Milton first characterizes Satan as wholly evil by citing “his own dark designs” and “reiterated crimes.” As he progresses, Milton shows Satan as impenetrable and pervasive through a description of his size, saying that he is “extended long and large”, “in bulk as huge/ As whom the fables name of monstrous size”, “mighty stature” and “so stretched out huge in length.” His evil becomes even more widespread as “he sought/ Evil to others.” These statements clarify that Satan not only invokes evil upon himself but also spreads this evil to others. However, the most enraging aspect of Satan’s evil is the “infinite goodness, grace, and mercy” that results. Therefore, the reader recognizes that although evil exists and is encouraged by Satan, ultimate goodness prevails, negating the effects of Satan’s wrath.
It could also be interesting to look at the language such as "mighty stature" that you pointed out as a type of heroic description. Milton's description of Satan is reminiscent of descriptions of ancient heroes, with the significant difference that his designs are evil rather than good. The enormity of his evil - as it is shown in parallel to the enormity of a hero's goodness - and the fact that Satan is nevertheless subordinate to God proves your point that ultimate goodness prevails, negating the effects of Satan's wrath.
ReplyDeleteJust a question that I realized after reading this post and Satan's speech and then descriptions-- is Satan acting alone? I feel he is speaking to troops of some sort, but that it is not addressed. "...while he sought [ 215 ]
ReplyDeleteEvil to others," makes Satan a single worker of evil. Then who is "the Mate"? If Satan required multiple aides, then it would once again be proof that God, in his unity, is more powerful than Satan.
I agree that Satan is subordinate the God. Milton's language suggests that Satan is a massive, physically imposing beast, but as a Puritan Milton obviously favors the power of God to that of Satan. However, Puritan speeches such as Jonathan Edward's "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" suggest that some Puritans believe God to be an unforgiving being. I believe Milton's ultimate purpose is not to make Satan seem as powerful as God, but to depict a large man who's actions perhaps do not match his physical presence.
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