Rding 10 Milton's descriptions of Eve vs. Adam

In this reading, Satan is waiting for his prey in the garden. He hopes to find Eve alone instead of with Adam. Eve is among the flowers. Milton describes her as "though fairest unsupported Flour" (IX. 432). To me, it seems as though Eve is beautiful like a flower, but drooping or not strong enough to think and defend herself. Later, Satan thinks or says, "The Woman, opportune to all attempts,/ Her Husband, for I view far round, not nigh,/ Whose higher intellectual more I shun,/ And strength, of courage hautie, ..." (IV. 481-4). Here, Milton seems to believe that men are a step or several steps above women in strength, knowledge, and instinct. A woman tends to be more gullible and willing to do whatever anyone tells her. Thus making Eve the more attractive prey or fawn to tempt.