John Milton’s “Paradise Lost,” a monumental work in the canon of English literature, is not just an epic poem but a treasure trove of profound and enduring quotes. Each line Milton penned in this 17th-century masterpiece is imbued with deep philosophical insight, exploring themes from freedom and rebellion to love, despair, and the human condition.
The poem navigates through the grand narrative of the fall of man, presenting a complex interplay of divine and mortal perspectives. Its language is rich, its metaphors vivid, and its philosophical undertones deeply resonant even centuries later.
As we delve into some of the most memorable quotes from “Paradise Lost,” we find ourselves confronting the very essence of human nature and the cosmos. These quotes reflect the breadth and depth of Milton’s vision, ranging from the defiant cries of Satan to the poignant reflections of Adam and Eve. Each quote is a fragment of a larger, intricate tapestry, revealing insights into the human psyche, the paradoxes of existence, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.
Paradise Lost Quotes
Here are some interesting Paradise Lost quotes:
1. “Solitude sometimes is best society.” ― John Milton, Paradise Lost
2. “What hath night to do with sleep?” ― John Milton, Paradise Lost
3. “I sung of Chaos and Eternal Night,
Taught by the heav’nly Muse to venture down
The dark descent, and up to reascend.” ― John Milton, Paradise Lost
4. “Never can true reconcilement grow where wounds of deadly hate have pierced so deep…” ― John Milton, Paradise Lost
5. “All is not lost; the unconquerable Will,
And study of revenge, immortal hate,
And courage never to submit or yield.”― John Milton, Paradise Lost
6. “Better to reign in Hell, then serve in Heav’n.”― John Milton, Paradise Lost
7. “Did I request thee, Maker, from my clay
To mould me man? Did I solicit thee
From darkness to promote me?” ― John Milton, Paradise Lost
“Awake, arise or be for ever fall’n.” ― John Milton, Paradise Lost
8. “This horror will grow mild, this darkness light.” ― John Milton, Paradise Lost
“How can I live without thee, how forgoe
Thy sweet Converse and Love so dearly joyn’d?” ― John Milton, Paradise Lost
9. “Abashed the devil stood and felt how awful goodness is and saw Virtue in her shape how lovely: and pined his loss” ― John Milton, Paradise Lost
10. “Knowledge forbidd’n?
Suspicious, reasonless. Why should thir Lord
Envie them that? can it be sin to know,
Can it be death?” ― John Milton, Paradise Lost
11. “The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven..” ― John Milton, Paradise Lost
12. “What though the field be lost?
All is not Lost; the unconquerable will,
And study of revenge, immortal hate,
And the courage never to submit or yield.” ― John Milton, Paradise Lost
Final thoughts
Each quote from “Paradise Lost” offers a glimpse into the profound narrative crafted by Milton. They challenge us, comfort us, and above all, make us ponder the eternal questions of existence and morality. Milton’s words have the power to resonate with readers across generations, making “Paradise Lost” a timeless piece. For an in-depth exploration of this epic, don’t forget to visit our extended Paradise Lost summary and discussion post, where we unravel the many layers of this literary masterpiece.
