Paradise Lost: Satan Hero Or Villain?
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Paradise Lost in 1667. The book tells about man's creation and fall while detailing
characters and the plot beyond what the Bible taught. One of these characters is Satan,
which is one of the most argumented, controversial, and popular characters in the history
of literature. The reason for controversary is the unclarity of whether or not Satan is a
hero or a villain. He contains many qualities that distinguish him as a hero. On the other
hand he also has qualities which say he is a villain. Scholars have written over time to
support each argument of hero or villain and have explained why Milton decided to
create such a character.
In Paradise Lost there are many times where we see Satan partaking in heroic
acts. His bravery and heroism is shown when he encounters Sin and Death at the gates of
hell.
Whence and what art thou, execrable Shape,
That dar'st, though grim and terrible, advance
Thy miscereated front athwart my way
To yonder gates? Through them I meant to pass,
That be assured, without leave asked of thee.
Retire, or taste they folly, and learn by proof,
Hell-born, not to contend with the Spirits of Heaven.
(Milton 80)
This shows us Satan not being scared to fight. He looks Death right in the face
and says that he doesn't get out of the way he will physically move him out of the way.
By this readers are not impressed because it is only Satan, but a great heroic figure like
Odysseus would get praised for this. Satan is marked villain because of his reputation.
But it is obvious that Satan is a hero for he contains so many heroic characteristicts.
Another instance in the book in which Satan shows his heroism is when he is leading the
charge against Michael. A regular soldier would stay in the back of the army or linger
around in the middle of the pack. But not Satan, he is right there...
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