In these books in Paradise Lost, Milton tells a story through the angel Raphael. While Raphael is telling the story of God to Adam and Eve, he is also giving an underlying theme relevant to this part of the book. He tells Adam and Eve that they will be kicked out of paradise, but they will not be completely without paradise. He explains to them a paradise within themselves. He encourages them to keep their spirits right and high so that it is easier to live. While their circumstances have changed, their inner peace doesn't necessarily change. This is also shown earlier in the book with Satan's inner thoughts. To remind you, Satan says that everywhere he goes, hell goes with him. This isn't saying that he himself is surrounded by evil, but his mind is captivated by torture. This could reference regret. He is stuck in the internal torture because unlike Adam and Eve, there is no room for deliverance. Adam and Eve are free to release themselves from internal pain because they are given deliverance. God did not cast them away in abandonment but cast them out of perfect paradise. However, he still loves and protects them. Satan, however, was cast out the kingdom and left to "rule" his own torture--physical and mental. Milton, despite all of his weird theology, does show us a quick reminder of the peace we have in God due to the forgiveness we have to offer which reminds us that we are never alone.
I commented on Addison and Spencer (St. Cyr)'s posts.
I commented on Addison and Spencer (St. Cyr)'s posts.
Comments
Though, I also thought how we can apply this same analogy to our outlooks on life! If we see the world as a horrible place with no joy in it, we will, like Satan, be carrying despair and torment with us wherever we travel! However, if we make the conscious choice to choose to find the good in all things, our worldviews will be brighter and our attitudes will shine with happiness!
Zane Duke