What qualities of an epic do you find in Book 1 of Milton's "Paradise Lost"?

 "Paradise Lost" is an epic poem in blank verse written by the 17th century poet John Milton. John Milton was born in 1608 and died in 1674. 'Paradise Lost' was first published in 1667. Milton had begun to write this poem in 1658.To justify the ways of God to men is the purpose of Milton. The qualities of an epic are found in Paradise Lost.

The word epic is derived from the Greek word "epis" which means unwritten narrative poem. According to the Oxford Companion to English Literature, epic is a poem that celebrates in the form of a continuous narrative and the achievement of one or more personages of history or tradition. Epics are divided into two categories:

1) primary epic,
 2)secondary epic.

The primary epic is also called folk epic or primitive epic. Again, the secondary epic is known as literary epic.

Folk epics are written by unknown author like "Beowulf". Literary epics are written by a poet borrowing the conventions of epic like "Aeneid", "Divine Comedy" and "Paradise Lost" etc.

Some key facts of epic are:

1. Epic begins with a statement of the theme

2. The story of epic begins in the middle of things

3. Epic similes or Homeric similes are presented

4. There are war, amour, catalogue, warriors

5. Long formal speeches are delivered by the protagonist

6. Supernatural machinery is also found in an epic

7. The hero is a figure of great importance.

8. The style of the epic must be lofty

9. The sitting of an epic is ample in scale, sometimes worldwide or even larger

10. Invocation of the Muse

Paradise Lost' is the immortal work of John Milton. Milton's imagination and genius are found in this epic. The characteristics of this epic are:

1. Sublimity of both subject and style

2. Universality theme is presented

3. Unity of action is presented

4. It has a proper beginning, middle and end.

5. Invocation to the Muse

6. Epic similes, metaphors and classical allusions are found

7. Grand style is also presented

8. It has a moral tone

Epic similes, metaphors and classical allusions are found.

At the very beginning of the epic, we find the invocation of the Muse. Even the poem begins with the usual epic invocation: "Sing Heavenly Muse..." It is the Christian prayer to the Holy Spirit. The poet begs the help of the Muse or Holy Spirit in order to raise and support him in his noble venture of writing this epic. This epic has sublimity in its style and subject. According to the classical tradition of Aristotle, it has a unity of action. It has a proper beginning, middle and end. But is should be mentioned that, like other epics it also begins in the middle of the action. Supernatural machineries are presented in this epic by Milton. Satan is compared to the largest creature like Typhoon or Leviathan. We know that Typhoon is a giant and Leviathan is sea monster. Satan appears as the embodiment of revenge jealousy, imposture pride etc. Satan and his unholy colleagues were in Heaven. We also find the loyal angels who belong to the Heaven under the command of God. Satan and his all companions are in Hell. Satan is presented in this epic from the beginning to the end.

Epic similes, metaphors and classical allusions are also found in this epic. The sitting of the poem is very vast. Through Satan we find the council of war. He says that, he has lost a battle but he has enough time to begin a war. He delivers a burning speech: "Better to reign in Hell, then to serve in Heaven."

"Paradise Lost" epitomizes the essence of an epic, intertwining Milton's profound theological inquiries with the grandeur of classical tradition. Through its invocation of the Muse, sublimity of style, and portrayal of universal themes, the poem stands as a timeless masterpiece of English literature. Milton's depiction of Satan as a tragic figure, coupled with epic similes and metaphors, enriches the narrative with depth and complexity.

As the cosmic conflict unfolds, "Paradise Lost" offers readers a profound exploration of human nature, free will, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. In Milton's hands, the epic form transcends mere storytelling, becoming a vehicle for the contemplation of the divine and the human condition.

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