed, expected. Considering Milton’s Paradise Lost as an epic, this work should contain an epic hero. But can Satan, represented in Book I as a strong, courageous...

Description

Andrea Nikić Dr.sc Anđelka Raguž Survey of English Literature I January 22, 2015 Rebel Yell Heroism is a common feature in epic poetry, indeed, expected. Considering Milton's Paradise Lost as an epic, this work should contain an epic hero. But can Satan, represented in Book I as a strong, courageous and unremitting figure, willing to start a war and defend his empire with his fellows, be hero? Neglecting the idea of Satan which is entrenched in us, he has virtues worthy of a hero. With these virtues not only he buys our sympathy than admiration too. Paradise Lost begins in medias res. At the very beginning we are confronted with Satan's fall that cost him his glory. Lying with other fallen angels in such an utter darkness, it was to expect from them to give up on everything and live forever with never-ending pain. No sooner Satan finds himself in Hell, because of God's will he manages to free himself from chains. Why did God do that? Milton wants to "justify the ways of God to men" (26). Whatever Satan does, justice that underlies his actions will emerge on the surface by time. One of characteristics of a hero is to never give up, so Satan decides to make use of his situation. Encouraging words in his head inspire him, and at that point he realizes what he wants. 1...