Christian+epics+vs+Classical+pagan+epics

The Parallels between ancient greek epics and miltons paradise lost

//“An epic must be long and poetically well-constructed, its subject must be significant and original, its form strict and serious, and its aims noble and heroic. In Milton’s view, the story he will tell is the most original story known to man, as it is the first story of the world and of the first human beings.”// //[]//

There are many parallels between classical Greek epics and Milton’s new form of Christian epic.Firstly that the main character Satan himself is an anti-hero alike the heroes of works such as Odysseus from Homer’s Odyssesy or the Aenid. They both have defining features which make them unlikeable character such as their pride, their slyness or their wit. The difference between this Christian epic and the past epics is that the anti-hero often succeeds, and although Satan succeeds in the fall of man it is arguable as to whether their fate was already pre-determined by God.

Classical epic hero’s despite their cunningness are often extremely attractive characters and have defining good qualities such as Odysseus love for his wife Penelope, yet Satan is only seen as attractive in order for the reader to sympathise with what Adam and Eve, therefore further demonstrating the Christian standpoint. Classical epics were also pagan in their use of polytheistic religions unlike Paradise Lost which is a purely Christian epic.

Hero’s in epics were often in some form of dispute against one or more of the Gods or goddesses, the Aeneid’s Aeneas is troubled by Juno queen of the Gods, The Odysseys Odysseus is hated by the god Poseidon, and similarly the anti-hero of Paradise lost Satan is in a war against God himself. However in the history of epics they often are helped by other gods or figures yet Satan is cast to hell to suffer with other demons.

Some critics have argued that Milton has drawn upon classical epics in order to displace it alike Christianity over pagan religions yet other critics have argued that he has in actually made a parody as Satan falls short as an anti-hero, he is arguably only a part of gods greater plan for humanity, the evil to counteract good to allow humans free will. Thus Satan will never match the greatness of classical hero’s such as Odysseus and Aeneas.

Bibliography//: Francis C. Blessington, Paradise lost and the classical epic, Routledge + kegan Paul//