Here is the synopsis of our sample research paper on Milton/Satan in Paradise Lost. Have the paper e-mailed to you 24/7/365.
Essay / Research Paper Abstract
A 5 page essay that discusses the character of Satan. An epic hero is traditionally an example of a culture's ideal man, that is, someone who embodies all of the virtues that a particular society esteems above all others. A tragic hero is quite similar, as he embodies noble virtues, but suffers downfall due to a tragic flaw. In John Milton's epic poem "Paradise Lost," the character of Satan combines these two literary conventions, offering readers one of the most psychologically complex and fascinating characters in all of literature. Examination of the way in which Milton develops the character of Satan reveals the insidious and corrupting nature of evil, as Milton describes the devolution of the once beautiful angel Lucifer into the despicable grotesque that is Satan. No additional sources cited.
Page Count:
5 pages (~225 words per page)
File: D0_khsatehe.rtf
Buy This Term Paper »
Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
all others. A tragic hero is quite similar, as he embodies noble virtues, but suffers downfall due to a tragic flaw. In John Miltons epic poem "Paradise Lost," the character
of Satan combines these two literary conventions, offering readers one of the most psychologically complex and fascinating characters in all of literature. Examination of the way in which Milton develops
the character of Satan reveals the insidious and corrupting nature of evil, as Milton describes the devolution of the once beautiful angel Lucifer into the despicable grotesque that is Satan.
In Book I, Satan, the fallen angel, still retains something of his original beauty. Milton makes it clear that Satan sees himself as a victim, as he was
overlooked by God in favor of the Son. The pettiness and shallow quality of his character is evident, as well as enormous pride and vanity in thinking that he could
succeed at overthrowing God. Having fought and lost, he remains unconquered in his spirit. Satan states that he has an "unconquerable will" (I. 106) and that he has the
"courage never to submit or yield" (I.108). While Satans actions are evil, as they go against God, it has long been part of human behavior to admire even an enemy
who displays unconquerable courage. In this manner, Milton portrays Satan as a heroic figure, and elicits sympathy for him. As Satan contemplates his surroundings, he comments that it is the
way in which an environment is perceived that gives it meaning. Satan says, "The mind is its own place and in itself/Can make a Heaven of Hell, a Hell
of Heaven" (254-255.I). At this point, Satan naively believes that he will remain the same no matter what his location. "Here at least/We shall be free" (258-259.I). Satan believes
...