John Milton's Satan in Book One of Paradise Lost
Satan as Human Nature's Disturbing Reflection
Nov 24, 2008
Milton’s Paradise Lost was published in 1667 and has remained one of the most important epic poems ever published. Milton’s use of language and imagery are extremely powerful, enduring, and in some aspects, macabre.
Milton's Hell
Common descriptions of Hell, known to the world of Christendom, are very similar to the one that Milton presents to his audience.
Milton writes of Hell, “Oh, how unlike the place from whence they [the angels] fell!” To Milton, Hell is a stagnant and sweltering place in which relief will never come. Milton describes the fiery flood of “ever-burning sulphur unconsumed” which Hell contains.
His depiction is nightmarish in nature and creates feelings of dread and fear for his audience. Satan’s character is reflective of the setting, and illustrative of the darker side of human nature.
Character of Satan
In Book One, Milton uses language to create the character of Satan as a gallant figure that inspires and commands the legion of angels at his requisition. Satan’s dark, and ultimately evil façade, is overshadowed by his charismatic, dominant and powerful affectation. He becomes an extremely attractive and compelling figure to the fallen cherubs.
The most powerful aspect of Milton’s use of language can be witnessed by the charismatic nature of Satan. In the first few books in Paradise Lost, Satan becomes a heroic figure, although, as the poem progresses, he loses his foothold and unwillingly reclaims his common reputation -- of deceitfulness.
Satan's Appeal to Human Nature
Satan is shown to be very arrogant and desirous. He is described as an “infernal Serpent,” which plays to Christianity’s ingrained association of Satan from the book of Genesis. The angels are portrayed as rebels due to their behaviors and strong allegiance to the Dark Prince.
Milton plays to human nature in his description of the angels. The audience catches a glimpse of themselves in the portrayal of these ethereal figures as they witness some of their own characteristics reflected. Both Satan and the angels exhibit very human traits. They succumb to the common temptations and sins that people struggle with -- such as vanity, greed, lust and gluttony.
Satan's Ambition and Greed
Satan is extremely ambitious and dedicated to his pursuit of power, position and image. He yearns to be in control and have his followers admire him while, at the same time, seeking comfort from him. Satan feels he will become their Savior. He is determined to do so. He sees it as something he is owed.
The charismatic nature with which Satan speaks is extremely effective. Since their descent into Hell, the angels now view Satan as their leading voice and salvation. Though other angels may be fully capable of taking the reins as leader, no one would dare attempt to threaten Satan’s position.
Satan's Physical Stature
Milton’s physical description of Satan matches the enormity of his personality. His armor is described as massive in size and weight. The massive weight and size of his shield alone, which “… hung on his shoulders like the moon,” apparently is plenty to be thought intimidating. His spear “ … to equal … the tallest pine” further demonstrates his immense height and strength.
Satan's Inner Struggle
Regardless of the number of angels Satan has at his command, such faithfulness does not diminish his resentment over his defeat in Heaven. Losing the happiness he once knew contributes greatly to the animosity that he directs inwardly. He makes conscious attempts to preserve his calm demeanor for the sake of his followers; to make it easier for him to place the blame on God.
It can be argued that Satan feels some regret over his actions, but since he has won the affections of his legion he cannot allow such feelings to show. To allow the angels to see this kind of uncertainty would be interpreted as weakness.
Milton, John. Paradise Lost: and Other Poems. New York: Penguin Books, 1961.
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