The John Milton Library

Paradise Lost Book 11

In which the prayers of our first parents, contrite and renewed in spirit, ascend to the throne of Heaven where the Father, through the Son's intercession, decrees their expulsion from Paradise, appointing Michael to lead them forth and reveal to Adam the trials that shall befall his progeny. The archangel then shows Adam visions of mankind’s future—both the blessings and the calamities—so that with pious patience he may endure mortal life’s mingled joys and sorrows before their departure from Eden.

Paradise Lost Book 10

In which the grievous transgression of Man is revealed and solemnly judged by the Son of God, whose mercy veils their nakedness even as dire punishments are declared; meanwhile, Sin and Death, emboldened by their newfound dominion, construct a formidable bridge from Hell to Earth, spreading despair and desolation through nature and mankind alike. Adam and Eve, cloaked now in sorrow and shame, grapple with the heavy burden of their fall, seeking solace and repentance in mutual love and submission before the divine presence.

Paradise Lost Book 9

In which the celestial narrative unfolds the subtle and measured counsel of Adam and Eve as they deliberate the division of their labours within the bounteous Garden, whilst the insidious foe of mankind, veiled in the form of a cunning serpent, devises his wily approach to Eve, weaving specious reasonings that tempt her to partake of the forbidden fruit. Therein lies a solemn meditation on innocence lost and the dawning of knowledge, as the pair, moved by love and frailty, confront the dire consequence of disobedience that rend their once untroubled peace.

Paradise Lost Book 8

In which the first man Adam, musing on the vast celestial motions and the great Creator’s design, finds his curiosity gently tempered by the Angel Raphael’s wise counsel to seek knowledge more pertinent to his mortal state and earthly abode. Thereafter, Adam recounts the earliest moments of his being, his solitary existence in Paradise, the divine bestowal of a fitting consort, and the noble union that brings forth a harmony both natural and celestial.

Paradise Lost Book 7

In which the archangel Raphael, by divine commission, recounts to Adam the majestic creation of the world through the omnipotent will of God and his Son, detailing the harmonious ordering of the heavens, earth, seas, and living creatures in six days, followed by the hallowing of the seventh. Amidst celestial hymns and solemn adoration, the narrative unfolds with reverence for the Creator’s wisdom and power, setting forth the origin of all things as a foundation for human knowledge and duty.