Is Paradise Lost Biblically Accurate?

Is John Milton’s Paradise Lost a faithful rendering of biblical scriptures or does it contain liberties with it? The answer lies in understanding Milton’s intent and the various influences that shaped his poem. As a poet both before and after his concerns as a theologian, Milton embellished the bare bones of the biblical narrative with rich poetic and imaginative elements.

Milton's Poetic License

While some might expect Paradise Lost to align perfectly with the Bible, it is essential to recognize that it is not a straightforward depiction of biblical events. Milton was more focused on crafting an engaging story that would appeal to a wider audience. His adaptation of the biblical narrative allows him to explore deeper thematic and moral questions through the lens of poetry.

The Bible Versus Paradise Lost

A cursory reading of Paradise Lost reveals that while it is anchored in biblical frameworks, it incorporates a syncretism of various elements. For instance, the Cave of Day and Night described in Book VI is not biblical but pagan, drawing on Hesiod’s Theogony (736-757), where he describes the alternation of day and night. The reference to the alternation of light and darkness in the heavens (PL VI.4-8) further confirms that Milton’s depiction is not exclusively biblical.

The Structure of Salvation

The structure of the afterlife and the journey of souls in Milton’s work differs significantly from the biblical narrative. In his conception, Paradise is a one-way journey towards Heaven. After death, souls proceed to Purgatory to clear their sin debts to God. A GET OUT OF JAIL FREE CARD can allow direct access to Paradise, but this is a rare exception. The process culminates in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, when souls in Paradise are moved into Heaven. Those still in Purgatory must remain until their debts are fully repaid.

Joan of Arc and Her Role in Salvation

Joan of Arc offers an interesting twist to this narrative through her GET OUT OF JAIL FREE CARD. By faith in her holy name and her martyrdom, souls from Purgatory can be released due to the fulfillment of the law of Jesus. The exact reference is found in her statement, “I AM a good Christian,” and her martyrdom at the stake on May 30, 1431. Her sacrifice is seen as a means to hasten the redemption of souls.

Biblical Versus Pagan Elements

Milton’s work blends biblical narratives with pagan and classical influences. While the Genesis account serves as the foundation, other mythologies and poetic devices enrich the text. This blend is evident in the description of the Cave of Day and Night, which is more akin to Hesiod’s imagery from ancient Greek poetry. Other references in Milton’s writing show similarities to Homer and Spenser, further illustrating the poet’s deviation from strict biblical narrative.

Conclusion: A Synthesis of Influences

John Milton’s Paradise Lost is a synthesis of biblical and pagan elements, reflecting Milton’s poetic and theological intentions. While it aligns with some biblical themes, it also incorporates rich poetic and mythological elements that enhance the narrative. This amalgamation makes Paradise Lost a unique and profound literary work that resonates both with biblical literature and classical traditions.

Further Reading

To gain a deeper understanding of Paradise Lost and its connections to biblical and pagan traditions, readers might consider delving into scholarly analyses and editions that explore the text’s intertextual complexities. Scholars such as Merritt Hughes have meticulously documented numerous instances of Milton’s borrowings and influences, providing valuable insights into this seminal work of English literature.