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Paradise Lost

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1667

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Book Brief

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John Milton

Paradise Lost

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1667
Book Details
Pages

500

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Publication Year

1667

Publisher

Penguin Classics

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

NP0L

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Super Short Summary

Paradise Lost by John Milton recreates the biblical story of the fall of man, beginning with Satan and his rebel angels' expulsion from Heaven, followed by Satan's deceit, wherein he manipulates Adam and Eve into eating forbidden fruit, leading to their exile from Eden as they seek redemption for their sin.

Mysterious

Dark

Contemplative

Melancholic

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.3

171,580 ratings

66%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews of John Milton's Paradise Lost highlight its masterful use of blank verse and rich, evocative language, cementing it as a pinnacle of epic poetry. Critics admire its profound exploration of free will, obedience, and the nature of evil. However, some readers find its archaic language and lengthy passages challenging to digest. Overall, it remains a monumental work in English literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Paradise Lost?

A reader who enjoys classical literature, epic poetry, and complex themes of morality and human nature would find Paradise Lost captivating. Fans of works like Dante's Divine Comedy and Homer's Iliad will appreciate Milton's intricate verse, lofty language, and profound philosophical inquiries.

4.3

171,580 ratings

66%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Character List

Satan

A fallen angel who leads a rebellion against Heaven and is a central character in the narrative, noted for his ambition and quest for independence.

The first human created by God, depicted as loving and kind, whose experiences and choices are crucial to the story's progression.

The first woman created from Adam's rib, known for her beauty and curiosity, playing a significant role in the events that unfold.

A powerful, omnipotent entity overseeing Heaven, whose plans and judgments significantly influence the narrative's events.

A divine figure known for his selflessness and devotion, who plays a pivotal role in offering redemption and confronting wrongdoers.

Book Details
Pages

500

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Publication Year

1667

Publisher

Penguin Classics

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

NP0L

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