In lines 1-26, Milton uses the classical approach to beginning his poem. Using apostrophe, he calls upon the muse to inspire him, help him make the best poem, and assist him in portraying his theme: "justifying the ways of god to men" (26). In these lines, Milton makes many biblical allusions to Mount Zion and Sinai and more. He mentions them like Homer mentioned Greek Mythology in his poetry.
During the next section, Satan and his comrade, Beelzebub, are introduced. Mainly we learn about the history of the war between God and Satan. In addition, Milton mentions Satan's role in the eviction from the Garden Eden. Evil's motives appear to be revenge, lust, and pride. In the height of his pride, Satan tried to overthrow God, but God threw him down to hell, where Satan plots his revenge. Evil's presence began in the very beginning of man's time on earth.
I think that the invocation ends and the narrative voice begins at line 34 when Milton begins to speak of "Th' infernal serpent"
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jake. I also think the narrative begins around line 33. He stops speaking to the muse when he says, "Th' Infernal Serpent." This is when he stops saying things like "thy" and asking questions to the muse.
ReplyDeleteMilton's narrative voice blames the serpent for causing the separation between humans and God instead of Eve directly. I think this is an interesting point because the bible sometimes describes women as dirty or easily tricked/influenced.
ReplyDeleteAlso, Milton uses a very different tone of voice when writing about the serpent. He seems to hate the serpent and therefore satan even though God teaches his people to love their neighbors and treat their enemy kindly as they would treat themselves. I just think the contrast between asking questions about the heavens and then dark and evil statements of hell is amplified by Milton's choice of words and tone of voice. Yes, Milton's narrative voice takes over the invoation at the line "Th` Infernal Serpent."
Liz brings up a couple of good points for us to consider through our study of Milton. Let's pay attention to his attitude toward women. Not sure he had such a good reputation in real life. And of course, we can't downplay the importance of Milton's diction!
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