A Survey of Relationship in Paradise Lost | By Emory Cooper

Throughout the narrative of Paradise Lost, books 7 and 8 especially, the theme of relationship remains constant. One of the earliest examples of this fact in Book 7 is presented in the relationship between the persons of the Godhead. The Father's relationship with the Son is first shown in how God tells Him of His plan to create another world, and "out of one man a race/Of men innumerable there to dwell" (lines 155-156). Second, It is shown by Their cooperation, along with the Holy Spirit, in the creation process. And finally, this divine relationship shows itself in the rest both Father and Son enjoy together on the first sabbath.

In Book 8, one can see how the divine bond of fellowship is reflected in God's newly-formed creation. First, The animals that present themselves before Adam come, "each bird and beast behold!/Approaching two and two" (lines 349-350). If only in a base semblance, God had created them with a desire for relationship among their kind. Second, The Lord instilled a strong will for socialization in Adam and Eve, as His image-bearers, that applied to physical relations and beyond. "Thus half abashed Adam replied:/Neither her outside formed so fair nor aught/...So much delights me as those graceful acts/...which declare unfeigned/Union of mind or in us both one soul." (Lines 595-604.) And lastly, Milton characterizes the angels as relational creatures as well.

[-I commented on the posts of Justin Johnson and Isabelle Ferguson.]

Comments

  1. Hailey WalshSeptember 21, 2021 at 11:00 AM

    The theme of relationships throughout Milton's poem is indisputable. I find it interesting how he proceeds to show the effects of actions upon relationships, and vice versa. The Trinity is shown as united through their narrated speech and actions toward one another, through their council. The relationship between God and satan is shattered through satan's rebellion. Along the same lines, Satan's view of the relationship as domination/servitude was shown through his hateful disobedience.

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