Book iilCL__ /l/k£^lu^ tA. i Paradise Lost A POEM IN TWELVE BOOKS By JOHN MILTON BOSTON HOUGHTON, MIFFLIN AND COMPANY entered according to Act of Congress, in tlie year 1869, hj HURD AND IIOUQHTOK, Clerk's Office of the District Court for the Southern District of New York. May ^7. IIZI RIYBRaiBE, CAUBKISaB. STXKKOTTPED AND PRINTXD Bf H HOUOHTON AND COHPAHT. ADVERTISEMENT. In this volume an attempt has been made tc present a neat and serviceable edition of ParEsdise Lost, provided witli brief explanatory notes. It is hoped that it may prove especially useful to a class of readers, in our schools and elscAvhere, who can relish Milton's poetry, but who have few formal books of reference. The notes which have been introduced serve to throw light on points of mythology, history, and geography, and on nice or obscure turns of ex- pression. Much advantage has been derived from the labors of English commentators, and the recent edition of Keightley (1859) has been constantly at hand. But these resources have not been drawn upon without discrimination ; and a great deal of independent labor has been applied, which is none the less real, that its results appear in a compact and summary form. For the comparison of parallel pas- sages the copious verbal index, which is so valuable a part of Cleveland's edition of the Poems of Milton, has been of great use. For the most part the modern spelling has been preferred. In some words, however, as for example, IV AD VER TI SEMEN T. in quire (choir), sovran, ammiral, lour, and partic- ularly in the initial syllables of certain compounds, the orthography of the old editions has been retained. In various instances the punctuation has been modi- fied, a liberty as to the text of the Paradise Lost which is quite justifiable. This edition has been prepared under the advice and with the assistance of Professor Torrey of Hai*- rard University. Cambridge. July, 1866 LIFE OF MILTON. JoiiN Milton, the cauthor of Paradise Lost, was born in London on the ninth day of December, 1G08. His fother, John Milton, was a man of some learning and ability, and had been educated at Oxford. He there became a Protestant, and was in consequence disinherited by his father. He then established him- self in London, where he pursued the profession of a scrivener.^ The poet himself says, "I was born at liondon, of an honest fomily; my father was distinguished by the undeviating integrity of his life, my mother by the esteem in which she was held and the alms which ehe bestowed. My father destined me while yet a child to the study of polite literature, which I embraced with such avidity that from the twelfth year of my age I hardly ever retired to rest from my studies till midnight, Avhich was the first source of injury to my eyes, to the natural weakness of which were added frequent headaches; all of which not retarding my eagerness after knowledge, he took care to have me instructed daily both at school and by other mas- ters at home." His first tutor was a learned and pious clergyman, named Young, whom his pupil regarded with respect and affection. Milton was 1 At that time a scrivener -^vas not merely a copjist, but wafl em- ployed to. draw up wills, bonds, and other legal contracts. Vi LIFE OF MILTON. Bent to St. Paul's School in London, and at the age of sixteen to Christ's College, Cambridge. Before en- tering the University, he had acquired some knowl- edge of Hebrew, and translated the 114th and llGth Psalms into English verse. Milton remained at Cambridge seven years. The Hymn on the Morning of Christ's Nati\'ity was writ- ten in, the winter of 1629, soon after ho had com- pleted his twenty-first year. He had originally intend- ed to enter the Church, but it was now torn by dissen- sions between the High Church party and the Puri- tans. The interest and sympathy of Milton were with the latter, while the former, now in power, required a submission which he could not yield. He therefore relinquished this design, and after leaving Cambridge passed five years at Horton, in Bucking- hamshire, to which place his father had removed from London. Here he spent his time in close and severe study, making occasional visits to London for the purpose of buying books or gaining instruction in mathematics or music, in the latter of which he was well skilled and took great delight. We are told that " he had a delicate, tunable voice," and Ije per- formed on both the organ and the bass-viol. In one of his letters from Horton he says, "It is my way to suffer no impediment, no love of ease, no avocation whatever, to chill the ardor, to break the continuity, or divert the completion of my literary pursuits." At Horton were probably written several of Mil- ton's shorter poems, — Arcades, Comus, Lycidas, L' Allegro, and II Penseroso. The charming de- scriptions of rural sights and sounds in these poems show the influence of his country life upon the mind of the poet. The Masque of Comus was presented at Ludlow Castle, the official residence of the Earl of Bridgewater, then Lord President of Wales and the LIFE OF MILTON. vii Marclies, in 1634. The actors were the sons of the Earl, and his daughter, Lady Alice Egerton. The story of the poem is said to have been founded on the circumstance of the Lady Alice having been not long before lost in passing through Haywood forest. The monody of Lycidas was composed on occasion of the death of Mr. Edward King, who had been Milton's friend and fellow-student at Cambridge, and was drowned in 1637 on his passage to L-eland. Of the otlier two poems, L' Allegro (the Cheerful, or the Cheerful Man) and 11 Penseroso (the Pensive or Thoughtful), the exact date cannot be ascertained. Of these even Dr. Johnson, Milton's most unfriendly critic, is compelled to acknowledge that " they are two noble efforts of imagination." The mother of the poet died in 1637, and the next year Milton left England to travel upon the Conti- nent. He stayed only a few days in Paris, where he was introduced to the celebrated Grotius. From France he proceeded to Italy, and passed some time in Florence, Rome, and Naples. He was on terms of intimacy with several Florentines well known as men of letters, and says himself, " Here it was that I found and visited the famous Galileo, grown old, a prisoner to the Inquisition for thinking in astronomy other- wise than the Franciscan and Dominican licensers thought." At Naples, Milton was treated with great kindness by Manso, Marquis of Villa, now an old man, who had been the finend and patron of the poet Tasso. The influence of this visit to Italy and acquaintance with its distinguished literary men and works may be traced in Milton's subsequent writings, particularly in Paradise Lost, though it was nearly thirty years later that this, his greatest work, waa Dublished. Milton had intended to proceed from Naplea to riii LIFE OF MILTON. Sicily and Greece, but hearing of the alarming state :iS: public affairs in England he relinquished his plan, " I deemed it," he says, " to be disgraceful for me to be idling .away my time abroad for my own gratifica- tion, while my countrymen were contending for their liberty." He did not, however, immediately return to England, but again visited Rome and Florence, and afterwards went to Venice, whence he proceeded to Geneva. He returned by way of Paris to Eng- land, after an absence of fifteen months. In giving an account of his travels, Milton writes, " I take God to witness that I lived, in all those places where so much license is given, free from and untouched by any kind of vice and infamy, continually bearing in mind that even if I could escape the eyes of men, I could not escape those of God." Milton was a republican in politics and an inde- pendent in religion. In the contest at that time raging in England between the King (Charles I.) and the Par- liament, he sided with the latter. He believed nei- ther in the divine right of kings nor in the authority of the Established Church, and considered it as lawful and right to oppose to the last extreme the despotic use of the king's prerogative and the efforts made by the primate, Archbishop Laud, to maintain High Church doctrines and observances. He did not, hov/- ever, take any active part in the contest. He says, " Things being in such a disturbed and fluctuating state, I looked about to see if I could get any place that would hold myself and my books, and so I took a house of sufficient size in the city (London) ; and there with no small delight I resumed my intermitted studies, cheerfully leaving the event of public affairs, first to God, and then to those to whom the people had committed that task." Here he received as pu- piia his two nephews, the sons of his sister JNlrs. Phil- LIFE OF MILTON. ^ lips, and also the sons of some of his friends. TbesG he instructed in Greek, Latin, and Hebrew, as well as in mathematics and astronomy. His schohirs read to him every Sunday a portion of the New Testa- ment in Greek, which he explained to them. In the year 1641, all hopes of an accommodation between the king and the parliament being at an end, the opponents of Monarchy and P^piscopacy became bold, and Milton wrote and published several treatises in opposition to the doctrines of what he called " Prelaticall Episcopacy." In 1G43, he married Mary Powell, the daughter of Mr. Richard Powell of Forest Hill in Oxfordshire. Mr. Powell \vm of the king's party (or, in tlie lan- guage of the times, a cavalier), and the strict and pimple notions of Milton may have been distasteful to the daughter of a royalist and churchman. A few weeks after her marriage, she went to her father's house for a visit, and there remained, though repeat- edly urged by her husband to return. Milton was not of a temper to bear such an injury patiently, and his views with regard to the duty of obedience and subjection in a wife, as afterwards expressed in Bome passages of Paradise Lost, did not incline him to submission. He considered himself as having a right to divorce a wife so contumacious, and published several treatises on the subject of Divorce, which ga\e as great scandal to the Presbyterian clergy, then at the height of their influence, as his previous attacks u})on Episcopacy had done to the Bishops and High Church party. In the same year, 1644, he published his Tractate on Education and the Areopagitica, a Speech for the liberty of unlicensed Printing, which is held to be in elo(|uence and digni.ty the first in rank among his prose works. In 1645, a reconciliation was brought about between Milton and his wife. His £ LIFE OF MILTON. forgiveness of lier and her family seems to have been complete, for he soon after received Mr. Powell (who had suffered great losses in the civil Avar which was now going on), with his wife and children, into hia own house, where they remained for some months. After this, nothing further was published by Milton on the subject of Divorce. His wife died, probably in the year 1653, leaving three daughters. The poet was afterwards twice married, and his third wife Burvived him. It is supposed that no descendants of the poet remain. Charles I. was brought to trial and executed in 1649, and Milton, whose views coincided with those of the party at that time in power (the Indepen- dents ^ having succeeded the Presbyterians in influ- ence), wrote a treatise to maintain the lawfulness of the king's execution. Royalty having been thus abolished, the government of the Commonwealth, as it was now called, was vested in a Council of State. The Latin language was used by them in their corre- spondence with foreign powers, and Milton was made their Secretary. The execution of Charles had excited the greatest indignation throughout Europe, and one of the most famous scholars of the time, best known by his Latinized name, Salmasius, pub- lished a famous treatise upholding the doctrine of the divine right of kings to rule without accountability to man. Milton was ordered by the Council to prepare an answer to Salmasius, and in 1650 appeared his celebrated Defenslo pro Populo Anglicano. But this labor caused the loss of his sight,^ which had before been greatly impaired, and soon after he became 1 The Independents (also known as Congregationalists) held that every body of Chii^tiani? forming a church was competent to manage its own affah's, choose its own ministers, and decide disputed ques tiona, without refei-ence to bishops or presbyters a See Sonnet to Cyriac Skinner, page 15. LIFE OF MILTON. a totally blind. He continued, however, to bold the office of Secretary under Cromwell (Avho had possessed himself of the supreme power, and been made Lord Protector in 1653), and wrote state papers even up to the time of the Restoration. When, after .the death of Oliver Cromwell and the resignation of his son Richard, a return to mo- narchical government seemed unavoidable, Milton made a last effort in behalf of the republicanism to which he was always ardently attaclied, but it was of no avaih The tide had turned, and in 16G0 Charles 11. was restored to the throne. Miltou was for a time obliged to conceal himself, but influential friends ex- erted themselves for him, and, though some of his books were burned, he was spared. Of the manner of his life after this time we have some account from Ell wood, a young Quaker who had become ac- quainted with the poet. He writes, " John Milton, a gentleman of great note for learning throughout the learned world, having filled a public station in former times, lived now a private and retired life in London : and, having wholly lost his sight, kept always a man to read to him, which usually was the son of some gentleman of his acquaintance, whom in kindness he took to improve in his learning." In 1665, Avhen the plague was raging In London, Milton took a small house at Chalfont in Buckinghamshire, where he remained, with his wife and daughters, till it was safe to return to London. At Chalfont he uhowed to Ellwood the manusciipt of Paradise Lost, which was published in 1067. Thirteen hundred cop- ies of the poem were sold In two years, and in 1669 a second edition was printed. When we consider the circumstances of the time and the political disfavor in which Milton stood, we must regard this as a fair measure of success, and the poet could hardly Iiave Xli LIFE OF MILTON. anticipated more when he wrote of the audieiice Jll though few that would attend his song. To more than few it must have been a delight, Ibr, to quote the words of one of his biogra[)hers, " As to the asser- tion of the poem being above the age in which it ap peared, we cannot regard it as correct ; the knowl- edge of the Scriptures, the classics, and the Italian poets, was probably greater at that time than it is at the present day ; and this is the knowledge requisite for understanding the Pciradise Lost," Criticism of this great poem would here be out of place ; its beau- ties and its blemishes must carry their own commenda- tion or condeumation. It was said by Dr. Johnson that Milton's " images and descriptions of the scenes or operations of JS'ature do not seem to be always copied from original form, nor to have the freshness, raci- ness, and energy of innncdiate observation. He saw Nature, as Diyden expresses it, through the spec- tacles of hooks ; " and, as has been maintained in our own times, described Nature like a blind man. It is true that Milton was bliiid, but he retained both memory and imagination, and numerous passages and hai)py touches as of an artist's pencil prove that it was not in vain that he had seen and loved Nature for nearly fifty years. The five years that he spent in Buckinghamshire at a period of life when the mind is most alive to external impressions, and the time that he passed in foreign travel and iinder Italian skies, must have stored his mind with pic- tures and images that it scarcely needed his genius to recall. He had not forgotten " the Etrurian shades," " Or sight of vernal bloom, or summer's rose." In 1671 Milton published Paradise Regained, a poem generally regarded as inferior to Paradise Lost. But Milton himself did not so esteem it, and LIFE OF MILTON. xui »(ras disturbed at the expression of such opiulon. Coleridge says of it, " In its kind it is the most perfect poem extant," and Wordsworth, that it is " the most perfect in execution of anything written by Milton." Together with Paradise Regained was published Samson Agonistes, probably the last poem composed by Milton. It was after the mannei of the ancient Greek drama, and contains many noble pas- Bages. In 1673 Milton published an edition of his col- lected poems. During the last three yeai-s of his life, he also published some of his earlier and later prose works. Notwithstanding the strict temperance and reg- ularity of life which the poet seems always to have observed, he had been for many years afflicted with the gout. We are told by one of his biographei*s that " an ancient clergyman of Dorsetshire, Dr. Wright, found John Milton in a small chamber hung with rusty green, sitting in an elbow-chair, and dressed neatly in black ; pale, but not cadaverous, his hands and feet gouty, and with chalk-stones He used also to sit in a gray coaree cloth coat at the door of his house near Bunhill Fields, in warm sunny weather, to enjoy the fresh air ; and so, as well as in his room, received the visits of people of distinguished parts "as well as quality." His wife speaks of his dining alone with her in October, 1674, when he " talked and discoursed sensibly and well, and Avas very merry, and seemed to be in good health of body." On the 8th of the following month, November, he died quietly and without pain, having nearly completed his sixty-sixth year. He was buried in St. Giles's Church, and "the funeral was attended by all the author's leanied and great friends in London, not without a friendly concourse of the vulgar." A monument was erected to his memory in Westminster Abbey in 1737. riV LIFE OF MILTON-. Milton was of middle height, and It Is said that his deportment was affable, and his gait erect and manly, bespeaking courage and undauntedness. He had great personal beauty, and his complexion retained even In later life much of its freshness, and the appearance of his eyes was not affected by their blind- ness. His habits were simple, and ' music seems, especially in his latter years, to have been his chief recreation. He was to the end of his life a student TWO OF MILTON'S SONNETS I. On his Blindness. When I consider how my light is spent Ere half my days, in this dark world and wide, And that one talent, which is death to hide, Lodged with me useless, though my soul more hew. To sen-e therewith my j\Iaker, and present My true account, lest He returning chide; " Doth God exact day-Labor, light denied ? " I fondly ask. But Patience, to prevent That murmiu", soon repUes: "God doth not need Either man's work or his o\vn gifts : who best Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best. His state Is kmgly ; thousands at his bidding speed, And post o'er land and ocean mthout rest : They also sen'e who onlj stand and wait." To Cyriac Skinner. Cyriac, this three years day these eyes, though dear To outward new of blemish or of spot. Bereft of hght their seeuig have forgot; Nor to their idle orbs doth sight appear Of sun, or moon, or star, throughout the year, Or man, or woman. Yet I argue not Against Heaven's hand or will, nor bate a jot Of heart or ho^je ; but stiU bear up and steer Right onward. What supports me, dost thou ask ? The conscience. Friend, to have Lst *hem overplied In Liberty's defence, my noble task, Of which aU Eurcjie rings from side to side, rhis thought might lead me through the world's vain mjute Content though blind, had I no better guide. THE VERSE* The measure is English Heroic Yerse wiLhcmt i?ime, as that of Homer in Greek, and of Virgil in Latin; llime being no necessary Adjunct or true Or- nament of Poem or good Verse, in longer Works es- pecially, but the Invention of a barbarous Age to set off wretched matter and lame Meeter ; grac't indeed since by the use of some famous modern Poets carried away by Custom, but much to their own vexation, hindrance, and restraint, to express many things other- wise, and for the most part worse, then else they would have exprest them. Not without cause, there- fore, some both Italian and Spanish Poets of prime note have rejected Rime both in longer and shorter Works, as have also long since our best English Tragedies, as a thing of itself to all judicious eares triveal^nd of no true musical delight ; which consists only in apt Numbers, fit quantity of Syllables, and the sense variously drawn out from one verse into another, not in the jingling sounds of like endings, a fault avoyded by the learned Ancients both In Poetry and all good Oratory. This neglect then of Rime so Ht- tle is to be taken for a defect, though it may seem so perhaps to vulgar readers, that It rather is to be esteem'd an example set, the Crest in English, of ancient liberty recover'd to Heroic Poem from the troublcEOia and modern bondage of Rimeing *This was printed in the second title-page of the first edition, ai " a reason why the Poem rimes not." The original spelling is pre- Eerred. PAKADISE LOSl'. BOOK I. THE ARGUMENT. This first book proposes first, in brief, the whole subject, man's dis- obedience, and the loss thereupon of Paradise wherein he was placed ; then touches the prime cause of his fall, the serpent, ot rather Satan in the serpent ; who, revolting from God and draw- ing to his side many legions of angels, was, by the command of God, driven out of Heaven with all his crew into the great deep. Which action passed over, the poem hastes into the midst of things, presenting Satan with his angels now fallen into Hell, de- scribed here, not in the centre (for Heaven and Earth maj- be sup- posed as jet not made, certainly not yet accursed), but in a pltice of utter darkness, fitliest called Chaos: Here Satan, with his an- gels, lying on the burning lake, thunder-struck and astonished, after a certain space recovers as from confusion, calls up him who next in order and dignity lay by him ; they confer of their miser able fell. Satan awakens all his legions, who lay till then in the same manner confounded ; thej' rise ; their numbers, array of bat- tle, their chief leaders named according to the idols known after- wards in Canaan and the countries adjoining. To these Satan di- rects his speech, comforts them with hope yet of regaining Heaven ; but tells them lastly of a new world and new kind of creature to be created, according to an ancient prophecj- or report in Heaven ; (for that angels were long before this visible creation, was the opin- ion of many ancient Fathers). To find out the truth of this proph- ecy, and what to determine thereon, he refers to a full council. VThat his associates thence attempt. Pandemonium, the palaca of Satan, rises, suddenly built out of the deep : the infernal peers there sit in council. Of man's first disobedience and the fi-uit Of that forbidden tree, whose mortal taste Lines 1 - 4. See Genesis iii. 2. mortal, causmg deacb PARADISE LOST. [Boob T Brought death into the world and all our woe, With loss of Eden, till one greater Man Restore us and regain the blissful seat, Sing, heavenly jNIuse ! that on the secret top Of Oreb, or o^ Piuai, didst iuspir** That shepherd, who first taught the cLossn seed In the beginning how the heavens and earth Rose out of Chaos : or, if Sion hill Delight thee more, and Siloa's brook that flowed Fast by the oracle of God, I thence Invoke thy aid to my adventurous song, That with no middle flight intends to soar Above the Aonian mount, while it pursues Tbings unattempted yet in prose or rhyme. 10 And chiefly thou, O Spirit, that dost prefer Before all temples the upright heart and pure. Instruct me, for thou know'st; thou from the first Wast present, and, with mighty wings outspread, 30 Dove-like sat'st brooding on the vast abyss. And mad'st it pregnant : what in me is dark 4. one greater Man. " For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ ghall all be made alive." 1 Cor- inthians XV. 22. 6. secret .1 retired ; apart. See Exodus iii. 1; xix. 20; xx. 21; xxiv. 15-18. 7. Of Oreb^i or of Sinai. Iloreb Is a summit of the ridge called Sinai, in the north-western part i\f Arabia, between the two gulfs of the Red Sea. 8. That shepherd. " Now Mo- Bes kept the tlock of .Tethro, his father-in-law, the priest of Mid- Ian ; and he led the flock to the back side of the desert, and came to the moxmtain of God, even to Horeb." Ex. lii. 1. — tiie chosen eed, the Hebrews or Israelites. See 1 Chronicles xvi. 13. 9. In the b.^nning. See Gen- bbIs i. 1 10. Chaos, the state of confu siou in which matter is sxipposed to have existed before the Crea- tion. — Sion hill, one of the hilla of Jerusalem, usually called Mount Zion. 11. Siloa''s brook. The pool of Siloam (see .John ix. 7) was on the south of Jerusalem. 12. Fast bi/, close by. — the ora cle of Goil the Temple. 15. the Aonian mount, Mount Helicon in Greece, the seat of the Muses, whence the Grecian p-oeti were supposed to draw their in spiration. It was situated id Aonia, a part of IJoeotia. 21. " And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of t)ie wa^ ters." Gen. i. 2. — Dove-like "lie saw the Si>irit.of God, d» pcending like a dove " Matthew iii. 16. Book I.j PARADISE LOST. 8 tllumme ; what is low, raise and support ; That to the height of this great argument [ may assert eternal Providence, 2g And justify the ways of God to men. Say first (for Heaven hides nothing from thy viow Nor the deep tract of Hell), say first Avhat cause Moved our grand parents in that happy state, Favored of Heaven so highly, to fall off go From their Creator and transgress his will For one restraint, lords of the world besides ? Who first seduced them to that foul revolt ? The infernal serpent ; he it was, whose guile, Stirred up with envy and revenge, deceived 86 The mother of mankind, what time his pride Had cast him out from Heaven, with all his host Of rebel angels, by whose aid, aspiring To set himself in glory above his peers, He trusted to have equalled the Most High, 40 If he opposed ; and with ambitious aim Against the throne and monarchy of God Raised impious war in Heaven and battle proud, With vain attempt. Him the almighty Power Hurled headlong flaming from the ethereal sky, 45 With hideous ruin and combustion, down To bottomless perdition, there to dwell In adamantine chains and penal fire, Who dui-st defy the Omnipotent to arms. Nine times the space that measures day and night 50 To mortal men, he with his horrid crew 24. arguvient^ subject. 45. the ethereal sky, heaven 25. assert, maintain by proof. 4rt-49. See Book VI. 26. justify, show to be ju.'^t. 4S. wlamnntme, made of ada- 32. lords of the ivorUl besides, mant. the hardest substance, and Bee Gen. i. 26-28, and Gen. ii. 16, therefore not to be broken or de- 17. Stroyed. SQ. what tirfie, yfhen. 49. MVio. The antecedent i( 89. peers, equals. Him in line 44. 44. Him. See line 34. 50 the space, the space of tima 4 PARADISE LOST. [Book I Lay vanquished, rolling In the fiery gulf, Confounded though Immortal. But his doom Reserved him to more wrath ; for now the thought Both of lost ha})plness and lasting pain y Torments him. Hound he throws his baleful eyes, That witnessed huge affliction and dismay, Mixed v/Ith obdurate pride and steadfast hate. At once, as far as angels ken, he views The dismal situation waste and wild : go A dungeon horrible on all sides round As one great furnace flamed ; yet from those flames No light, but rather darkness visible Served only to discover sights of woe, Regions of sorrow, doleful shades, where peace ^ And rest can never dwell, hope never comes That comes to all ; but torture without end Still urges, and a fiery deluge, fed With ever-burning sulphur unconsumed. Such place eternal justice had prepared «(j For those rebellious ; here their prison ordained In utter darkness, and their portion set As far removed from God and light of Heaven As from the centre thrice to the utmost pole. O hoAv unlike the place fi'om whence they fell ! jj There, the companions of his foil, o'erwhelmed With floods and whirlwinds of tempestuous fire, He soon discerns ; and, weltering by his side, One next himself in power and next In crime, Long after known in Palestine, and named qq Beelzebub : To whom the arch-enemy 67. ivitnessed perhaps means 74. the centre^ the centre of th« in this place, testified ; expressed World, as described in Book "VII., 69. A;f7i, know by setVng lines 224-231. 62. .4s, like. 80. Palestine. Baalzebub oi 64. discover, lay open ; show. Beelzebub was the god of Ekron 68. urges, besets ; oppresses. a city of the Philistines, in Pal 72. utter, outer. " Cast ye the estine anprofitable servant into outer darkness." Matt. xxv. 30. Book L] PARADISE LOST. 5 (And thence in Pleaven called Satan), with bold words Breaking the horrid silence, thus began : "If thou beest he — but how fallen! how changed From him, who in the happy realms of light, 35 Clothed with transcendent brightness, didst outshine Myriads though bright! — if he, whom mutual league, United thoughts and counsels, equal hope And hazard in the glorious enterprise, Joined with me once, now misery hath joined 90 In equal ruin — into what pit thou seest From what height fallen, so much the stronger proved He with his thunder : and till then who knew The force of those dire arms ? Yet not for those, Nor what tlie potent victor in his rage 95 Can else inflict, do I repent or change (Though changed in outward lustre) that fixed mind And high disdain from sense of injured merit. That with the Mightiest raised me to contend, And to the fierce contention brought along 100 Innumerable force of spirits armed. That dui-st dislike his reign, and, me preferring, His utmost power with adverse power opposed. In dubious battle on the plains of Heaven, And shook his throne. AVhat thougli the field be lost ? All is not lost ; the unconcjuerable Avill, lotj And study of revenge, immortal hate, And courage never to submit or yield, And what is else not to be overcome ; That glory never shall his wrath or might no 82. thence called Satan. The 101. forcr'^ forces. Hebrew word Satan means en«- 102. me prffurring, making me 3iy or .idver.sary . first or leader, or choosing me 87. if he. See line 84. ratiier. 91. the break in this sentence 110. T/iai fijry, theglory of my r(d,o\eTXa\«n hundred arms and fifty heads, and stopped by the darkness. T(//>/)on was a giant who breathed 207. vnder the ke, away from fire from a hundred heads. His the wind. den was in Cilicia, a part of Asia 208. Iiivest. See Judges ii. 11-15. to hare been the Phoenician Ado- 18 PARADISE LOST. [Book L In amorous ditties all a summer's day, While smooth Adonis from his native rock 4M Ran purple to the sea, supposed with blood Of Thammuz yearly wounded : the love tale Infected Slon's daughters with like heat, Whose wanton passions In the sacred porch Ezeklel saw, when, by the vision led, 466 His eye surveyed the dark idolatries Of alienated Judah. Next came one Who mourned In earnest, when the captive ark Maimed his brute Image, head and hands lopped off In his own temple, on the grunsel edge, 460 Where he fell flat and shamed his worshippers : Dagon his name ; sea monster, upward man And downward fish ; yet had his temple high Reared in Azotus, dreaded through the coast Of Palestine, in Gath and Ascalon 465 And Accaron and Gaza's frontier bounds. Him followed RImmon, whose delightful seat Was fair Damascus, on the fertile banks Of Abana and Pharphar, lucid streams : He also against the house of God was bold ; 470 A leper once he lost, and gained a king, Aliaz his sottish conqueror, whom he drew God's altar to disparage and displace For one of Syrian mode, whereon to burn His odious offerings, and adore the gods 476 Whom he had vanquished. After these appeared A crew, who under names of old renown, Osiris, Isis, Orus, and their train, With monstrous shapes and sorceries abused nip, who wa3 said to die and re- 460. grunsel et/g'C, threshold, oi vive again every year. His death groundsill. was annually commemorated. 464-466. These places were in The river Adonis flowed from the land of the Philistines, on the ilount Tiebanon to the sea. coast of Palestine. — Accaron, Ek 455. Eze.k.A saw. See Eaek. ron. rlii. 467^71. The account of the 459. Ilia bruie image. Seel Sam. leper is found in 2 Kings v., and V 1-6. of the king in 2 Kings xvi Book I.] PARADISE LOST. 19 Fanatic Egypt and her priests, to seek 480 Their wandering gods disguised in brutish forms Rather than human. Nor did Israel scape The infection, when their borrowed gold composed The calf in Oreb ; and the rebel king Doubled that sin in Bethel and in Dan, 485 liikening his Maker to the grazed ox, Jehovah, who, in one night, when he passed From Egypt marching, equalled with one stroke Both her first-born and all her bleating gods. Belial came last, than whom a spirit more lewd 490 Fell not from Heaven, or more gross to love Vice for itself: to him no temple stood, Or altar smoked ; yet who more oft than he In temples and at altars, when the priest Turns atheist, as did Eli's sons, Avho fdled 48ft With lust and violence the house of God ? In courts and palaces he also reigns, And in luxurious cities, where the noise Of riot ascends above their loftiest towers. And injury and outrage ; and when night 500 Darkens the streets, then wander forth the sons Of Belial, flown with insolence and wine. Witness the streets of Sodom, and that night In Gibeah, when the hospitable door Exposed a matron, to avoid worse rape. 606 These were the prime in order and in might ; The rest were long to tell, though far renowned, 482. scape, escape. ing gods. Among the Egyptian 4S3. borrowed. See Ex. xii. 35, deities were Amnion and Mendea, 86. the former a ram, the latter a 484. The calf in Oreb. See Ex. goat. zxxii. — the rebel king, Jeroboam. 492. to him no temple stood. Bee 1 Kings xii. There is no mention in the Old 486. grazed ox. "Thus they lestjinient of a god named Belial, changed their g.ory into the si but \vicked men are called "eon* nilitude of an ox that eateth of Belial." grass." Ps. cvi. 20. 602. Jtoion, flushed, or floodtxi 4^%. equalled. See line 248. 507. twre, (it) would b«. 489. SeeEx.xii.29. — AerWftU- 20 PARADiSE LOUT. [Book 1 The Ionian gods, of Javan's issue held Gods, yet confessed later than Heaven and Earth, Their boasted parents : Titan, Heaven's first bom, With his enormous brood, and birthright seized 511 By younger Saturn ; he from mightier Jove (His own and Rhea's son) like measure found ; So Jove usurping reigned. These first in Crete And Ida known, thence on the snowy top 5ifi Of cold Olympus ruled the middle air. Their highest heaven ; or on the Delphian cliff, Or in Dodona, and through all the bounds Of Doric land ; or who with Saturn old Fled over Adria to the Hesperian fields, 520 And o'er the Celtic roamed the utmost isles. All these and more came flocking; but with looks Downcast and damp ; yet such wherein appeared 508. Tlie Ionian s:ods, the gods worshipped by the Ionian Greeks. — Javan w.a.s the sou of .laphet, and grandson of Noah. His de- scendants are supposed to have peopled the coasts of Asia Minor and Greece. — of, by. — held, held as. 509. confessed later, confessed to be later, being fabled to have been children of Uranus, Heaven, and Ge, Earth. 510-514. There were twelve Ti- tKans, Heaven^s first born. The youngest of these, Saturn or Kro- nos, deprived his father Uranus of his power, and was in his turn dispossessed by onightierJove (Ju- piter or Zeus), his own and lihea^s son. 513. like measure, similar treat- ment. 514. Crete, now called Candia, an island south of Greece, was the birthplace of Jupiter. He was said to have been brought up in a cave of Mount Ida, which was in the centre of the island. 616. Olympus, the seat of the gods, was in northern Greece. 617. the Delphian cliff. The celebrated temple and oracle of Apollo were at Delphi, on Mourt Parnassus. 518. Dodona, in the western part of Greece, was a grove, from which answers were given to those who came to consult the oracle- It was sacred to Jupiter. 519. Doric land, Greece, or that part of Greece peopled by the Dorians, an important race. — tvho, those of them who. 520. Fled. Saturn is said to have fied to Italy, and re:gned there, after his defea*^ and over- throw by Jupiter. — Adria, the Adriatic Sea, between Greece and Italy. See Acts xxvii. 27. — Hesperian, ItaUan ; to the west, from Hesperus, the evening star. 521. the Celtic, probably a Greek idiom, meaning the Celtic land; ancient Gaul. — roamed, wand- ered over. — the utmost isles, Brit- ain, or the British Isles. — ut- most, furthest. 523. svch wherein appeared looks such that in them appeared BookL] paradise lost. ~ .?J Obscure some glimpse of joy to have found their chief Not in despair, to have found themselves not lost 525 In loss itself; which on his countenance cast Like doubtfid hue : but he his wonted pride Soon recollecting, with high words, that bore Semblance of Avorth not substance, gently raised Their fainting courage and dispelled their fears. 630 Then straight commands that, at the warlike sound Of trumpets loud and clarions, be upreared His mighty standard : that proud honor claimed Azazel as his right, a Cherub tall ; Who forthwith from the glittering staff unfurled 535 The imperial ensign, which, full high advanced, Shone like a meteor streaming to the wind, With gems and golden lustre rich emblazed, Seraphic arms and trophies ; all the while Sonorous metal blowing martial sounds : 640 At which the uniAcrsal host up sent A shout that tore Hell's concave, and beyond Frighted the reign of Chaos and old Night. All in a moment through the gloom were seen Ten thousand banners rise Into the air, 646 With orient colors waving ; witli them rose A forest huge of spears ; and thronging helm Appeared, and serried shields in thick array Of depth immeasurable : anon they move Fn perfect phalanx to the Dorian mood 550 Of flutes and soft recorders ; such as raised To height of noblest temper heroes old Arming to battle, and instead of rage 527. like, the same. 549. anon. See line 325. 528. recollecting, collecting a- 550. Dorian mood, or mode, gain ; recovering. the martial measure or music to 531. 5«ra^§-/(/, .straightway. whv.h the Dorian.^, particularly 53S. finblazeii, emblazoned ; the Sp.artans, moved. They al- Dainted or adorned with figures. ways drew up their troops in plia- 543. leign, kingdom. lanx. 546. orient, bright. 651. recorders, instrumenfe re- 548. srrni-'l, pressed close, or sembling flageolets. locked together. 22 " PARADISE LOST. [Booxl, Deliberate valor breathed, firm and unmoved With dread of deatli to flight or foul retreat ; 6U Nor wanting power to mitigate and swage With solemn touches troubled thoughts, and chase Anguish and doubt and fear and sorrow and pain From mortal or immortal minds. Thus they. Breathing united force, with fixed thought, 530 Moved on in silence to soft })ipes that charmed Their painful steps o'er the burnt soil ; and now Advanced in view they stand, a horrid front Of dreadful length and dazzling arms, in guise Of warriors old, with ordered spear and shield, 605 Awaiting what command their mighty chief Had to Impose : he through the armed files Darts his experienced eye, and soon traverse The whole battalion views, tlieir order due, Their visages and stature as of gods ; 670 Their number last he sums. And now his heart Distends with pride, and hardening in his strength Glories ; for never, since created man. Met such embodied force as named with these Could merit more than that small infantry 675 Warred on by cranes ; though all the giant brood Of Phlegra with the heroic race were joined That fought at Thebes and Ilium, on each side Mixed with auxillar gods ; and whai resounds 554. wnwiDverf, not to be moved. 573. since created mjn, since 556. swage, assuage. man was created. 563. horrid, perhaps here, as in 575. that small infnntrj/, tho the Latin " horridus," bristling. Pygmies, a fabulous people, little 565. ordered, in due order, the more than a foot in height, who shield on the left arm. and the dwelt on the sea-shoi-e, and wer»< Bpear erect in the right hand. attacked by cranes every spiiug. 568. traverse, through and 577. Phlegra. a plain in 3iace- through. donia, in which the rebellious 572. his, probably its. His was Gi.mts perished, the original po.ssessive of " it," as 578. Thebes and lliinn. Allu- well as of" he," as is seen in our sion is made to the ^\'ar of the translation of the Bible. See Gen. Seven against Thebes in Grtece i. 11. : '' The fruit tree yielding and to the Trojan War. In the fruit after his kind." See line latter, heroes fought, assisted by 673. gods. — Ilium, Troy. Book I.J PARADISE LOST. 23 In fable or romance of Other's son, 680 Begirt with British and Anuorlc knights; And all who since, baptized or infidel, Jousted in Aspramont or Montalban, Daniaseo or Morocco or Trebisond, Or whom Biserta sent from Afric shore, 58f When Charlemain with all his peerage fell By Fontarabbla. Thus far these beyond Compare of mortal prowess, yet observed Their dread commander : he, above the rest In shape and gesture proudly eminent, 690 Stood like a tower; his form had not yet lost All her original brightness, nor appeared Less than Archangel ruined and the excess Of glory obscured : as when the sun new risen Looks through the horizontal misty air, o95 Shorn of his beams ; or from behind the moon, In dim eclipse, disastrous twilight sheds On half the nations, and with fear of change Perplexes monarclis ; darkened so, yet shone Above them all the Archangel : but his face 600 Deep scars of thunder had intrenched, and care Sat on his faded cheek, but under brows Of dauntless courage and considerate pride, 580. Uther^s son, King Arthur. 587-589. These, although in 581. Arnioric, of Armorica or prowess above all comparison with Brittany, in the northwest of any heroes of mortal birth, yet France. _ watched and obeyed their dread 682. infidel, unbelieving, commander, whether Pagan or Mohammedan. 595. horizontal, near the hori- 583-587. These are namrs of zon. places mentioned in very old I'o- 597. disastrous, announcing mances. Some of them are found disaster. An eclip.<:e has always In the poem of "Orlando Furi- be^n sup-posed by the ignorant oso," which describes the adven- and superstitious to threaten tures of the Brave llolana.ss«o», feeling; compas- Qll. yet faithful hoio they stood. lion. This depends on behold in line 605 609. amerced, deprived ; pun- 636. different, varying, isbed by loss. Book I.] PARADISE LOST. 25 By me, hare lost our liopcs : but he who reigns Monarch in Heaven, till then as one secure Sat on his throne, upheld hy old repute, Consent, or custom, and his regal state 640 Put forth at full, but still his strength concealed. Which tempted our attempt and wrought our fall. Henceforth his might we know, and know our own, So as not either to provoke, or dread New war provoked ; our better part remains 646 To work in close design, by fraud or guile. What force effected not ; that he no less At length from us may find, who overcomes By force hath overcome but half his foe." Space may produce new worlds ; whereof so rife 650 Tiiere went a fame in Heaven, that he ere long Intended to create ; and therein plant A generation, whom his choice regard Should favor equal to the sons of Heaven : Thither, if but to pry, shall be perhaps 655 Our first eruption, thitber or elsewhere ; For this infernal pit shall never hold Celestial spirits in bondage, nor the abyss Long under darkness cover. But these thoughts Full counsel must mature. Peace is despaired, 660 For who can think submission ? — AVar then, war Open or understood, must be resolved." He spake ; and to confirm his words out flew Millions of ilaining swords, drawn from the thighs Of mighty Cherubim ; the sudden blaze 665 Far round illumined Hell : highly they raged A-gainst the Highest, and fierce with grasped arms 644. provoke, as well as dread, -went so general a fame or ru- governs New war. mor. 646. it;or/fc, work out ; efifect. 655. Thither. See line 650. 648. iWiO, that he who. 659. cocer, cover them. 65C. wUertof so rife there 660. despaired, despairei 0/ xveiu a fame, of which there hopeless. 2G PARADISE LOST. (.Book L Clashed on their sounding shields the din of war, Hurling defiance toward the vault of Heaven. There stood a hill not far, whose grisly top 670 Belched .fire and rolling smoke ; the rest entire Shone with a glossy scurf ; undoubted sign That in his womb was hid metallic ore, The work of sulphur. Thither winged with speed A numerous brigade hastened ; as when bands C7fi Of pioneers, with spade and pickaxe armed. Forerun the royal camp, to trench a field Or cast a rami^art. Mammon led them on, Mammon, the least erected spirit that fell From Heaven ; for even in Heaven his looks and thoughts 680 Were always dowuAvard bent, admiring more The riches of Heaven's pavement, trodden gold, Than aught divine or holy else enjoyed In vision beatific : by him first Men also, and by his suggestion taught, 686 Ransacked the centre, and with impious hands Rifled the bowels of their mother Earth For treasures better hid. Soon had his crew Opened into the hill a spacious wound, And digged out ribs of gold. Let none admire 690 That riches grow in Hell ; that soil may best Deserve the precious bane. And here let those Who boast in mortal things, and wondering tell Of Babel and the works of Memphian kings. Learn how their greatest monuments of fame, mi 671. the rest entire, all the rest, used in its Latiu seuse of undu- 673. his, its. See note on line tiful ; unnatural. 72. 690. admire, vfonder ; beaston> 678. Mammon is a Syriac word ished. meaning Riches, which are here 694. Babel, Babylon, whose personified, as in Matt. vi. 2'4. walls, as well as the Pyramids of •S84. beatijic, making blessed; Egypt, the ivorks of Memphian Heavenly. See 111. 61, 62. kings (see line 307), were among 686. impious is probably here the Seven ^Venders of the ancien world. Book I.J PARADUSE LOST. 27 And strength and art are easily outdone By spirits reprobate, and in an hour, What in an age they, with incessant toil And hands innumerable, scarce perforin. Nigh on the plain in many cells prepared, 700 That underneath had veins of liquid fire Sluiced from the lake, a second multitude With wondrous art founded the massy ore. Severing each kind, and scummed the bullion dross : A third as soon had formed within the ground 705 A various mould ; and from the boiling cells By strange conveyance filled each hollow nook ; As in an organ from one blast of wind To many a row of pipes the sound-board breathes. Anon out of the earth a fabric huge Tlo Rose, like an exhalation, with the sound Of dulcet symphonies and voices sweet, Built like a temple, where pilasters round Were set, and Doric pillars overlaid With golden architrave ; nor did there warn 716 Cornice or frieze, with bossy sculptures graven , The roof was fretted gold. Not Babylon Nor great Alcalro such magnificence Equalled in all their glories, to enshrine Belus or Serapis their gods, or seat 720 Their kings, when Egypt with Assyria strove 697. in an Hour, how ia an hour part of a building which rests im b* performed. mediately ou the columns ; if- is 700. prfparedy made for this the lowest part of the entabla- ourpose. ture, cf which the cornice is th« 702. 5Zm/c?. follows (JignitT/, accompa- 40. hy ivhat best way, hj whrif nies high tank. way we may best return. 27. whom, him whom. Boonil.l PARADfSE LOST. 33 He ceased ; and next lilm Moloch, sceptred king, Stood up, tlic strongest and the fiercest spirit That fought in Heaven, now fiercer by despair : 4£ His trust was with the Eternal to be deemed Equal in strength, and rather than be less Cared not to be at all ; with that care lost Went all his fear ; of God, or Hell, or worse, 49 He recked not ; and these Avords thereafter spake : " My sentence is for open war ; of wiles More unexpert I boast not ; them let those Contrive who need, or when they need, not now : For while they sit contriving, shall the rest, Millions that stand in arms and longing Avait 66 The signal to ascend, sit lingering here. Heaven's fugitives, and for their dwelling-place Accept this dark opprobrious den of shame, The prison of his tyranny Avho reigns By our delay ? No, let us rather choose, 60 Armed Avith hell-flames and fury, all at once O'er Heaven's high towers to force resistless way, Turning our tortures into horrid arms Against the torturer; when to meet the noise Of his almighty engine he shall hear 65 Infernal thunder, and for lightning see Black fire and horror shot Avitli equal rage Among his angels, and his throne itself Mixed Avith Tartarean sulphur and stiange fire, His own invented torments. But perhaps VD The way seems difficult and steep to scale With upright Aving against a higher foe : Let such bethink them, if the sleepy drench 43 Moloch. See 1. 392-405. 69. Tartarean, belonging to 46. The pause in this line is Tartams, or Ilell. after was. 73. such, those to whom the 52 unexpert agrees Mith I. way seems difficult, Stc 65 engine, thunderbolt. 34 PARADISE LOST. [Book U Of that forgetful lake benumb not still, That in our proper motion we ascend 78 Up to our native seat ; descent and fall To us is adverse. AVho but felt of late, When the fierce foe hung on our broken rear Insulting and pursued us through the deep. With what compulsion and laborious flight 30 We sunk thus low ? The ascent is easy then ; The event is feared ; should we again provoke Our stronger, some worse way his wrath may find To our destruction, if there be in Hell Fear to be worse destro}'ed. What can be worse 86 Than to dwell here, driven out from bliss, condemned In this abhorred deep to utter woe ; Where pain of unextinguishable fire Must exercise us without hope of end. The vassals of his anger, wdien the scourge 90 Inexorably and the torturing hour Calls us to penance ? — more destroyed than thus, We should be quite abolished, and expire. What fear we then ? what doubt we to incense His utmost ire ? which, to the height enraged, 96 Will either quite consume us and reduce To nothing this essential (happier far Than miserable to have eternal being !) ; Or, if our substance be indeed divine And cannot cease to be, we are at worst lOO On this side nothing ; and by proof we feel Our power sufficient to disturb hus Heaven, 74. that forgetful lake. See I., 94. what doubt loe, why do w« 266. hesitate. — to incense, to inflamo 75 proper, that which belongs 97. this essential, our being • k) us ; natural. our existence. — happier far 82. The event, what might be which would be a lot far hap the result. pier. 89 exercise, afflict ; torment. 101. On this side nothing, on 91. Inexorabhj. Milton may this side of nothing ; not anmlu here have dictated inexorable. lated. 92 than thus, than we are now. Book II.] PARADISE LOST. 85 And -wltli perpetual inroads to alarm, Though inaccessible, his fatal throne ; Which, If not victory, is yet revenge." loi He ended frowning, and his look denounced Desperate revenge, and battle dangerous To less than gods. On the other side uprose Belial, in act more graceful and humane : A fairer person lost not Heaven ; he seemed iK For dignity composed and high exploit ; But all was false and hollow, though his tonn-ue Dropped manna, and could make the worse appear The better reason, to perplex and dash Maturest counsels ; for his thoughts were low, 115 To vice industrious, but to nobler deeds Timorous and slothful ; yet he pleased the ear, And with persuasive accents thus began : " I should be much for open war, O Peers, As not behind in hate, if what was urged 120 Main reason to persuade immediate war Did not dissuade me most, and seem to cast Ominous conjecture on the whole success ; When he who most excels in fact of arms, In what he counsels and in what excels la Mistrustful, grounds his courage on despair And utter dissolution, as the scope Of all his aim after some dire revenge. First, what revenge ? The towers of Heaven are filled With armed watch, that render all access lac 104. fntnl^ upheld by fate. 121. Main reason, as the main 106. (ffnounced, threatened. reason. 109. Belial. See I. 490-505.— V23.0)ninoiis conjectiire,thn&t- act, manner. — humane, retined ; ening doubt ; anticipation of evil, courteous. 124. he, Moloch. See Knes 111 composed, made. 51-105. —fact, deed or deeds. 116. industrious, assiduously 130. render all access itnpreg- deToted. naWe , make approach impossibl* B6 PARADISE LOST. LBooa: Jl Impregnable ; oft on the bordering deep Encamp their legions, or Avith obscure wing Scout far and wide into the realm of night, Scorning surprise. Or could we break our way By force, and at our heels all Hell should rise 18S With blackest insurrection to confound Heaven's purest light, yet our great enemy All incorruptible would on his throne Sit unpolluted, and the ethereal mould, Incapable of stain, would soon expel 14U Her mischief, and purge off the baser fire, Victorious. Thus repulsed, our final hope Is flat despair : we must -exasperate The almighty victor to spend all his rage, And that must end us ; that must be our cure, 145 To be no more. Sad cure ! for Avho would lose, Though full of pain, this intellectual being, Those thoughts that Avander through eternity, To perish rather, swallowed up and lost In the wide womb of uncreated night, 160 Devoid of sense and motion ? And Avho knows, Let this be good, whether our angry foe Can give It, or will ever ? how he can. Is doubtful ; that he never will, is sure. Will he, so wise, let loose at once his Ire, IB5 Belike through impotence or unaware, To give his enemies their Avish, and end Them In his anger, Avhom his anger saves To punish endless ? AVherefore cease we then, Say they who counsel war ; we are decreed, 180 Reserved, and destined to eternal woe ; 134. surprise, the danger of 149. To jerish rather, prefeir being surprised. — In this line ring to perish, ind the next, supply if. 152. Let this he good, 8uppo8- 138. All incorruptible, not to be ing that this be good, or desirable Unpaired. 156. Belike, perhaps. — impo- 141. Her, its. — mischief, dam- tence. ungovernable rage. »ge, injury. — baser fire is op- 159. What they say ends vrith ^osed to purest light. worse. Book 11.] PARADISE LOST. 91 Whatever doing, what can we suffer more, What can we suffer worse ? — Is this then worst, Tlius sitting, thus consulting, thus in arms? What ! when we fled amain, pui-sued and struck 1« With Heaven's afflicting thunder, and besought The deep to shelter us ? this Hell then seemed • A refuge fi-om those Avounds. Or when we lay Chained on the burning lake ? that sure was wonie. What if the breath that kindled those grim fires, 170 Awaked, should blow them into sevenfold rage, And plunge us in the flames ? or from above Should intermitted vengeance arm again His red right hand to plague us ? What if all Her stores were opened, and this firmament 176 Of Hell should spout her cataracts of fire. Impendent horrors, threatening hideous fall One day upon our heads ; while we, perhaps Designing or exhorting glorious war, Caught in a fiery tempest shall be hurled iso Each on his rock transfixed, the sport and prey Of racking whirlwinds, or forever sunk Under yon boiling ocean, wrapt in chains ; There to converse with everlasting groans, Unrespited, unpitied, unreprieved, 183 Ages of hopeless end ? This would be woi-se. War, therefore, open or concealed, alike My voice dissuades ; for what can force or guile With him, or who deceive his mind, Avhose eye Views all things at one view ? He from Heaven's height 190 All these our motions vain sees and derides ; 166. afflicting. See I. 186. 186. Ag^'s of hopfless end. 172. Or, or what if. thiDugh ages without hope of 175 Hfr refers to vengeance. end. 176. her, its 188. dissuades, discouTa,gea. — 177. Impendent, hanging over what can. what can/orce or ^uile n.s. accomplish 184. converse, be familiar or conversant with. 88 PARADISE LOST. [Book Q Not more almighty to resist our might Than wise to frustrate all our plots and wiles. Shall we then live thus vile, the race of Heaven. Thus trampled, thus expelled, to suffer here IM Chains and these torments ? Better these than vvorse. By my advice ; since fate inevitable Subdues us, and omnipotent decree, The victor's will. To suffer, as to do, Our strength is equal, nor the law unjust 200 That so ordains : this was at first resolved, If we were wise, against so great a foe Contending, and so doubtful what might fall. I iaugh, when those who at the spear are bold And venturous, if that fail them, shrink, and fear 2Ga What yet they know must follow, to endure Exile, or ignominy, or bonds, or pain, The sentence of their conqueror : this is now Our doom, which if we can sustain and bear, Our supreme foe in time may much remit 210 His anger, and perhaps thus far removed Not mind us not offending, satisfied With what is punished : whence these raging fires Will slacken, if his breath stir not their flames. Our purer essence then will overcome 216 Their noxious vapor, or inured not feel ; Or changed at length, and to the place conformed In temper and in nature, will receive Familiar the fierce heat, and void of pain ; This horror will groAV mild, this darkness light : 220 Besides what hope the never-ending flight Of future days may bring, what chance, what change Worth waiting, since our present lot appears 200. equal, equally able. having become accustomed to it 201. this ivas at first resolved, cease to feel it. to this {ViiAtxs,, to suffer as to do) 2\8. temper, constitution oi we must at the beginning have natural condition. brought our mind. 21LV the ^fierce heat as familiar 203. fall, befall. an/l void of pain. 316. or inured not feel^ or, 223. waiting, waitmg for. Book II.] PARADISE LOST. 8S For happy tliougli but ill, for 111 not worst ; If we procure not to oui-selves more woe." 23A Thus Belial, with words clothed in reason's garb, Counselled ignoble ease and peaceful sloth, Not peace ; and after him thus Mammon spake ; •' Either to disenthrone the King of Heaven V»'^e war. if war be best, or to regain 23C Our own right lost : Him to unthrone we then May hope, when everlasting Fate shall yield To fickle Chance, and Chaos judge the strife : The former vain to hope, argues as vain The latter ; for what place can be for us 235 Within Heaven's bound, unless Heaven's lord su- preme We overpower ? Suppose he should relent And publish grace to all, on promise made Of new subjection ; with what eyes could we Stand in his presence humble, and receive 24u Strict laws imposed, to celebrate his throne With warbled hymns, and to his Godhead sing Forced hallelujahs ; while he lordly sits Om- envied sovran, and his altar breathes Ambrosial odors and ambrosial flowers, 249 Our servile offerings ? This must be our task In Heaven, this our delight ; how wearisome Eternity so spent, in worship paid To whom we hate ! Let us not then pursue By force impossible, by leave obtained • 250 Unacceptable, though in Heaven, our state Of splendid vassalage ; but rather seek 224. though, but ill for a hap- 241. celebrate, throng around oy oae, yet not worst for an evil and glorify. one. 249. pursue, seek to continue. 225. Marr->non. Seel. 678-688. 250, 251. The adjectives belong 238. grare, pardon. to state. to PARADISE LOS'I. [Book U Our own good from ourselves, and from our own Live to ourselves, though in this vast recess, Free and to none accountable, preferring 2M Hard liberty before the easy yoke Of servile pomp. Our greatness will appear Tlien most conspicuous, when great things of small, Useful of hurtful, prosperous of adverse We can create ; and in what place soe'er 280 Thrive under evil, and work ease oiit of pain, Through labor and endurance. This deep Avorld Of darkness do w^e dread ? How oft amidst Thick clouds and dark doth t^eaven's all-ruling Sire Choose to reside, his glory unobscured, 265 And with the majesty of darkness round Covers his throne ; from whence deep thunders roar Mustering their rage, and Heaven resembles Hell ! As he our darkness, cannot we his light Imitate when we please ? This desert soil 270 Wants not her hidden lustre, gems and gold ; Nor want we skill or art, from whence to raise Magnificence ; and what can Heaven show more ? Our torments also may in length of time Become our elements, these piercing fires 276 As soft as now severe, our temper changed Into their temper, which must needs remove The sensible of pain. All things Invite To peaceful counsels and the settled state Of order, how in safety best we may 230 Compose our present evils, with regard Of what we are and were, dismissing quite All thought of war. Ye have what I advise." 253. OUT oicn, -what is our stances or matter of whbh we o\vii. are composed. 258. of, out of. 276. temper. See line 218. 260. in what place soever, in 278. sensible of, sensibility to. whatever place ; anywhere. 280. /ioic\ to take counsel how 264. See Psalm xviii. 6-13. implied in counsels. ?75. our elements, the sub- 281. Coinpose, settle ; calm BookH.] paradise lost. 41 He scarce had finished, when such murmur filled The assembly, as when hollow rocks retain 285 The sound of blustering winds, which all night long Had roused the sea, now with hoai'se cadence lull Sea-faring men o'erwatched, whose bark by chance Or pinnace anchors in a craggy bay After the tempest : such applause was heard 290 As Mammon ended, and his sentence pleased, Advising peace ; for such another field They dreaded worse than Hell, so much the fear Of thunder and the sword of jNIichael Wrought still withi^ them ; and no less desire 296 To found this nether empire, which might rise, By policy and long process of time, In emulation opposite to Heaven. AVhich when Beelzebub perceived, than Avhom, Satan except, none higher sat, with grave 300 Aspect he rose, and in his rising seemed A pillar of state ; deep on his front engraven Deliberation sat and public care ; And princely counsel in his face yet shone, Majestic though in ruin : sage he stood, 806 With Atlantean shoulders fit to bear The weight of mightiest monarchies ; his look Drew audience and attention still as night Or summer's noon-tide air ; while thus he spake : " Thrones and Imperial Powers, offspring of Heaven, Ethereal Virtues ! or these titles now 3i] Must we renounce, and, changing style, be called Princes of Hell ? for so the popular vote 287. noio, but now. 300. except, excepted. 288. o'^ericatcheii, having 302. front, forehead, or face, watched too long. 306. Atlantean, like those of 29o. desire, the desire Atlas, who is fabled to ha':-e 29G. tvliich, that it. borne the world on his ghoul- 297. policy, politic arts. ders. 299 Bedzebuh. See I. 78-81. 308. audience, hearing. ft2 PARADISE LOST. [Book 11 Inclines, here to continue, and build up here A growing empire ; doubtless ! while we dream, 316 And know not that the King of Heaven hath doomed This place our dungeon, not our safe retreat Beyond his potent arm, to live exempt From Heaven's high jurisdiction, in new league Banded against his throne ; but to remain aao In strictest bondage, though thus far removed, Under the inevitable curb, reserved His captive multitude ; for he, be sure, In height or depth, still first and last will reign Sole king, and of his kingdom lose no part 325 By our revolt, but over Hell extend His empire, and with iron sceptre rule Us here, as with his golden those in Heaven. What sit we then projecting peace and war ? War hath determined us, and foiled with loss 330 Irrejitarable ; terms of peace yet none Vouchsafed, or sought ; for what peace will be given To us enslaved, but custody severe, And stripes, and arbitrary punishment Inflicted ? and what peace can we return, 335 But to our power hostility and hate. Untamed reluctance, and revenge, though slow, Yet ever plotting how the conqueror least May reap his conquest, and may least rejoice In doing what we most in suffering feel ? 840 Nor will occasion want, nor shall we need With dangerous expedition to invade Heaven, whose high walls fear no assault or siege, Or ambush from the deep. What if we find Some easier enterjDrise ? There is a place 341 (If ancient and prophetic fame In Heaven 315. doubtless. This is said 337. reluctance^ struggling ereeringly, like " forsooth." agaiast. 322. reserved, reserved as. 341. occasion, opportunity 329. What, why. want be wanting. 330. determined, finished. 836. io, to the extent of. BooKiL] PARADISE LOST. 48 Err not), another world, the hapj))' seat Of some new race called Llan, about this time To be created like to us, though less In power and excellence, but favored more 350 Of him who rules above ; so was his will Pronounced among the gods, and by an oath, That shook Heaven's whole circumference, confirmed. Thither let us bend all our thoughts, to learn What creatures there inhabit, of what mould 866 Or substance, how endued, and what their power, And where their weakness, how attempted best, By force or subtilty. Though Heaven be shut. And Heaven's high arbitrator sit secure In his own strength, this place may lie exposed, 360 The utmost border of his kingdom, left To their defence who hold it : here perhaps Some advantageous act may be achieved By sudden onset, either with hell-fire To waste his whole creation, or possess 365 All as our own, and drive, as we were driven, The puny habitants ; or, if not drive. Seduce them to our party, that their God May prove their foe, and with repenting hand Abolish his own works. This would surpass 870 Common revenge, and interrupt his joy In our confusion, and our joy upraise In his disturbance ; when his darling sons. Hurled headlong to partake with us, shall curse Their frail original and faded bliss, 878 Faded so soon. Advise if this be worth Attempting, or to sit in dai-knesS here Hatching vain empires." Thus Beelzebub Pleaded his devilish counsel, first devised 352. See Uebrews vi. 17. 376. Advise, consider. 357. Iiow attempted best, how 377. or, or if it be better, best to be attacked. 370. Pltadtd urged; preMW! 366. drive^ drive out. earuestly. 375 original^ original nature. 44 PARADISE LOST. [Book a fiy Satan, an Before the heavens thou Avert, and at the voice •■ ^ Of God, as with a mantle, didst invest lo V ■■- The rising world of waters dark and deep, Won from the void and formless infinite. Thee I revisit now with bolder wing, ^xi Escaped the Stygian pool, though long detained In that obscure sojourn, wdiile in my flight 15 .^ ^ Through utter and through middle darkness borne, " V With other notes than to the Orphe'an lyre, .^ I sung of Chaos and eternal Night ; y_ Taught by the heavenly Muse to venture down ^ Tlie dark descent, and up to reascend, go ' - Though hard and rare; thee I revisit safe, And feel thy sovran vital lamp ; but thou Revisit'st not these eyes, that roll in vain 4. unapproached. " Dwelling; in with his music not men culy, but the light which no man can ap- also beasts, and even rocks and proach unto." 1 Timothy vi. 16. trees. Avhich moved from their 6. increate perhaps refers to' places to follow the sound of his effluence. golden harp. His Ivre was placed 7. hearest thou rather. This is among the constellations, perhaps a Latinism, meaning dost thou because he was the first who ia- prefer to be called. troduced music into the worahip 10. as ivith a mantle. See of the gods. Psalm ci\. 2.— invest. Seel. l^. the heavenly Muse. ^z^l.Q. 208. 21. rare, seldom tried. 14. Escaped., escaped from.— 22. sovran (sovereign) lamp, Stygian pool. See I. 239. the sun, whose warmth Milton 16. utter. See I. 72. could feel, though he could uot 17. With other notes, " with see its light. Dotes different from those which 22-26. His eyesight had been were sung to the Orphean lyre ; long decaying, and at the time for Milton drew from the Sacred this poem was written was en- Scriptures, and probalily believed tirely gone. He seems uncertain himself to be in some sort in- whether the disease by which his spired ; while the song of Or- blinlness was occasioned was pheus and the Orphic hymn to caused by " gutta serena," drop Night were only the products of serene, ovhy dim suffiiswn,-pvoh human imagination." Orpheus ably cataract. — veiled, veiled »vas a Thracian bard,who charmcJ them. 70 PARADISE LOST, [Book Itt To find thy piercing ray, and find no dawn ; So thick a drop serene hath quenched their orbs, 26 Or dim suffusion veiled. Yet not the more Cease I to wander where the Muses haunt Clear spring, or shady grove, or sunny hill, Smit with the love of sacred song ; but chief Thee, Sion, and the flowery brooks beneath 86 That wash thy hallowed feet and warbling flow, Nightly I visit ; nor sometimes forget Those other two equalled with me in fate. So were I equalled with them in renown. Blind Thamyris and blind Ma3onides, 8S And Tiresias and Phineus, prophets old : Then feed on thoughts that voluntary move Harmonious numbers ; as the wakeful bird Sings darkling, and in shadiest covert hid Tunes her nocturnal note. Thus with the year 40 Seasons return ; but not to me returns Day, or the sweet approach of even or morn, Or sight of vernal bloom, or summer's rose, Or flocks, or herds, or human face divine ; But cloud instead, and ever-during dark 4b Surrounds me, from the cheerful ways of men Cut off, and for the book of knowledge fair 26. Yet not the more cease 7, to a trial of skill, and for his pre- Devertheless I do not on this ac- sumption was by them deprived count cease. of sight. His story was sung by 27. to wander^ that is, in im- Homer, who is also called Moion- ngination, recalling poetic scenes, ides. — the Muses, nine in number, 36. Tiresias was a blind seer or were the goddesses of song, by soothsayer of ITiebes. — Phineus whom poets were inspired. Many was also blind, and gifted by & clear spring in Greece was sa- Apollo with prophetic powers. — cred to the Muses, especially the This line begins, like some other fountain of Ciustalia on Mount lines in MRton, with a foot oi Parnassus, and that of Hippo- three syllables. erene on Mount Helicon, near 37. feed, I feed. — voluntary, oi nrhich was a shady grove, their themselves; without effort, peculiar seat. See 1. 15. 3S. the wakeful bird, the laght- 30. btooks, Kedron and Siloa. ingale See 1.10-12. 45. dark, dAvknesa. 35. Thamyris was a Thracian 47. for, instead of. bard who challenged the Muses Book III.] PAR-AD ISE LOST. 71 Presented with a universal blank Of Nature's works to me expunged and rased, And wisdom at one entrance quite shut out. 64 So much the rather thou, celestial light ! Shine inward, and the mind through all her powers Irradiate ; there plant eyes, all mist from thence Purge and disperse, that I may see and tell jQf things invisible to mortal sight. 5fi Now had the Almighty Father from above, From the pure empyrean where he sits High throned above all height, bent down his eye, His own works and their works at once to view. About him all the Sanctities of Heaven 6U Stood thick as stars, and from his sight received Beatitude past utterance ; on his right The radiant image of his glory sat. His only Son : on Earth he first beheld Our two first parents, yet the only two 68 Of mankind, in the happy garden placed, Reaping immortcd fruits of joy and love, Uninterrupted joy, unrivalled love. In blissful solitude. He then surveyed Hell and the gulf between, and Satan there TO Coasting the wall of Heaven on this side Night, In the dun air sublime, and ready now To stoop with wearied wings and willing feet On the bare outside of this World, that seemed 76 49. rased, erased ; effaced. 71. on this side Night, on this 57. empyrean. See II. 771. side of Night, the utter diivknees. 69. their. The antecedent is See line 16. t{-oris, just before. 72. the dim air, the middle 60. Sn7ictities, holy beings. darkness, where was a glimmer' 62. Bertn7»^f, blesaednes^s. ing dawn. Sec II. 103-f-1042. — 03. image. "The bri^rhtness sublime. See II. 528. of his glory, and the express iui- 74. World, universe ; whoU age of his person " Hebrews i. 3. system of created things See II 65. yet., as yet 10.51-1055. 72 PARADISE LOST. [Book III tJncertaIn which, in ocean or in air. Him God beholding from his prospect high, Wherein past, present, future he beholds, Thus to his only Sou foreseeing spake : " Only-begotten Son, seest thou what rage so Transports our Adversary, whom no bounds Prescribed, no bars of Hell, nor all the chains Heaped on him there, nor yet the main abyss Wide interrupt, can hold ; so bent he seems On desperate revenge, that shall redound ?g Upon his own rebellious head? And now, Through all restraint broke loose, he wings his way Not far off Heaven, in the precincts of light, Directly towards the new-created world, And Man there placed, with purpose to assay 90 If him by force he can destroy, or worse, By some false guile pervert ; and shall pervert ; For man will hearken to his glozing lies, And easily transgress the sole command, Sole pledge of his obedience : so will fall 95 He and his faithless progeny. Whose fliult ? Whose but his own ? Ingrate, he had of me All he could have : I made him just and right, Sufficient to have stood, though free to faU. Such I created all the ethereal Powers leo And Spirits, both them who stood, and them who failed ; Freely they stood who stood, and fell who fell. Not free, what proof could they have given sincere Of true allegiance, constant faith, or love, Where only Avhat they needs must do appeared, 105 76. hi ocean or in air, icncer- 98. I marie hitn jiixt and right tain which. See Ecclesijv^tes vii. 29. 83. main, vast. 103. Not free, if they had nol 84. Wide /;iirrn<;i« (participle), been free. spread wide between. 105. appeared, would have ap 88. precincts of light, regions peared. bordering on the realms of light. Book III.] PARADISE LOST. 73 Not what they would? What praise couhl they receive ? What pleasure I from such obedience paid, When will and reason (reason also is choice), Useless and vain, of freedom both despoiled, Made passive both, had served necessity, UO Not me ? They therefore, as to right belonged. So were created, nor can justly accuse Their Maker, or their making, or their flite ; As if predestination overruled Their will, disposed by absolute decree 115 Or high foreknowledge. They themselves decreed Their own revolt, not I : if I foreknew, Foreknowledge had no influence on their fliult. Which had no less proved certain unforeknown. So without least impulse or shadow of fate, 120 Or aught by me immutably foreseen, They trespass, authors to themselves in all, Both what they judge and what they choose ; for so I formed them free, and free they must remain, Till they enthrall' themselves ; I else must change 125 Their nature, and revoke the high decree Unchangeable, eternal, which ordained Their freedom ; they themselves ordained their fall. The first sort hy their own suggestion fell. Self-tempted, self-depraved : Man falls, deceived lao By the other first ; Man therefore shall find grace, The other none. In mercy and justice both, Through Heaven and Earth, so shall my glory excel But mercy first and last shall brightest shine." Thus while God spake, ambrosial fragrance filled AJl Heaven, and in the blessed spirits elect 18€ 110. had, would have. 117. if, though. 111. aston^kthdoiiged,&s\fd.3, 129. The Jirst sort, the rebel consistent with right. angels 74 PARADISE L03T. [Book III Sense of neA^ joy ineffable diffused. Beyond compare the Son of God was seen Most glorious ; in him all his Father shone Substantially expressed, and in his face 140 Divine compassion visibly appeared, Love without end, and without measure grace, Which uttering, thus he to his Father spake ; " O Father, gracious was that word which closed Thy sovran sentence, that man should find grace ; For which both Heaven and Earth shall high extol Thy praises, with the innumerable sound 147 Of hynnis and sacred songs, wherewith thy throne Encompassed shall resound thee ever blest. For should Man finally be lost, should Man, 150 Thy creature late so lov'ed, thy youngest son. Fall circumvented thus by fraud, though joined With his own folly ? that be from thee far, That far be from thee. Father, who art j udge Of all things made, and judgest only right. 156 Or shall the Adversary thus obtain His end, and frustrate thine ? shall he fulfil His malice, and thy goodness bring to naught ; Or proud return, though to his heavier doom, Yet with revenge accomplished, and to Hell leo Draw after him the whole race of mankind. By him corrupted ? or wilt thou thyself Abolish thy creation, and unmake, For him, what for thy glory thou hast made ? So should thy goodness and thy greatness both 16! Be questioned and blasphemed Avithout defence " To wliom the great Creator thus replied : O Son, in Avhom my soul hatli chief delight, 110. See Ileb. i. 3, where MUton 149. resound^ praise ; celebrate eads " iBubstauce " for " person." 153-155. See Geuesia y.viii. 26 Book III.] PARADISE LOST. 75 Son of my bosom, Son who art alone My word, my Avisdom, and efl'ectual might, 170 All hast thou spoken as my thoughts are, ail As my eternal purpose hath decreed. Man shall not quite be lost, but saved who will ; Yet not of will in him, but grace in me Freely vouchsafed ; once more I will renew 178 His lapsed powers, though forfeit and enthralled By sin to foul exorbitant desires ; Upheld by me yet once more he shall stand On even ground against his mortal foe ; By me upheld, that he may know hoAV frail 18C His fallen condition is, and to me owe All his deliverance, and to none but me. Some I have chosen of peculiar grace Elect above the rest — so is my will ; — The rest shall hear me call, and oft be warned 185 Their sinful state, and to appease betimes The incensed Deity, while offered grace Invites ; for I will clear their senses dark What may suffice, and soften stony hearts To pray, repent, and bring obedience due. 190 To prayer, repentance, and obedience due, Though but endeavored with sincere intent. Mine ear shall not be slow, mine eye not shut ; And I will place within them as a guide My umpire Conscience, whom if they will hear, iSfi Light after light well used they shall attain. And to the end persisting safe arrive. This my long sufferance and my daj cf grace They who neglect and scorn shall never taste ; 176. lapsed, fallen from a state 192. Thougli but endeavored, of innocence or pei-fectioa. though only attempted. 185. teamed, warned of; re- lUo. hear, obey. See Luke xvi minded of. 29. 189. What 7vay sufiire, so far as 197. to the end persisting. "He nteds or may besuffuieut. — so/tfn that endureth to the end shall be sto7it/ hearts. See Ezek. xxxvi. 26 saved." Matthew x. 22. 76 PARADISE LOST. [Book IIL But hard be hardened, blind be blinded more, aOO That they may stumble on and deeper fall ; And none but such from mercy I exclude. But yet all is not done ; Man disobeying, Disloyal breaks his fealty, and sins Against the high supremacy of Heaven, 201 Affecting Godhead, and so, losing all. To expiate his treason hath nought left, But to destruction sacred and devote He with his whole posterity must die, Die he or Justice must ; unless for him 210 Some other able, and as willing, pay The rigid satisfaction, death for death. Say, heavenly Powers, Avhere shall we find such love ? Which of ye will be mortal to redeem Man's mortal crime, and just the unjust to save ? 216 Dwells in all Heaven charity so dear ? " He asked, but all the heavenly choir stood mute, And silence was in Heaven : on Man's behalf Patron or intercessor none appeared ; Much less that durst upon his own head draw 22C The deadly forfeiture, and ransom set. And now without redemption all mankind Must have been lost, adjudged to death and Hell By doom severe, had not the Son of God, In whom the fulness dwells of love divine, 226 His dearest mediation thus renewed : " Father, thy word is passed, INIan shall find grace And shall grace not find means, that finds her way. The speediest of thy winged messengers, To visit all thy creatures, and to all 23J 206. Affecting, aiming at ; as- 218. silence. " There was si piling to. See Gen. iii. 5. lence in Heaven " Rev. viii. 1. 208. snrreff, dedicated. — de- 22b. fuhiess. " In hijn dwell- vote, devoted. eth all the fulness of the Godh3a«J 216. just. " The just for the bolily Coiossiaus ii. 9. unjust." 1 Peter iii. 18. BooKni.] PARADISE LOST. 77 Ccmes unprevented, unimplored, unsought ? Happy for INIan, so comino- ! he her aid Can never seek, once dead in sins and lost ; Atonement for himself or offering meet, Indebted and undone, hath none to bring. asa Behold me then ; me for him, life for life I offer ; on me let thine anger fall ; Account me Man : I for his sake will leave Thy bosom, and this glory next to thee Freely put off, and for him lastly die 210 Well pleased ; on me let Death wreak all his rage. Under his gloomy power I shall not long Lie vanquished ; thou hast given me to possess Life in myself forever ; by thee I live, Though now to Death I yield, and am his due, 245 All that of me can die ; yet that debt paid. Thou wilt not leave me in the loathsome grave His prey, nor suffer my unspotted soul Forever with corruption there to dwell ; But I shall rise victorious, and subdue 250 My vanquisher, spoiled of his vaunted spoil ; Death his death's wound shall then receive, and stoop Inglorious, of his mortal sting disarmed. I through the ample air in triumph high Shall lead Hell captive maugre Hell, and show 255 The powers of darkness bound. Thou, at the sight Pleased, out of Heaven shalt look down and smile, While by thee raised I ruin all my foes, Death last, and with his carcass glut the grave : Then with the multitude of my redeemed 26C 231. unprevented, without pre- 247-249. See Psalm xtI. 10. rious supplication or entreaty, as 2bb. captive. "He led cap- a free gift. tiyity captire." Ephes. iy. 8. QS&. dead in sins. See Ephe- See also Psalm Ixviii. IS. — »ja«- sians, ii. 1, 5. gr?, notwithstanding ; in spite of. 244. Life in myself. " For as 258. /•?//«, overthrow, the Father hath life in himself, so 259. Death last. " The last hath he given to the Son to have enemy that shall be destroyed is life in himself " John v. 26. death." 1 Corinthians xv. 26. yg PARADISE LOST. [Book 111 Shall enter Heaven, long absent, and return, Father, to see thy face, wherein no cloud Of anger shall remain, but peace assured And reconcilement ; wrath shall be no more Thenceforth, but in thy presence joy entire." 265 His words here ended, but his meek aspect Silent yet spake, and breathed immortal love To mortal men, above v/hicli only shone Filial obedience : as a sacrifice Glad to be offered, he attends the will 270 Of his great Father. Admiration seized All Heaven, what this might mean and whither tend Wondering ; but soon the Almighty thus replied t " O thou in Heaven and Earth the only peace Found out for mankind under wrath ! O thou 275 My sole complacence ! well thou know'st how dear To me are all my works, nor ]\Ian the least. Though last created, that for him I spare Thee from my bosom and right hand, to save, By losing theej(ftwhile, the whole race lost. 28C Thou, therefore,' whom thou only canst redeem Their nature also to thy nature join. And be thyself man among men on earth, Made flesh, when time shall be, of virgin seed, By wondrous birth ; be thou in Adam's room 288 The head of all mankind, though Adam's son. As in him perish all men, so in thee. As from a second root, shall be restored 265. 3oy entire. " In thy pres- pleasure or joy. See Matthew iiL ence is fulness of joy." Psalm 17. xvi. 11. 282. Their (of tho.se) contains 270. attends^ waits ; waits to the antecedent of whom in the know. preceding line. 271. Admiration, surprise and 287-289. " For as in Adam all wonder. die, even so in Christ shall all be 276. complacence^ cause of made alive." See 1 Cor. xv. 22. «ooK III.] PARADISE LOST. 79 As many as are restored, without thee none. His crime makes guilty all his sons ; thy merit SM Imputed shall absolve them who renounce Their own both righteous and unrighteous deeds, And live in thee tran>planted, and from thee Receive new life. So Man, as is most just, Shall satisfy for JNIan, be judged and die, 391 And dying rise, and rising with him raise His brethren ransomed with his own dear life. So heavenly love shall outdo hellish hate, Giving to death, and dying to redeem, So dearly to redeem what hellish hate 80O So easily destroyed, and still destroys In those who, when they may, accept not grace. Nor shalt thou by descending to assume Man's nature lessen or degrade thine own. Because thou hast, though throned in highest bliss, 306 Equal to God and equally enjoying Godlike fruition, quitted all to save A world from utter loss, and hast been found By merit more than birthright Son of God, Found worthiest to be so by being ojood, 810 Far more than great or high ; becaiBe in thee Love hath abounded more than glory abounds ; Therefore thy humiliation shall exalt With thee thy manhood also to this throne : Here shalt thou sit incarnate, here shalt reign S15 Both God and Man, Son both of God and Man, Anointed universal King : all power I give thee ; reign forever, and assume Thy merits ; under thee, as head supreme, Thrones, Princedoms, Powers, Dominions, I reduce ; A.11 knees to thee shall bow, of them that bide 821 305. Look forward to line 313. 317. All poioer. See Matthew* 307. fruition^ happiness de- xxviii. 18. rived from use or possession. 321. All knees to thee shall bow 515. Here shalt thou sit. See See PhiUppians ii. 9-11. Ephes. 1. 20, 21. 80 PARADISE LOST [Book ID fn Heaven, or Earth, or under Earth in Hell. When thou, attended gloriously from Heaven, Shalt in the sky appear, and from thee send The summoning Archangels to proclaim 825 Thy dread tribunal, forthwith from all winds The living, and forthwith the cited dead Of all past ages, to the general doom Shall hasten, such a peal shall rouse their sleep. Then, all thy saints assembled, thou shalt judge 330 Bad men and angels ; they arraigned shall sink Beneath thy sentence ; Hell, her numbers full, Thenceforth shall be forever shut. Meanwhile The World shall burn, and from her ashes spring New heaven and earth, wherein the just shall dwell, And after all their tribulations long 336 See golden days, fruitful of golden deeds. With joy and love triumphing, and fair truth. Then thou thy regal sceptre shalt lay by, For regal sceptre then no more shall need ; 340 God shall be all in all. But all ye gods. Adore him, who to compass all this dies ; Adore the Son and honor him as me ! " No sooner had the Almighty ceased, but all The multitude of angels, Avith a shout dis Loud as from numbers without number, sweet As from blest voices, uttering joy, Heaven rung With jubilee, and loud hosannas filled The eternal regions. Lowly reverent 328-329. See 1 Thess. iv. 16, 17 ; also shall the Son himself be sub- Matt, xxiv. 31 ; 1 Cor. xv. 28. ject unto him that put all thing* 327. cited, summoned. " The under him, that God may be all hour is coming, in the which all in all." 1 Cor. xv. 28. that are in the graves shall hear 343. hoixor. " That all men his voice." John v. 28. should honor the Son. even as 334,335. See 2 Peter iii. 10-13; they honor the Fathei ' John Revelation xxi. 1. v. 23. 340. need, be necessary. 345. muWtude is construed 341. "And when all things with uttering, in the case ind« shall be subdued unto him, then pendent. Book III.] PARADISE LOST. 81 Towards either throne they bow, and to the ground With solemn adoration down they cast jJSl Their crowns, inwove with amarant and gold ; Immortal amarant ! a flower which once In Paradise, fast by the Tree of Life, Began to bloom ; but soon for Man's ofience 335 To Heaven removed where fii'st it grew, there grows And flowers aloft, shading the fount of life ; And where the river of bliss through midst of Heaven Rolls o'er Elysian flowers her amber stream : With these tli^t never fide the spirits elect 360 Bind their resplendent locks, inwreathed Avith beams ; NoAv in loose garlands thick thrown off, the bright Pavement, that like a sea of jasper shone, Impurpled with celestial roses smiled. Then, crowned again, their golden harps they took, Harps ever tuned, that glittering by their side 366 Like quivers hung, and Avith preamble sweet Of charming symphony they introduce Their sacred song, and Avaken raptures high ; No voice exempt, no voice but Avell could join 370 Melodious part, such concord is In Heaven. Thee, Father, firet they sung, omnipotent, Immutable, immortal, infinite, Eternal King ; thee, author of all being, Fountain of light, thyself invisible 375 Amidst the glorious brightness Avhere thou sitt'st Throned inaccessible, but Avhen thou shad'sfc The full blaze of thy beams, and, through a cloud 352. Their crowns. See Rev. iv. fields or gardens, in the Greek 10. — amarant., from the Greek mythologv, were the abode of " amarantos," amarantli. happy spirits after death. 354. /a3. s.'jone. " And be fore the 358. the river of bliss. See Rev. throne there was a sea of glass ^^i-l- like unto crystal." Rev.ivG 3o9. Elysian. The Elysian 377. but, except 6 B2 PARADISE LOST. [Book HI. Drawn round about thee like a radiant shrine, Dark with excessrve bright thy skirts appear, 380 Yet dazzle Heaven, that brightest Sera})him Approach not, but with both Avlngs veil their eyes. Thee next they sang of all creation first, Begotten Son, divine similitude, In whose conspicuous countenance, without cloud 385 Made visible, the almighty Father shines, \Vhom else no creature can behold ; on thee Impressed the effulgence of his glory abides ; Transfused on thee his ample Spirit rests. He Heaven of heavens and all the powers therein 390 By thee created, and by thee threw down The aspiring Dominations. Thou that day Thy Father's dreadful thunder didst not spare, Nor stop the flaming chariot-wheels that shook Heaven's everlasting frame, while o'er the necks 395 Thou drov'st of warring angels disarrayed. Back from pursuit thy powers with loud acclaim Thee only extolled, Son of thy Father's might, To execute fierce vengeance on his foes : Not so on INIan ; him through their malice fallen, 400 Father of mercy and grace, thou didst not doom So strictly, but much more to pity incline. No sooner did thy dear and only Son Perceive thee purposed not to doom frail man So strictly, but much more to pity inclined, 406 , He, to appease thy wrath and end the strife Of mercy and justice in thy face discerned, Regardless of the bliss wherein he sat 880. h-ight, 'brightness. of the Father, he hath declared 882. veil their eyes. See Isaiah him." .John i. 18. i1.2. 391. By thee. See Coloss. i. 16 383, 384. See Colossians i. 15. 396. disarrayed^ thi-o^vn out of 387. else^ iu no other way. — their ranks. can behold. " No man hath seen 402. incline, didst incline. God at any time ; the ouly-be- 406. -He, than he. jotten Son, which is in the bosom Book III.] PARADISE LOST. gfl Second to thee, offered himself to die For Man's offence. O unexampled love, ilO Love nowhere to be found less than divine ! Hail, Son of God, Saviour of men ! thy name Shall be the copious matter of my song Henceforth, and never shall my harp thy praise Forget, nor from thy Father's praise disjoin. m, Thus they in Heaven, above the starry sphere, ITieir happy hours in joy and hymning spent. Meanwhile upon the firm opacous globe Of this round World, whose first convex divides The luminous inferior orbs enclosed 420 From Chaos and the inroad of darkness old, Satan alighted walks. A globe far off It seemed, now seems a boundless continent. Dark, waste, and Avild, under the frown of night Starless exposed, and ever-threatening storms 425 Of Chaos blustering round, inclement sky ; Save on that side fi-om which the wall of Heaven, Though distant far, some small reflection gains Of glimmering air, less vexed with tempest loud : Here walked the Fiend at large in spacious field. 430 As when a vulture on Imaiis bred, Whose snowy ridge the roving Tartar bounds. Dislodging from a region scarce of prey To gorge the flesh of lambs or yeanling kids On hills where flocks are fed, flies toward the springs Of Ganges or Hydaspes, Indian streams ; 433 But in his way lights on the barren plaii.3 413. matter, euhject. the ancient astronomy, was in 41o. rf'5;oj/i, disjoin thy praise, the centre of this sphere. — cfi- ttt'^ -X ^'^^ ^^' 103-t-1055, and vides, sets apart ; separates from 111. rO-(6. Chaos. 419. World. See line 74, and 431. Imaus, a range of moun- note. — first convex, outermost tains on the north of India. sphere, enclosing; the inferior 436. Hydaspes, s.hvvinch of fh* orbs. The Earth, according to Indus. B4 PARADISE LOST. [Book III Of Serlcana, where Chineses drive With sails of wind their cany wagons light : So on this windy sea of Land the Fiend 440 Walked up and down alone, bent on his prey ; Alone, for other creature in this place. Living or lifeless, to be found was none ; None yet, but store hereafter from the earth Up hither like aerial vapors flew 445 Of all things transitory and vain, when sin With vanity had filled the works of men ; Both all things vain, and all who in vain things Built their fond hopes of glory or lasting fame, Or happiness in this or the other life : 450 All who have their reward on earth, the fruits Of painful superstition and blind zeal, Nought seeking but the praise of men, here find Fit-retribution, empty as their deeds. All the unaccomplished works of Nature's hand, 455 Abortive, monstrous, or unkindly mixed, Dissolved on earth, fleet hither, and in vain, Till final dissolution, wander here, Not in the neighboring moon, as some have dreamed ; Those argent fields more likely habitants 46C Translated saints, or middle spirits hold Betwixt the angelical and human kind. Hither of ill-joined sons and daughters born First from the ancient world those giants came, With many a vain exploit, though then renowned : 438. Sericana, or Serica, a bright) ,^eW5 more probably bold name ancieutly applied to the as their inhabitants translated regions of Central and Eastern saints, or spirits middle between Asia, in which are vast sandy the angelic and the human kind, plains. Over these, the inhabi- — Translated^ removed from tants are said to drive light car- earth, riages furnished with sails. 4G3. ill-joined. See Genesis vi. 444. store^ abundance. 1, 2. 456. unkindly^ not according 464. those giants. " There were to their kind. giants in the earth in those days.'- 46l 4P2. Those argent (silvery Gen. vi. 4. Book III] PARADISE LOST. 85 The builders next of Babel on the plain Of Sennaar, and still with vain design New Babels, had they wherewithal, would build : Others came single ; he Avho, to be deemed A god, leaped fondly into ^tna flames, Empedocles ; and he who, to enjoy Plato's Elysium, leaped into the sea, Cledmbrotus ; and many more too long, Embryos and idiots, eremites and friars. White, black, and gray, with all their trumpery. Here pilgrims roam, that strayed so far to seek In Golgotha him dead avIio lives in Heaven ; And they who, to be sure of Paradise, Dying put on the weeds of Dominic, Or in Franciscan think to pass disguised : They pass the planets seven, and pass the fixed, 470 476 480 466. Bahel. See Genesis xi. 1-9. 467. Sennaar J Shinar, the plain of Babylon. 468. ha'l they whereivithal, if they had the materials. 471. Empedocles was a cele- brated philosopher of Sicily, who lived in the fifth century befoi-e Christ. Tradition related that he leaped fo7iiJly (foolishly) into jEtna flames, that he might, in consequence of his sudden disap- pearance, be deemed a god. One of his sandals, however, was throflm out by the volcano, and the manner of his death thus made known. — hf. Cleombro- tus, a Grecian youth, is said to have destroyed himself by leap- Vug into the sea, after reading Plato's description of the liap{)i- ness of a future state, that he Might at once enjoy it. 473. ton long, of whom it would be too long to tell. 474. eremites, hermits. 47-5 The different orders of friars in the Roman church are iistinguished by their drese, the Carmelites or White-friars wear- ing a white robe, the Domin- icans or Black-friars a black robe, and the Franciscans or Gray-fi-iars a gray or hght- brown robe. 476. pilgrims, to Jerusalem and the Holy Sepulchre. 477. Golgotha. See Matthew xxvii. 33. 478. to be sure of Paradise. It was once a superstition of some members of the church of Rome, that to be clothed at the time of death in a friar's habit or weeds, insured an entrance into heaven. 481-483. This is according to the notions of the ancient, or Ptolemaic, .system of astronomy. From the Earth, the centre of the Universe, they pass the jdnnets seven, our planetary or solar sys- tem, and beyond this jjass the Ji.red, the firmament or sphere of the fixed stars, and still be- yond, that crystalline splicre, th« heaven clear as crystal, to which the Ptolemaics attributed a sort of Ubration or shaking ( the trepir B6 PARADISE LOST. [Book III And that crystalline sphere whose balance weighs The trepidation talked, and that first-moved ; And now Saint Peter at Heaven's wicket seems To wait them with his keys, and now at foot 485 Of Heaven's ascent they lift their feet, when lo I A violent cross-wind from either coast Blows them transverse, ten thousand leagues awry Into the devious air : then might ye see Cowls, hoods, and habits, Avith their ^vearers, tost 490 And fluttered into rags ; then relics, beads, Indulgences, dispenses, pardons, bulls. The sport of winds : all these, up-whirled alofl, Fly o'er the backside of the world f:ir off Into a Limbo large and broad, since called 495 The Paradise of Fools, to few unknown Long after, now unpeopled and untrod. All this dark globe the Fiend found as he passed, And long he wandered, till at last a gleam Of dawning light turned thitherward in haste 500 His travelled steps : far distant he descries, Ascending by degrees magnificent Up to the wall of Heaven, a structure high. At top whereof, but far more inch, appeared The work as of a kingly palace-gate, 505 dation so much talked of) to ac- 4S9. devious^ out of their track count for certain irres^ularities ia or road. the motions of the heavenly bodies, 492. In the Roman church, m- jtnd farthest tliai first -viot-ed, dulgences iiva remissions of tha the Primum Mobile, the sphere penalties of sin, granted b.y the which was both the first moved Pope. — dispenses^ oi dispeusa- tiud the first mover, communicat- tions, are permissions to dispense Ing its motion to all the lower or with certain rules of the church. Interior spheres. The Crystalline He also grants pardons for sins Is described either as external to committed. Certain letters which the Primum Mobile, or as com- contain his decrees or decisions bined with it. are called hulls. 484, 485. Milton alludes here 495. L/wta, abordeinng region to the notion that Saint Peter or place of confinement, literally holds the keys of Heaven 500. thitherward, to itself. md keeps the gate. 502. degrees., stairs. See linei!ilC BooKlIT.j PARADISE LOST. 87 With frontispiece of diamond and gold Embellished ; thick with sparkling orient gems The portal shone, inimitable on earth By model, or by shading pencil drawn. The stairs were such as whereon Jacob saw bic Angels ascending and descending, bands Of guardians bright, when he from Esau fled To Padan-arani, in the field of Luz Dreaming by night under the open sky, And waking cried, This is the gate of Heaven. 515 Each stair mysteriously was meant, nor stood There always, but drawn up to Heaven sometimes Viewless ; and underneath a bright sea flowed Of jasper, or of liquid pearl, whereon Who after came from Earth sailing arrived 52u Wafted by angels, or flew o'er the lake Rapt in a chariot drawn by fiery steeds. The staii-s were then let down, whether to dare The Fiend by easy ascent, or aggravate His sad exclusion from the doors of bliss ; 526 Direct against which opened from beneath, Just o'er the blissful seat of Paradise, A passage down to the Earth, a passage wide, Wider by far than that of after-times Over mount Sion, and, though that were large, 530 Over the Promised Land to God so dear. By which, to visit oft those happy tribes, On high behests his angels to and fro Passed frequent, and his eye with choice regard From Paneas, the fount of Jordan's flood, 535 &0Q. frontispiece, the face of a bll. fiery steeds. See 2 Kings building. ii. 11. 509. By moflel, 9r by shading 530. and, and wider than that. pencil drawn, by sculpture or by 531 with choice recant, i)a.ssed painting. with choice regard, with special 510-515. See Gen. xxviii. favor. 518. Viewless, -was viewless ; 535. Pnnens, Dan. This Avas a beyond the sight. town in the northernmost part of 520. IKAo, whoever Palestine or the lloly Land, near 88 PARADISE LOST. [Book III To Beersaba, where the Holy Land Bordei-s on Egypt and the Arabian shore ; So wide the opening seemed, where bounds were set To darkness, such as bound the ocean wave. Satan from hence, now on the lower stair,, 540 That scaled by steps of gold to Heaven gate, Looks down with wonder at the sudden view Of all this World at once. As when a scout. Through dark and desert ways with peril gone All night, at last by break of cheerful dawn 64S Obtains the brow of some high-climbing hill, Which to his eye discovers unaware The goodly prospect of some foreign land First seen, or some renowned metropolis With glistering spires and pinnacles adorned, 556 Which now the rising sun gilds with his beams; — Such wonder seized, though after Heaven seen, The spirit malign, but much more envy seized At sight of all this World beheld so fair. Round he surveys (and well might, Avhere he stood 555 So high above the circling canopy Of night's extended shade) from eastern point Of Libra to the fleecy star that bears Andromeda for off Atlantic seas, Beyond the horizon ; then from pole to pole 660 He views in breadth, and without longer pause Down right into the World's first region throws His flight precipitant, and winds with easo Through the pure marble air his oblicjue way Ihe sources of the Jordan. Beer- the fieecy star. As seen from ttie iheba, or Beersaba, was on the Earth, the constellation An'i^oni' southern border, or Arnhian eda appears above Aries, and ^hore. " From Dan even to Beer- being to the west of it may be Bheba" (1 Kings iv. 25) described said by a European to be borue the length of the land. far off Atlantic seas. 546. Obtains, reaches. 563. precipitant, headlong. 557-560. R-om farthest east to 564. inarhle, niurhle-hke ia lt# west : that is, through si.>i signs clearness and brightness, of the Zodiac, from Libra to Aries, Book III.] PARADISE LOST. 89 Amongst innumerable stars, that shone 66S Stai-s distant, but nigh hand seemed other worlds ; Or other worlds they seemed, or happy isles, Like those Hesperian gardens famed of old, Fortunate fields, and groves, and flowery vales. Thrice happy isles ; but who dwelt happy there oto He stayed not to inquire. Above them all The golden sun, in splendor likest Heaven, Allured his eye ; thither his course he bends Through the calm firmament — but up or down, By centre or eccentric, hard to tell, 675 Or longitude — where the great luminary. Aloof the vulgar constellations thick That from his lordly eye keep distance due, Dispenses light from far : they, as they move Their starry dance in numbers that compute 580 Days, months, and years, toward his all-cheering lamp Turn swift their various motions, or are turned By his magnetic beam, that gently warms The Universe, and to each inward part With gentle penetration, though unseen, 58£ Shoots invisible virtue even to the deep ; So wondrously was set his station bright. There lands the Fiend, a spot like which perhaps Astronomer in the sun's lucent orb Through his glazed optic tube yet never saw. 690 bQQ. Stars fl I slant, &sstR.TSV!\iexi 575. By centre or eccentric, distant. — ?? /^/i AaHt/, when near, whether towards or from the 567. Or, either. centre. — hard, it would be hard. 568. Hfsperinn gardens. The 576. Or longitude, or whether beautiful gardens of the Ilesper- east or west. idey, or mm phs who guarded the 577. J 'oof, aloof from. — vuU golden apples of Juno (Iljra), gar, common. were situated far to the west, as 580. nitmhers, measures. were also tlie Fortunnti- fif.lds. ov 583. magnetic, ntt\-vi.ctiYe, Islands of the Ulessed. in which 586. virtue, power. were the Elysian Fields. 590 glazed optic tube. See I 674. vp or down, whether north 288. or south. aO PARADISE LOST. [Book III The place lie found beyond expression bright, Compared with aught on earth, metal or stone ; Not all parts like, but all alike informed Witlr radiant light, as glowing iron with fire ; If metal, part seemed gold, part silver clear ; 69S If stone, carbuncle most or chrysolite, Ruby or topaz, to tlie twelve that shone In Aaron's breastplate, and a stone besides Imagined rather oft than elsewhere seen. That stone, or like to that, wliich here below 600 Philosophers in vain so long have sought ; In vain, though by their powerful art they bind Volatile Hermes, and call up unbound In various shapes old Proteus from the sea, Drained through a limbec to his native form. 605 What wonder then if fields and regions here Breathe forth elixir pure, and rivers run Potable gold, when with one virtuous touch The arch-chemic sun, so far from us remote, Produces, with terrestrial humor mixed, 610 Here in the dark so many precious things 593. 7?i/br??ie Look'st from thy sole dominion like the god ;^s^ Of this new Avorld, at whose sight all the stars , 'tj' Hide their diminished heads, to thee I call, 35 angels from Heaven. It is de- late. — had been, might have scribed in Book VI. been. — warned, warned cf. 6. ivhile thne teas, while there 30. in his meridian tower, at was time ; before it should be too his noon-day height. 7 ^5 1 3d PARADISE LOST. [Book IV But with no friendly voice, and add thy name, Sun ! to tell thee how I hate thy beams, Tliat bring to my remembrance from what state 1 fell, how glorious once above thy sphere ; Till pride and worse ambition threw me down, IQ Warring in Heaven against Heaven's matchless king-. Ah, wherefore ? he deserved no such return From me, whom he created what T was [n that bright eminence, and with his good Upbraided none ; nor was his service hard : 15 What could be less than to afford him praise, The easiest recompense, and pay him thanks. How due ! yet all his good proved ill in me. And wrgught but malice ; lifted up so high I sdeined subjection, and thought one step higher 50 Would set me highest, and in a moment quit The debt immense of endless gratitude. So burdensome still paying still to owe ; Forgetful what from him 1 still received, And understood not that a grateful mind 55 By owing owes not, but still pays, at once Indebted and discharged ; what burden then ? O had his powerful destiny ordained Me some inferior angel, I had stood Then happy ; no unbounded hope had raised 60 Ambition. Yet why not ? some other power As great might have aspired, and me though mean Drawn to his part ; but other powers as great Fell not, but stand unshaken, fi'om within Or from without to all temptations armed. 65 Hadst thou the same free will and power to stand ? Thou hadst : whom hast thou then or what to accuse But Heaven's free love dealt equally to all ? 50. ^ Among the spirits beneath, whom I seduced "^ With other promises and other vaunts - 3 Than to submit, boasting I could subdue 86 ^^ The Omnipotent. Ay me ! they little know ^ How dearly I abide that boast so vain, .V- Under what torments inwardly I groan ; ''. While they adore me on the throne of Hell, With diadem and sceptre high advanced, 90 The lower still I fall, only supreme In misery ; such joy ambition finds. But say I could repent, and could obtain By act of grace my former state, — how soon Would height recall high thoughts, how soon unsay 95 What feigned submission swore ! ease would recant Vows made in pain, as violent and void (For never can true reconcilement grow Where wounds of deadly hate have pierced so deep). Which would but lead me to a worse relapse 100 And heavier fall ; so should I purchase dear Short intermission bought with double smart. 71. A('5, his will. 94. act of grace, decree oi pai 87. abide, sutfer the conse- don. luences of. 100 PARADISE LOST. [Book IV. This knows my punislier ; therefore as far From granting be, as I from begging, peace. Ail Lope excluded thus, behold instead 106 Of us outcast, exiled, his new delight Mankind created, and for him this world. So farewell hope, and with hope farewell fear, Farewell remorse ! all good to me Is lost : Evil, be thou my good ; by thee at least 110 Divided empire with Heaven's king I hold, By thee and more than half perhaps will reign — o^ Man ere long and this new workl shall know.** Thus while he spake, each passion dimmed his face Thrice changed with pale, ire, envy, and despair, 115 \^ Which marred his borrowed visage, and betrayed , '^ Him counterfeit, if any eye beheld ; vi For heavenly minds from such distempers foul i^'i Are ever clear. Whereof he soon aware X Each perturbation smoothed with outward calm, 120 "^xi) Artificer of fraud ; and was the first s That practised falsehood under saintly show, / vl Deep malice to conceal couched with revenge. ^'"let not enough had practised to deceive Si,\ Uriel once warned ; whose eye pursued him down 1% *^ 'The way he went, and on the Assyrian mount \ Saw him disfigured, more than could befall J Spirit of happy sort : his gestures fierce ,/*S^ He marked and mad demeanor, then alone, \i As he supposed, all unobserved, unseen. iso So on he lares, and to the border comes Of Eden, where delicious Paradise, 112. more than half perhaps. 123. couched^ close lurking, Already Hell is his, and he hopes lying close. to g3i\n this m-iv world. — By thee 125. Uriel once warned. Sec precedes and for emphasis. 114—119. 115. pale, the paleness of ire, 127- the Assyrian mount Sm of envy, and of despair. III. 742. 117 counterfeit. See ni. 636. R,-K>K rV.] PARADISE LOST. 101 Kow nearer, crowns with licr enclosure green, As with a rural mound, the champain head Of a steep wilderness, whose hairy sides 138 With thicket overgrown, grotesque and wild, ^ Access denied ; and over head up grew V Insuperable height of loftiest shade, ^S Cedarj and pine, and fir, and branching palm, ' ^>^ A sylvan scene ; and, as the ranks ascend 140 i^' Shade above shade, a woody theatre Of stateliest view. Yet higher than their tops ^- ' The verdurous wall of Paradise up sprung, Which to our general sire gave prospect large Into his nether empire neighboring round. 145 And higher than that Avail a circling row ,. Of goodliest trees loaden with fairest fruit, >y Blossoms and fruits at once of golden hue, "^ Appeared, with gay enamelled colors mixed ; On which the sun more glad impressed his beams 150 ,^' Than in fair evenins; cloud, or humid bow r^ When God has showered the earth ; so lovely seemed ^J^ That landscape: and of pure now purer air ^' -Meets his approach, and to the heart inspires Vernal delight and joy, able to drive 156 All sadness but despair : now gentle gales. Fanning their odoriferous wings, dispense V Native perfumes, and whisper whence they stole ^ Those balmy spoils. As when to them who sail Beyond the Cape of Hope, and now are past lao ■ Mozambic, off at sea northeast winds blow Sabean odors from the spicy shore 134. the champain head, the 154. inspires, breathes in. ISTel summit. V\0. of Hnpe, of Good llnpe. 137. Access (Jellied, fovha.de up- 162. Sabi-an otiors. The .';outh- woach. em part of Arabia is ofte]i called 141. theatre, a place rising by Arabia Felix, or the Blest. Iti ereps, like the seat.s of aa aiicieut ancient capital was Saba, or She- theatre, ba, whose (lucen came to Jeriisa 163. of, from or after. lem " to hear the wisdom of Solo- 102 PARADISE LOST. [Book IV- Of Arab/ the Blest ; with such delay Well pleased they slack their course, and many a league Cheered with the grateful smell old Ocean smiles : 165 So entertained those odorous sweets the Fiend Who came their bane, though with them better pleased Than Asmodeus with the lishy fume That drove him, though enamored, from the spouse Of Tobit's son, and with a vengeance sent 170 From Media post to Egypt, there fast bound. Now to the ascent of that steep savage hill Satan had journeyed on, pensive and slow ; But further way found none, so thick entwined, '^ As one continued brake, the undergrowth 175 \i^ Of shrubs and tangling bushes had perplexed ^ All path of man or beast that passed that way. One gate there only was, and that looked east ^ On the other side : which when the arch-felon saw, ^ Due entrance he disdained, and in contempt 18C "^^ At one slight bound high overleaped all bound Of hill or highest wall, and sheer within Lights on his feet. As when a prowling wolf Whom hunger drives to seek new haunt for prey, Watching where shepherds pen their flocks at eve rnon," bringing spices, gold, and " the which smell when the e-vil precious stones ; " neither was spirit had smelled, he hf-.>\ into there any such spice as the queen the utmost parts of Egypt, and of Sheba gave King Solomon." 2 the angel bound him"" The Chronicles ix. 1-9. story is found in the Book of To- 167. their bane, as their bane ; bit, in the Apocrypha. See chap to poison them. viii. 168. Asmodeus was an evil 171. Merli'a, a country east of Bpirit, who had destroyed in sue- Assyria and south of the Caspian cession seven husbands of the Sea. — ;7o.<;i, with great speed. daughter of Raguel. After she 172. snvas^e, ^vild and woody, became the spouse of Tobifs son, 175. As, like. — brnke, thicket fee was driven away by the fumes 176. had, woiild have. — ptf of the heart and liver of a fish ; plexed, made intricate. ^-^ Book IV.] PARADISE LOST. 108 [n hurdled cotes amid the field secure, 188 C^~~- Leaps o'er the fence with ease into the fold ; ^ Or as a thief, bent to unhoard the cash Of some rich burgher, Avhose substantial, dooi-s Cross-barred and bolted fast fear no assault, 190 In at the window climbs, or o'er the tiles : ^ So clomb this first grand thief into God's fold ; So since into his church lewd hirelings climb. \ v^^hence up he flew, and on the Tree of Life, ^' The middle tree and highest there that grew, 196 Sat like a cormorant ; yet not true life Thereby regained, but sat devising death To them who lived ; nor on the virtue thought Of that life-giving plant, but only used For prospect what well used had been the pledge 200 ^ Of immortality. So little knows iv5 Any, but God alone, to value right ^ The good before him, but perverts best things To worst abuse or to their meanest use. meath him with new wonder now he views, 20S vl To all delight of'human sense exposed, ^ In narrow room Nature's whole wealth, yea more, ^ A heaven on Earth ; for blissful Paradise ^ Of God the garden was, by him in the east >^ Of Eden planted ; Eden stretched her line 214 ,,^ From Auran eastward to the royal towei^ "^i Of great Seleucia, built by Grecian kings, 186. hurdled, fenced about with 198. virhie, peculiar povrer oi Slicks or twigs closely interwoven, properties. — secure. See II. 399. 2,(f>. For prospect, as a place 192. So r/omb. See John x. 1. from which to look abroad. — 193. leivd is probably used here had been, would have been. a^m .Kc't?> wn. b^iov vile,iinprin- 210. Eden. ''And the Lord cipled. Elsewhere Milton speaks God planted a garden eastward of '"hii-eling wolves, whose gos- in Eden." Genesis ii. 8. pel is their maw." 211-214. Auran, or Ilaran (also 194. l,'ie Tree of 'Life. "The called Charran), was a city in the tre<- of life also in the midst of northwestern part of Mesopo- tlio garden." Genesis ii. 9. taniia, the name anciently given 19(5. cQiinornnt. The cormo- to the country lying l.etwt^en th« xaut is a kind of sea -fowl, ex- rivers Tigris anii Eupiarates Veniely voracious. J 04 PARADISE LOST. fBooit IV. Or where the sons of Eden long befc re Dwelt in Telassar. In this pleasant soil His far more pleasant garden God ordained : 215 Out of the fertile ground he caused to grow All trees of noblest kind for sight, smell, taste ; And all amid them stood the Tree of LifCf High eminent, blooming ambrosial fruit Of vegetable gold ; and next to life 220 /Our death, the Tree of Knowledge, grew fast by, I Knowledge of good bought dear by knowing ill. Southward through Eden went a river large. Nor chano;ed his course, but throun;h the sha£i;o;y hill > Passed underneath ingulfed ; for God had thrown 225 "'^•4^: That mountain as his irarden mould hio-h raised ^i Upon the rapid current, which, through veins Of porous earth with kindly tliirst up-drawn. Rose a fresh fountain, and with many a rill Watered the garden ; thence united fell 230 '■'^ Do'\\Ti the steep glade, and met the nether flood '« Which from his darksome passage now appears, "J And now divided into four main streams \Runs diverse Avandering many a famous realm And country, whereof here needs no account ; 235 But rather to tell how, if Art could tell f*EIow, from that sapphire fount the crisped brooks, Seleucia was a city in the south- " And the tree of knowledge of ea£tern part of Mesopotamia, on good and evil." Genesis ii. 9. — ihe river Tigris, built near the /a.t< bj/. See I. 12. ancient Telassar by Seleucus, a 223. a river large. " A river Macedonian general who became went out of Eden to water the king of Syria and the founder of garden." Genesis ii. 10. a line of Grecian kings. — The 224. his, its. So in line 232. exact situation of the Garden of 233. foitr main streams. "And Sden has always been a matter from thence it was parted, and of coujer*tui-e. — pleasant soil, became into four heads." Gen. The word Eden means pleasui-e, ii. 10-14. delight. 234. ivandering, wandering 218. all amid them, " in the over or tiirough. inidst of the garden." Genesis 237. crisped, curled in smai' . 9. — blooming, blooming ^vith. waves. ffil. the Tree of Knowledge. BOOE rV.] I'ARADTSE LOST. \0t Rolling on orient pearl and sands of gold With mazy error under pendent shades, Ran nectar, visiting eacli plant, and fed 240 Flowers wortliy of Paradise, which not nice Art In beds and curious knots, but Nature boon Poured forth profuse on liill and dale and plain, Both where the morning sun first warmly smote The open field, anil where the unpierced shade 245 Iinbrowned the noon-tide bowers. Thus was this place A happy rural seat of various view ; Groves whose rich trees wept odorous gums and balm, Others whose fruit burnished with golden rind Hung amiable, — Hesperian fables true, 250 If true, here only, — and of delicious taste. Betwixt them lawns, or level downs, and flocks Grazing the tender herb, were interposed, Or palmy hillock ; or the flowery lap Of some irriguous valley spread her store, 255 Flowers of all hue, and without thorn the rose. Another side, umbrageous grots and caves Of cool recess, o'er which the mantling vine Lays forth her purple grape, and gently creeps Luxuriant: meanwhile murmuring waters fall 260 Down the slope hills dispersed, or in a lake, That to the fringed bank with myrtle crowned Her crystal mirror holds, unite their streams. Tlie birds their quire apply ; airs, vernal airs. Breathing the smell of field and grove, attune 265 The ti-embling leaves, while universal Pan, 238. orient, eastern; such as 250. arw/aWe. lovely or pleasing IS found in the East. to the sight. See Psalm Ixxxiv. 239. error, -vrandering; course. 1 . — Hesperian fables. See IH. 241. nice Art. nice Art had set. 56S. — true, proved tnie. 24.*^. 6oon, bountiful. 2^1. or connects /a^/ and ?/n»7« . 245. vnpierce'I, not penetrated 264. oiiire. choir. — apply, add : bv the ravs of the sun. or, p!y ; employ. "246. /;n/»07fne Couched, and now filled with pasture gazing sat, ^ Or bedward ruminating ; for the sun •s Declined was hasting now with prone career To tlie ocean Isles, and In the ascending scale Of heaven the stars that usher evening rose : 355 When Satan, still In gaze as first he stood, Scarce thus at length failed speech recovered sad : ->A " O Hell ! what do mine eyes with grief behold ? Into our room of bliss thus high advanced Creatures of other mould, earth-born perhaps, 360 Not spirits, yet to heavenly spirits bright Little inferior ; whom my thoughts pui'sue With wonder, and could love, so lively shines In them divine resemblance, and such grace The hand that formed them on their shape hath poured. 366 Ah, gentle pair ! ye little think how nigh Your change approaches, when all these delights Will vanish and deliver ye to woe, 343. raJTJpei^, bounded ; leaped. 350. unheeded by Aiam snd 344. pards, leopards, or pan- Eve. thers. 351. Couched, lay. 348. Insinuating, winding So2. bedward rutninating, chew- along. — Gordian. At Gordium, ing the cud before they slept. In Asia Minor, was a celebratpl 353. prone, sloping downwards, knot, so intricate that an oracle 357. failed, lost for a time, declared that he who should \in- 359. Into our room of bliss, to tie it should rule the world, take our place in bliss. 4.1exander of Macedon cut it with 362. Little inferior. "Thou his sword. — twine, twist hast made bio a little lower than the angels " Psahn viii. 5. 110 PARADISE LOST. [Book IV More woe the more your taste Is now of joy : Happy, but for so happy ill secured Zld Long to continue, and this high seat your heaven Ill-fenced for heaven to keep out such a foe As now is entered ; yet no purposed foe To you, whom I could pity thus forlorn. Though I unpitied. League Avith you I seek, 375 And mutual amity, so strait, so close. That I with you must dwell, or you with me, Henceforth : my dwelling haply may not please, Like this fair Paradise, your sense ; yet such Accept your INIaker's work ; he gave it me, 380 Which I as freely give : Hell shall unfold, To entertain you two, her widest gates, And send forth all her kings ; there will be room. Not like these narrow limits, to receive Your numerous offspring : if no better place, 385 Thank him who puts me loath to this revenge On you who wrong me not, for him Avho wronged. And should I at your harmless innocence Melt, as I do, yetpubhc reason just, Honor and empire with revenge enlarged 390 By conquering this new world, compels me now To do what else, though danmed, I should abhor." So spake the Fiend, and with necessity, The tyrant's plea, excused his deviHsh deeds. Then from his lofty stand on that high tree 395" Down he alights among the sportful herd Of those four-footed kinds, himself now one, Now other, as their shape served best his end Nearer to view his prey, and unespied 398 To mark what of their state he more might learn 370. for, considering that you 3S1. Hell shall unfold. See are. Isaiah xi7. 9. 371. continue, continue happy. 386. puts, impels. — loath, au 376. /myself remain unpitied. willing. Book IV.] PARADISE LOST. Ill By word or action marked : about them round A lion now lie stalks with fiery glare ; Then as a tiger, who by chance hath spied In some purlieu two gentle fawns at play, Straight couches close, then rising changes oft 4<:-€ His couchant watch, as one who chose his ground, Whence rushing he might surest seize them both . Griped in each paw : when Adam, first of men, To first of women Eve thus moving speech. Turned him all ear to hear new utterance tlow : 41C " Sole partner and sole part of all these joys, Dearer thyself than all, needs must the Power That made us, and for us this ample world, Be infinitely good, and of his good As liberal and free as infinite ; 415 That raised us from the dust and placed us here : In all this happiness, who at his hand t-.^ Have nothing merited, nor can perform Aught whereof he hath need ; he who requires From us no other service than to keep 420 This one, this easy charge, of all the trees ^^ V In Paradise that bear delicious fruit Ss.So various, not to taste that only Tree Of Knowledge, planted by the Tree of Life ; .^ So near grows death to life, whate'er death is, 425 • -^ Some dreadful thing no doubt ; for well thou know'st r /^' God hath pronounced it death to taste that tree, '• ^ The only sign of our obedience left Among so many signs of power and rule 403. as a ti^er, in the form or saying, Of every tree cf the ^ar- likeness of a tiger. den tiiou mayest freely eat ; but iOy. r?2«i'/nir .s/?eecA, speaking. of the tree of the knowledge of 410. him, Satan. — all ear. See good and evil, thou shalt not eat Comus, line 560, " I was all of it ; for in the day that thou ear." eatest thereof thou shalt surely 423. 7iot. to taste. " And the die." Genesis ii. 16, 17. Lord God commanded the man, Vi 112 PARADISE LOS 7. [Bock IV. Conferred upon us, and dominion given 430 Over all other creatures that possess Earth, air, and sea. Then let us not think hard One easy prohibition, who enjoy Free leave so large to all things else, and choice Unlimited of manifold delights ; 136 But let us ever praise him and extol His bounty, following our delightful task, To prune these growing plants and tend these flowei^s, Which were it toilsome yet with thee were sweet." To whom thus Eve replied : " O thou for whom And from whom I was formed, flesh of thy flesh, 4U And without whom am to no end, my guide And head, what thou hast said is just and right : For we to him indeed all praises owe. And daily thanks ; I chiefly, who enjoy 445 So far the happier lot, enjoying thee Preeminent by so much odds, while thou Like consort to thyself canst nowhere find. That day I oft remember, when from sleep I first awaked, and found myself reposed 450 Under a shade on flowers, much wondering where And Avhat I was, whence thither brought, and how. Not distant far fi-om thence a murmuring sound Of waters Issued from a cave, and spread Into a liquid plain, then stood unmoved, 456 Pure as the expanse of heaven : I thither went With unexperienced thought, and laid me down On the green bank, to look into the clear Smooth lake, that to me seemed another sky. 4313. dominion, of dominion.— 431. possess, occxnpj. given. " llaye dominion over the 441. froin tv/inm I was formed fish of the sea, and over the fowl See Genesis ii. 21-23. of the air, and over every living 443. head. "The head of_th« thing that moveth upon the woman is the man." 1 Cor. xi. 3 sarth." Genesis i. 28. 450. reposed, laid as for rest. Book IV.] PARADISE LOST. 113 As I bent down to look, just opposite 460 A shape within the watery gleam appeared, Bending to look on me : I started back, [t started back ; but pleased I -soon returned, Pleased it returned as soon with answering looks Of sympathy and love : there I had fixed 46c Mine eyes till now, and pined with vain desire. Had not a voice thus warned me : ' What thou seest, What there thou seest, fair creature, is thyself; With thee it came and goes : but follow me. And I will bring thee where no shadow stays 470 Thy coming and thy soft embraces ; he Whose image thou art, him thou shalt enjoy Inseparably thine, to him shalt bear Multitudes like thyself, and thence be called Mother of human race.' What could I do 476 But follow straight, invisibly thus led ? Till I espied thee, foir indeed and tall, Under a platane ; yet, methought, less fair, Less winning soft, less amiably mild, Than that smooth watery image : back I turned ; m Thou following criedst aloud, ' Return, fair Eve ; Whom fly'st thou ? whom thou fly'st, of him thou art. His flesh, his bone ; to give thee being I lent Out of my side to thee, nearest my heart, Substantial life, to have thee by my side 485 Henceforth an individual sola'ce dear; Part of my soul I seek thee, and thee claim Mj;^her_hslf' With that thy gentle hand *^ized mine ; I yielded, and from that time see How beauty is excelled by manly grace 490 And wisdom, which alone is truly fair." 465. harJ, should have. 485. Substantial having sub- 478. platane, plane-tree. stance ; material. 479. amiably, so as to attract, 486. individual, inseparable ; or to inspire Ioto. not diyided. 8 [14 PARADISE LOST. [Book IV So spake our general rnotlier, and with eyes Of conjugal attraction unreproved ^ . And meek surrender, half embracing leaned ^ On our first father ; half her swelling breast 486 ■Naked met his, under the flowing gold Of her loose tresses hid : he in delight Both of her beauty and submissive charms Smiled with superior love, as Jupiter s^ On Juno smiles when he impregns the clouds COO ^ That shed INlay flowers, and pressed her matron lip ^ With kisses pure : aside the Devil turned For envy, yet with jealous leer malign Eyed them askance, and to himself thus plained : " Sight hateful, sight tormenting ! Thus these two, Imparadised in one another's arms, 506 The happier Eden, shall enjoy their fill Of bliss on bliss ; while I to Ilell am thrust, Where neither joy nor love, but fierce desire, " Amongst our other torments not the least, 510 Still unfulfilled with pain of longing pines. ^ Yet let me not forget what I have gained ^ From their own mouths : all is not theirs it seems ; Ni One fatal tree there stands of knowledge called, >> Forbidden them to taste. Knowledge forbidden ? I ^ Suspicious, reasonless. Why should their Lord 616 ; ^vEnvy them that ? can it be sin to know ? "■V ..^ Can it be death ? and do they only stand '^'** "^sBy ignorance ? is that their happy state, 5 y J ^he proof of their obedience and their fiiith ? 530 i ^10 fair foundation laid whereon to build 5»^ ■'^5 Their ruin ! Hence I will excite their minds ^ With more desire to know, and to reject 500. impregns, makes fruitful glance. — plained, complained or fertilizing , impregnates. murmured. 504 askance, with sideway Book IV.] PARADISE LOST. 115 Envious commands, invented with design To keep them low, whom knowletlge might exalt 526 Equal with gods ; aspiring to be such. They taste and die : what likelier can ensue ? — But first with narrow seai^h I must walk round This garden, and no corner leave unspied ; A chance but chance may lead where I may meet o^J Some wandering spirit of Heaven, by fountain side Or in thick shade retired, from him to draw What further would be learned. Live while ye may, Yet happy pair ; enjoy, till I return, Short pleasures, for long woes are to succeed." 535 So saying, his proud step he scornful turned j^jfy^rjj^'^ But with sly circumspection, and began, '^x*" Through wood, through waste, o'er hill, o'er dale, his "■"" roam. Meanwhile in utmost longitude, where heaven With earth and ocean meets, the setting sun 640 Slowly descended, and with right aspe'ct Against the eastern gate of Paradise Levelled his evening rays : it was a rock ■^^ Of alabaster, piled up to the clouds, '^ J Conspicuous far, winding with one ascent 545 A ^.,€ Accessible from earth, one entrance high ; ,j^^^% The rest was craggy cliff, that overhung ^ . "^ Still as it rose, impossible to climb. ^ ^">^ Betwixt these rocky pillars Gabriel sat, """^ Chief of the angelic guai'ds, awaiting night : 650 About him exercised heroic games ^The unarmed youth of Heaven ; but nigh at hand 627. ichat likelier can ensue? 541. with ri^ht aspect^ ynth ^• what is more likely to be the con- rect look ; directlj^ opposite, •equeuce? 5-12. Ai^ninst the enstfrn gate. 530. A chance but, there is a It could have been only against thance that. ' the inner side of the eastern gate, 539. (71 utmost longitude, in the that the setting su7i levelled his ferthefit or extreme west. evening rays. 543. levelled, cast horizontally 1 iT 116 PARADISE LOST. [Book IV Celestial armory, shields, helms, and spears, Hung high with diamond ilaming and with gold. Thither came Uriel, gliding through the even gU On a sunbeam, «wift as a shooting star In autumn thwarts the night, when vapors fired Impress the air, and shows the mariner From what point of his compass to beware Impetuous winds : he thus began in haste : 6O0 " Gabriel, to thee thy course by lot bath given Charge and strict watcli, that to this happy place No evil thing approach or enter in. This day at height of noon came to my sphere A Spirit, zealous, as he seemed, to know 665 More of the Almighty's works, and chiefly Man, God's latest image : I described his way Bent all on speed, and marked his aery gait ; But in the mount that lies from Eden north, Where he first lighted, soon discerned his looks 570 Alien from Heaven, with passions foul obscured : Mine eye pin-sued him still, but under shade Lost sight of him. One of the banished crew, I fear, hath ventured from the deep to raise New troubles ; him thy care must be to find." 578 To whom the winged warrior thus returned : '' Uriel, no wonder if thy perfect sight. Amid the sun's bright circle where thou sitt'st, See far and wide. In at this gate none pass The vigilance here placed, but such as come 580 Well known from Heaven ; and since meridian hour No creature thence : if spirit of other sort, 555. the even, the evening sky. 5G4-567. See III. 613-680.— rf»> 557. thwarts the ni^ht, shoots scribtrJ his tcay, described th« ncross or through the dai-kness. way to him. •558. Impress, mark ; make a 569-573. See lines 114-130. tray upon. 580. vigilance, guard ; waiicb 661. Course. See 1 Chronicles coii.-xxvi., and Luke i. 8, 9. Book IV.] PARADISE LOST. 117 'f So minded, have o'erleaped these earthy bounds On purpos the days oi 120 PARADISE LOST. [Book IV. On earth, made hereby apter to receive Perfection from the sun's more potent ray ; These then, though unbeheld in deep of night, Slilne not in vain. Nor thnik, though men were none, 675 That heaven would Avant spectators, God Avant praL^i : Millions of spiritual creatures walk the earth Unseen, both Avhen we wake and when we sleep ; All these with ceaseless praise his Avorks behold Both day and night. Hoav often from the steep 680 Of echoing hill or thicket, have Ave heard Celestial voices to the midnight air, Sole, or responsive each to other's note. Singing the great Creator ! oft in bands 684 While they keep Avatch, or nightly rounding Avalk, AVith heavenly touch of instrumental sounds In full harmonic number joined, their songs _pivlde the night and lift our thoughts to Heaven." Thus talking, hand in hand alone they passed On to their blissful bower : it Avas a place 690 Chosen by the sovran planter, Avhen he framed All things to Man's delightful use : the roof Of thickest covert Avas iuAvovcn shade, Laurel and myrtle, and what higher grcAv Of firm and fragrant leaf; on either side 695 Acanthus and each odorous bushy shrub Fenced up the verdant Avail ; each beauteous flower, tris all hues, roses and jessamine, cleared high their flourished heads between, and wrought Mosaic ; underfoot the violet, . 70c Crocus, and hyacinth, Avith rich inlay astrology, were suppofsed to have 698. all hues, of all hues, power over things on the earth. 699. Jioiirisherl, adorned witli 688. Divi'h the ni^ht. In a flower.s. — wrought, made by their Roman camp the night was di- different colors, fided into watches by the sound 701. inlarj, inlaid work, of trumpets. BooKlV.] PARADISE LOST, 121 Broidered tlic ground, more colored than -with stone Of costliest emblem : other creatm-e here, Beast, bird, insect, or worm, durst enter none, Such was their awe of Man. In shadier bower 706 More sacred and sequestered, though but feigned, Pan or Sylvanus never slept, nor Nymph Nor Faunus haunted. Here, in close recess, With flowers, garlands, and sweet smelling herbs, Espoused Eve. decked first her nuptial bed ; 710 And heavenly quires the hymcnasan sung, What day the genial angel to our sire Brought her, in naked beauty more adorned, More lovely than Pandora, whom the gods Endowed with all their gifts, and O too like 715 In sad event ! when to the unwiser son Of Japhet brought by Hermes she ensnared Mankind with her fair looks, to be avenged On him who had stole Jove's authentic fire. Thus at their shady lodge arrived, both stood, 720 Both turned, and under open sky adored The God that made both sky, air, earth, and heaven Which they beheld, the moon's resplendent globe, And starry pole : " Thou also mad'st the night, Maker omnipotent ! and thou the day, 725 703. emblem^ inlaid or mosaic first woman, Pandora (all-gift- work ed), on whom the gods had con- 707. Fan. See line 266. — 5/Z- ferred every charm. Wnnes^ox vanus was a rural god, who pre- Mercury, brought her to Eijima- lidcd over woods and fields.— theus, the vnivisei- son of Japhet, iVy??!^. The Nymphs were female who, despite the warnmg of his divinities, some of whom dwelt in brother Prometheus, took her to |rovcs and trees. She had brought with her 708 Faunus was the god of from heaven a box containing all fields b.nd shepherds. the ills that afflict humanity. 711. hymen^nn. nuptial song. When the box was opened, these 714-719. Prometheus, son of es.aped and spread over the lapotus or Japhet, stole fire from earth, Hope alone remammg heaven, Jove's authentic f.re, for This was the sad event, or con- the use of mortals. In revenge, sequence. — authentic, of which Jupiter sent to earth, for the he was the author, uiisery of the human race, tho 122 PARADISE LOST. 'Book IV Wlilch we in our appointed work employed Have finished, bappy in our mutual help And mutual love, the crown of all our bliss. Ordained by thee ; and this delicious place For us too large, where thy abundance wants 780 Partakers, and uncropt falls to the ground. But ^liou hast promised from us two a race To fill the earth, who shall with us extol Thy goodness infinite, both when we Avake, And when we seek, as now, thy gift of sleep." 736 This said unanimous, and other rites Observing none, but adoration pure ■ Which God likes best, into their inmost bower Handed they went ; and, eased the putting off These troublesome disguises which we wear, 740 Straight side by side were laid ; nor turned, I ween, Adam from his fair spouse, nor Eve the rites Mysterious of connubial lovo refused ; Whatever hypocrites austerely talk Of purity, and place, and innocence, 745 Defaming as impure what God declares Pure, and commands to some, leaves free to all. Our Maker bids increase ; who bids abstain But our destroyer, foe to God and Man ? Hail, wedded love ! mysterious law, true source 750 Of human offspring, sole propriety In Paradise of all things common else. By thee adulterous lust was driven from men Among the bestial herds to range; by thee, Founded in reason, loyal, just and pure, 755 Relations dear, and all the charities Of father, son, and brother, first were known. 731. uncropt^ ungathered. 739. handed^ hand in hand.' 735. ihy gift. " He giveth his eased., spared, beloved sleep. ' Psalm cxxvii. 2. 751. 'propriety^ property. RooKlY.] PARADISE LOS'I. 123 Far be it, that I should write tliee sin or blame, Or think thee unbefitting holiest jilace, Perpetual fountain of domcstie sweets, 760 Whose bed is undefiled and chaste pronounced, Present or past, as saints and patriarchs used. Here Love his golden shafts employs, here lights His constant lamp, and waves his purple wings. Reigns here and revels ; not in the bought smile 765 Of harlots, loveless, joyless, unendeared. Casual fruition ; nor in court amours. Mixed dance, or wanton mask, or midnight ball, Or serenate, which the starved lover sings To his proud feir, best quitted with disdain. 770 These, lulled by nightingales, embracing slept, And on their naked limbs the flowery roof Showered roses, which the morn repaired. Sleep on. Blest pair ; and O yet happiest if ye seek _ No happier state, and know to know no more ! 775 Now had Night measured with her shadowy cone ^^ "" I Half-way up hill this vast sublunar vault, fj^A"*-^ And from their i^'ory port the Cherubim X Off Forth issuing at the accustomed hour, stood armed .-,-^^ To their night watches in warlike parade, 780 When Gabriel to his next in power thus spake : •' U::ziel, half these draw off, and coast the south With strictest watch ; these other wheel the north ; Our circuit meets full west." — As flame they part, Half wheeling to the sk'eld, half to the spear. 'm 769. serenate, from the Italian zenith. If the day and ijght 'serenata," serenade. were each twelve hours lon^, this 776. shailoicij cone. The shad- would be half way between sun- I w of the earth is cone-shaped, set aud midnight. khe sun being the larger body. 779. port, gate. This moves as the sun (properly, 783. wheel, more round. - 'he eartli) moves. these other were under Gabriel 777. Half loay up hill, half himself. \\..j from the horizon to the "So. Half wheeling to the shield, 121 PARADISE LOST. [Book IV From these, two strong and subtle spirits lie called That near him stood, and gave them thus in charge : " Ithuriel and ^ejihori^ with winged sjieed Search through this garden, leave unsearched no nook But chiefly where those two fair creatures lodge, 79( Now laid perhaps asleep, secure of harm. This evening from the sun's decline arrived Who tells of some infernal spirit seen Hitherward bent (who could have thought ?), escaped The bars of Plell, on errand bad no doubt : 795 Such, where ye find, seize fast and hither brino." So saying, on he led his radiant files. Dazzling the moon ; these to the bower direct In search of whom they sought : him there tbey found, Squat like a toad, close at the ear of Eve, 800 Ij^ Assapng by his devilish art to reach The organs of her fancy, and w^ith them forge Illusions as he list, phantasms and dreams ; Or if, inspiring venom, he might taint The animal spirits that from pure blood arise SuS Like gentle breaths from rivers pure, thence raise At least distempered, discontented thoughts, Vain hopes, vain aims, inordinate desires. Blown up with high conceits ingendering pride. Him thus intent Ithuriel with his spear 81C Touched lightly ; for no falsehood can endure Touch of celestial temper, but returns or left, shields beiug worn on the 793. Who, one who. See lines left arm, and half to the spear, or 549-575. right hand, in which the spear 798. these (see line 786), these •yascan-ied. proceeded. <86. these, these other, who 799. whom, him whom, wheeled to the right. — 5J<6i/e, 804. yrt5;>(Wnf, breathing in. quick to observe. 803. raise, might rai.-^e. <81. secure of, without anxiety 812. celestial temper. See 1 or care on account of; free from 285. the fear of. Book IV.] PARADISE LOST. 125 Of force to Its own likeness ; up he starts, Discovered and surprised. As when a spark Lights on a heap of nitrous powder, laid 816 Fit for the tun some magazine to store Against a rumored war, the smutty grain With sudden blaze diffused inflames the air ; So started up in his own shape the Fiend. Back stepped those two fair angels, half amazed S20 So sudden to behold the grisly king ; Yet thus, unmoved with fear, accost him soon : " Which of those rebel spirits adjudged to Hell Com'st thou, escaped thy prison ? and transformed Why sat'st thou like an enemy in wait, 825 Here watching at the head of these that sleep ? " " Know ye not then," said Satan, filled with scorn, " Know ye not me ? ye kncAv me once no mate For you, tliere sitting where ye durst not soar : Not to know me argues yourselves unknown, 830 The lowest of your throng ; or if ye know, Why ask ye, and superfluous begin Your message, like to end as much in vain ? " To whom thus /^ephon , answering scorn with scorn ; " Think not, levolted Spirit, thy shape the same, S35 Or undiminished brightness, to be known As when thou stood'st in Heaven upright and pure : That glory then, when thou no more wast good, Depaj'ted from thee, and thou resemblest now Thy sin and place of doom obscure and foul. S40 But come ; for thou, be sure, shalt give account 813. Of/orce, of necessity. 835,836. Think not thy shape 816. Fit for the tun, ready to the same, or thy brightness uu- be put iuto casks. diminished, so that tliou sliouldst 817. stnutly grain, gunpowder, be known. — This seems the best 830. argues, proves. rendering. 126 PA RAD IS?: LOST. [Boor. IV To him wlio sent us, wlio?e charge Is to keep This place inviolable, and these from harm." So spake the Cherub ; and his grave rebuke, i^evere in youthful beauty, added grace 8« Invincible : abashed the Devil stood, And felt how awful goodness is, and saw Virtue in her shape how lovely ; saw, and pined His loss ; but chiefly to find here observed His lustre visibly impaired ; yet seemed 8fi0 Undaunted. " If I must contend," said he, ■•' Best with the best, the sender not the sent. Or all at once ; more glory will be won, Or less be lost." " Thy fear," said Zephon bold, " Will save us trial what the least can do 855 Single against thee wicked, and thence weak." The Fiend replied not, overcome with rage ; But like a proud steed reined went haughty on, Champing his iron curb : to strive or fly He held it vain ; awe from above had quelled 860 His heart, not else dismayed. Now drew they nigh The western point, where those half-rounding guards Just met, and closing stood in squadron joined. Awaiting next command. To whom their chief, Gabriel, from the front thus called aloud : 86S " O friends, I hear the tread of nimble feet Hasting this way, and noAv by glimpse discern (thuriiil and Zephon through the shade ; And with them comes a third of regal port But laded splendor wan, who by his gait 870 849. chie/I>/. chiefly pined. 855. trial, the trial or trying 850. His lustre, that his lustre of. was. 869. port, bearing. 852. It is liest to contend ; or perhaps let the best contend. B.-OKlV.] PARADISE LOST. 127 And fierce demeanor seems the Prince of Hell, Not likely to part hence without contest ; Stand firm, for in his look defiance lours." He scarce had ended, when those two approached, And brief related whom they brought, where found, How busied, in what form and posture couched. S76 To whom with stern regard thus Gabriel spake : •' Why hast thou, Satan, broke the bounds prescribed To thy transgressions, and disturbed the charge Of others, who approve not to transgress 880 By thy example, but have power and right To question thy bold entrance on this place ; Employed it seems to violate sleep, and those Whose dwelling God hath planted here in bliss ? " To whom thus Satan with contemi)tuous brow : 885 " Gabriel, thou hadst in Heaven the esteem of wise, And such I held thee ; but this question asked Puts me in doubt. Lives there who loves his pain ? Who would not, finding way, break loose from Hell, Though thither doomed ? Thou wouldst thyself, no doubt, 890 And boldly venture to whatever place Farthest from pain, where thou might'st hope to change Torment with ease, and soonest recompense Dole with delight, which In this place I sought ; To thee no reason, who know'st only good, 896 But evil hast not tried ; and wilt object 873. lours, lowers. 893. recompense., compensate. 877. regard, look. 894. Dole, pain ; grief. S80. approve not, do not think 895. To thee no reason, this \s it rio;ht. to th(ie no reason. 8S6. hadst the esteem of wise., 896. «'//f o6/ec^, wilt thju bring •yast esteemed wise. as an objection. 888. who, any who. 1 28 PARADISE LOST. [Book IV His will who bound us ? Let him surer bar His iron gates, if he intends our stay In that dark durance. Thus much what was asked ; The rest is true, they found me where they say ; 90C But that implies not violence or harm." Thus he in scorn. The warlike angel moved, Disdainfully half-smiling, thus, replied : " O loss of one in Heaven to judge of wise, Since Satan fell ! whom folly overflirew, ■ 905 And now returns him from his prison scaped, Gravely in doubt whether to hold them wise Or not, Avho ask what boldness brought him hither Unlicensed from his bounds in Hell prescribed ; So wise he judges it to fly from pain 910 However, and to scape his punishment ! So judge thou still, presumptuous, till the wrath, Which thou incurr'st by flying, meet 'thy flight Sevenfold, and scourge that wisdom back to Hell, Which taught thee yet no better, that' no pain 915 Can equal anger infinite provoked. , But wherefore thou alone ? Avherefore with thee Came not all Hell broke loose ? is pain to them Less pain, less to be fled ? or thou than they Less hardy to endure ? Courageous chief ! 920 The first in flight from pain, hadst thou alleged To thy deserted host this cause of flight, Thou surely hadst not come sole fugitive." To which the Fiend thus answered, frowning stern : *' Not that I less endure, or shrink from pain, 925 lus'.iltlntr ancrel ; well thou know'st I stood 897. Perhaps not interrogative. 904. o/"it)/se, who are wise 8!W. what, for what; in reply Ltll. However^ in any wajT k what. whatever. 902. nioff', stirred in spirit; 916. (qual, he equal to. BXCit*-!!. Book IV.] PARADISE LOST. 129 Thy fiercest, Avhen in battle to tliy aid The blasting volleyed thunder made all speed, And seconded thy else not dreaded spear. But still thy words at random, as before, 93C Argue thy inexperience what behooves. From hard assays and ill successes past, A fiiithful leader, not to hazard all Through .ways of danger by. himself untried. 1 therefore, I alone, first undertook 936 To wing the desolate abyss, and spy This new created world, whereof in Hell Fame is not silent, here in hope to find Better abode, and my afflicted Powers To settle here on earth, or in mid-air ; 940 Though for possession put to try once more What thou and thy gay legions dare against ; Whose easier business were to serve their Lord High up in Heaven, Avith spngs to hymn his throne, And practised distances to cringe, not fight." 945 To whom the warrior angel soon replied : " To say and straight unsay, pretending first Wise to fly pain, professing next the spy. Argues no leader, but a liar traced, Satan ! and couldst thou faithful add ? O name, 950 O sacred name of faithfulness protaned ! Faithful to whom ? to thy rebellious crew ? Army of fiends, fit body to fit head ! Was this your discipline and faith engaged, 927. Thy fiercest^ thy fiercest against, dare to attempt against attack ; the fiercest thou couldst us. do 943. were, would be. 931. Argue. See line 830. — 945. And practised distances, what of what. such distances as courtiers prac- 935'. I alone. See II. 420-457. ti.^e in their obeisances. — ifi/A 939. Powers. See I. 128, 186. seems to govern distances, 941. put, put to it ; forced 5 we 948. Wise, that it is wise, should be forced. 949. traced, tracked; found 942. gay, bright ; fine. — dare out ; clearly shown. iaO PARADISE LOST. [i^ooK IV youi military obedience, to dissolve 361 Alle^^iance to the acknowledged powei supreme ? And thou, sly hypocrite, who now wot Idst seem Patron of liberty, who more than thou Once fawned and cringed, and servilely adored Heaven's awful monarch ? wherefore, but In hope 960 To dispossess him, and thyself to reign ? But mark Avhat I arreed thee now — Avaunt ! Fly thither whence thou fledd'st : If from this hour Within these hallowed limits thou appear, Back to the infernal pit I drag thee chained, 965 And seal thee so, as henceforth not to scorn The facile gates of Hell, too slightly barred." So threatened he ; but Satan to no threats Gave heed, but waxing more in rage replied : " Then when I am thy captive talk of chains, 970 Proud limitary Cherub ! but ere then Far heavier load thyself expect to feel From my prevailing arm, though Heaven's king Ride on thy wings, and thou with thy compeers, Used to the yoke, draw'st his triumphant wlieels 975 In progress through the road of Heaven star-paved." While thus he spake, the angelic squadron bright Turned fiery red, sharpening in mooned horns Their phalanx, and began to hem him round With ported spears, as thick as when a field 980 Of Ceres ripe for harvest waving bends [l&c bearded groves of ears which way the wind 962. amed, direct ; appoint. form of a crescent, like the new 966. seal. See Revelation xx. 3. moon. 967. facile^ easy to be opened. 980. ported^ borne with theii 971. limitanj, set to guard the points towards him. limits. 981. Ceres (see line 271) wa* 978. in mooned horns, in the the goddess of agriculture. BOOK 17.] PARADFSE LOST. 131 Sways tliem ; the careful ploughman doubting stands^ Lest on the threshing-floor his hopeful sheaves Prove chaff. On the other side, Satan alarmed, 985 Collecting all his might, dilated stood. Like Teneriffe or Atlas unremoved : His stature reached the sky, and on his crest Sat horror plumed ; nor wanted in his grasp What seemed both spear and shield. Now dreadful deeds 990 Might have ensued, nor only Paradise In this commotion, but the starry cope Of heaven perhaps, or all the elements At least had gone to wrack, disturbed and torn With violence of this conflict, had not soon 995 The Eternal, to prevent such horrid fray, Hung forth in heaven his golden scales, yet seen Betwixt Astrea and the Scorpion sign. Wherein all things created first he weighed, The pendulous round earth with balanced air lOOO In counterpoise, now ponders all events, Battles and realms: In these he put two weights, The sequel each of parting and of fight ; The latter quick up flew and kicked the beam, Which Gabriel spying thus bespakc the Fiend : 1005 " Satan, I know thy strength, and thou know'st mine, 985. alnrmed, routed. depraved, was removed from 987. Teneriffe is a iiigh peak earth to heaven, where she shiues oi one of the Canary Islands, as the constellation Virgo. Atlas is a range of mountains in 999. first lie weisrhc/J. "Weigh- ihe north of Africa. — unreinover/, ed the mountains in scales, and Immovable. the hills in a balance." Isaiah 989. ivanterl, was wanting. xl. 12. 997. his s:nlden sca'es,yet'seen. 1001. In counterpoise, vrelghei The pign Libra, or the Balance, against each other. — noio pari' between Virgo and Scorpio. ders, and now weighs. 998. AstrcRa was the goddess of 100-3. The sequH, as showing iii8tice, who, when men became the consequence or event. l82 PARADISE LOST. [Book I\ Neither our own, but given ; wliat folly then To boast what arms can do ! since thine no n'ore Than Heaven permits, nor mine, though doubled now To trample thee as mire : for proof look up, 1010 And read thy lot in yon celestial sign, Where thou art weighed, and shown how light, how weak. If thou resist." The Fiend looked up, and knew His mounted scale aloft : nor more ; but lied 1014 Murmuring, and with him fled the shades of night. 1008. Since thine, since thy 1012. Wiere thou art loeighed, strength can do. " Thou art weighed in the bal- lOOy. nor mine, nor can mine. an.ces, and art found wanting." — though, though it were. Dan. v. 27. l^m' trample thee as mire. See 1014. nor more, nor looked Ceaiah x. 8. more, or for more. BOOK V THE ARGUSIENT. MORNiKO approached, Eve relates to Adam her tioublesome dream , he likes it not, yet comforts her. They come forth to their lay- labors ; their morniug hymn at the door of their bower. God, to render man inexcusable, sends Raphael to admonish him of his obedience ; of his free estate ; of Ms enemy near at hand, who he is, and why his enemy ; and whatever else may avail Adam to know. Raphael comes down to Paradise ; his appearance de- scribed ; his coming discerned by Adam afar off sitting at the door of his bower ; he goes out to meet him, brings him to his lodge, entertains him with the choicest fruits of Paradise got to- gether by Eve ; their discourse at table. Raphael performs his message, minds Adam of his state and of his enemy ; relates, at Adam's request, who that enemy is, and how he came to be so, beginning from his first revolt in Heaven, and the occasion there- of ; how he drew his legions after him to the parts of the north, and there incited them to rebel with him, persuading all but only Abdiel, a seraph, who in argument dissuades and opposes him, then forsakes him. Now Morn, her rosy steps in the eastern clime Advancing, sowed the earth with orient pearl, When Adam waked, so customed, for his sleep Was aery light, from pure digestion bred And temperate vapors bland, which the only sound Of leaves and fuming rills, Aurora's fan, 6 Lightly dispersed, and the shrill matin song 1. Morn. Aurora, the goddess 3. so customed, as was his ca8 of the morning, announced the torn. coming of the sun, and opened 5. iv/iic/i, referring to sleep. — the gates of heaven with her rosy the oiibj sound, the sound alone, fingers. The stars fled before her 6. fumiv^, steaming with va- ae she scatt^jred the dew, orient por. — Aurora's fan, the morning V^Mi'l breeze, implied in somul 1 34 PARADISE L OS T. [Book V . Of birds on every bough : so mucli the more His wonder was to find unwakened Eve With tresses discomposed and glowing cheek, 10 As thi^ough unquiet rest : he, on his side Leaning half raised, with looks of cordial love Hung over her enamored, and beheld Beauty, which, whether waknig or asleep, Shot forth peculiar graces ; then, Avith voice Ifi Mild as when Zephyrus on Flora breathes. Her hand soft touching, Avhispered thus : " Awake, My fairest, my espoused, my latest found. Heaven's last best gift, my ever new delight. Awake ! the morning shines, and the fresh field 2C Calls us ; we lose the prime, to mark how spring Our tended plants, how blows the citron grove. What drops the myrrh and what the balmy reed, How Nature paints her colors, how the bee Sits on the bloom extracting liquid sweet." 25 Such whispering waked her, but with startled eye On Adam, whom embracing, thus she spake : " O sole in whom my thoughts find all repose, My glory, my perfection, glad I see Thy face, and morn returned ; for I this night 80 , .^ (Such night till this I never passed) have dreamed, ""< If dreamed, not, as I oft am wont, of thee, ,, Works of day past, or morrow's next design, *-C But of offence and trouble, which my mind ^^S Knew never till this irksome night- Methought 35 V Close at mine ear one called me forth to walk i ^ With gentle voice ; I thought it thine : it said, ^ \\'^hy sleep'st thou, Eve ? now is the pleasant time, 16. Zephyru.t. See IV. 329. — 21. prime, earliest morning. Flora was the goddess of flowers 23. balmy, bearing balm oi ind f pring. balsam. Book V. j PARADISE L OS '1. 135 The cool, the silent, save where silence yields To the night-warbling bird, that now awake 40 Tunes sweetest his love-labored song ; now reigns Full orbed the moon and with more pleasing light Shadowy sets off the face of things ; in vain, If none regard : heaven wakes with all his eyes, Whom to behold but thee, Nature's desire ? 4c In whose sight all things joy, with ravishment Attracted by thy beauty still to gaze.' I rose as at thy call, but found thee not ; To find thee I directed then my Avalk ; And on, methought, alone I passed through ways 60 That brought me on a sudden to the tree Of interdicted knowledge : foir it seemed, Much fliirer to my fancy than by day ; And, as I wondering looked, beside it stood One shaped and winged like one of those from Heaven By us oft seen : his dewy locks distilled 56 Ambrosia ; on that tree he also gazed ; And, ' ftiir plant,' said he, ' with fruit surcharged, Deigns none to ease thy load and taste thy sweet, Nov God, nor man ? is knowledge so despised ? 60 Or envy, or what reserve forbids to taste ? Forbid who will, none shall from me withhold I/onger thy offered good, Avhy else set here ? ' This said, he paused not, but with venturous arm He phicked, he tasted ; me damp horror chilled 65 At suoh bold words vouched with a deed so bold ; But he thus, overjoyed : ' O fruit divine. Sweet of thyself, but much more sweet thus cropt, Forbidden here, it seems, as only fit For gods, yet able to make gods of men ; Vi •ind why not gods of men, since good, the more h2. interdicted, foxUMen. See m. vouched, siippoited ; fol- ^encsis ii. 16, 17. lowed up. ei. Does either envy or some reserve forbid to taste ? 136 PARADliit LUai. [Boos-V. Communicated, more abundant grows, TTie author not impaired, but honored more ? Here, happy creature, fair angelic Eve, Partake thou also ; happy though thou art, 76 Happier thou mayst be, worthier canst not be ; Taste this, and be henceforth among the gods, Thyself a goddess, not to earth confined, But sometimes in the air, as we, sometimes Ascend to Heaven, by merit thine, and see 80 What life the gods live there, and such live thou.* So Sctying, he drew nigh, and to me held, Even to my mouth of that same fruit held part Which he had plucked ; the pleasant savory smell So quickened appetite, that I, methought, 86 Could not but taste. Forthwith up to the clouds With him I flew, and underneath beheld The earth outstretched immense, a prospect wide And various ; wondering at my flight and change To this high exaltation, suddenly 90 My guide was gone, and I, methought, sunk down And fell asleep ; but O how glad I waked To find this but a dream ! " Thus Eve her night Related, and thus Adam answered sad : \ " Best Image of myself and dearer half, 36 ^ : The trouble of thy thoughts this night in sleep Aflects me equally ; nor can I like This uncouth dream, of evil sprung I fear ; Yet evil whence ? in thee can harbor none, J" Created pure. But know that in the soul ifyC ^^. Are many lesser faculties that serve ■ ' Reason as chief; among these Fancy next Her office holds ; of all external things, Which the five watchful senses represent, SO. by merit thine, which thou 81. sitch, such life, dfcservest. Sec II. 5. 98. xmcoulhy strangft Book V.] PARADISE LOST. 137 She forms imaginations, aery sliapes, lOB Which Reason joining or disjoining frames All what we affirm or what deny, and call Our knowledge or opinion ; then retires Into her private cell when Nature rests. Oft in her absence mimic Fancy wakes HO To imitate her ; but, misjoining shapes, Wild Avork produces oft, and most in dreams, ni matching words and deeds long past or late. Some such resemblances methinks I find Of our last evening's talk in this thy dream, • 116 But with addition strange ; yet be not sad : Evil into the mind of God or man May come and go, so unapproved, and leave No spot or blame behind ; which gives me hope That what in sleep thou didst abhor to dream 120 Waking thou never wilt consent to do. Be not disheartened then, nor cloud those looks That wont to be more cheerful and serene Than when foir morning first smiles on the world ; And let us to our fresh employments rise 125 Among the groves, the fountains, and the flowers That open now their choicest bosomed smells. Reserved from night, and kept for thee in store." So cheered he his fair spouse, and she was cheered ; But silently a gentle tear let fall 130 From either eye, and wiped them with her hair ; Two other precious drops that ready stood, Each in their crystal sluice, he ere they fell Kissed as the gracious signs of sweet remorse And pious awe that feared to have olTended. 13{ So all was cleared, and to the field they haste. 107. All what, all things what- 13-4. re-morse, compunction ; soever that. sorrow. 118. so, 60 it be. 136. cleared, maJe clear ; ej plained. 138 PARADISE LOST. [Book "V But first, from under shady arborous roof Soon as they forth were come to open sight Of day-spring and the sun (who scarce up-riseu, With wheels yet hovering o'er the ocean brim, 140 Shot parallel to the earth his dewy ray, Discovering in wide landscape all the east Of Paradise and Eden's happy plains), fLowly they bowed adoring, and began Their orisons, each morning duly paid 146 In various style ; for neither various style Nor holy rapture wanted they to praise Their INIaker, in fit strains pronounced or sung Unmeditated, such prompt eloquence Flowed from their lips, in prose or numerous verse, More tunable than needed lute or harp 151 To add more sweetness -^ and they thus began : " These are thy glorious works. Parent of good, Almighty ! thine this universal frame, Thus wondrous fair ; thyself how wondrous then 1 155 Unspeakable, who sitt'st above these heavens, To us invisible, or dimly seen J In these thy lowest works ; yet these declare ^ Thy goodness beyond thought, and power divine. ^ Speak, ye who best can tell, ye sons of light, 160 Angels ; for ye behold him, and with songs And choral symphonies, day without night, Circle his throne rejoicing ; ye in Pleaven. On earth join all ye creatures, to extol Him first, him last, him midst, and without end. x6S Fairest of stars, last in the train of night, 137. nrborous roof. See IV. 147. wanted they, were thej t90-697. wauting in, or unprovided with. 140. wheels. Phoebus, the Sun, US. pronounced, s\:)okcQ. was repres nion, th&t. tion of which brought these bod- four in number, run a />erpetjia} les into different situations with c/rc/c, one element mingling with, regard to the Earth, which was or, as it were, changing iaU\ an- supposed to be the centre of this o iier. and the other spheres. 140 PARADISE LOST. [Book V Till tlie sun paint yonr (leecy skirts with gold, In honor to the Avorld's great Author rise, Whether to deck with clouds the uncolored sky Or wet the thirsty earth with falling showers, 19C Rising or falling, still advance his praise. His praise, ye winds, that from four quarters blow, Breathe soft or loud ; and wave your tops, ye pines, With every plant, in sign of worship wave. Fountains, and ye that warble, as ye flow, 195 Melodious murmurs, warbling tune his praise. Join voices, all ye living souls ; ye birds, That singing up to Heaven-gate ascend. Bear on your wings and in your notes his praise. Ye that in waters glide, and ye that walk 200 The earth and stately tread or lowly creep, Witness if I be silent, morn or even, To hill or valley, fountain or fresh shade, Made vocal by my song and taught his praise. Hail, universal Lord, be bounteous still 205 To give us only good ; and, if the night Have gathered aught of evil, or concealed, Disperse it, as now light dispels the dark ! " So prayed they innocent, and to their thoughts Firm peace recovered soon and wonted calm. 210 On to their morning's rural work they haste Among sweet dews and flowers, where any row Of fi'uit trees over-woody reached too far Their pampered boughs, and needed hands to check Fruitless embraces : or they led the vine 215 To wed her elm ; she spoused about him tAvines Her marriageable arms, and with her brings Her dower, the adopted clusters, to adorn His barren leaves. Them thus employed beheld 189. wjircZored, without variety 207. Have gathered or conceale>^i of color. a ug/u of e ml. Book V.] PARADISE LOST. 141 With ]>ity Heaven's higli king, and to him called 23C Raphael, the sociable spirit, that deigned To travel with Tobias, and secured His marriage with the seven-times wedded maid. " Raphael," said he, " thou hear'st what stir on Earth Satan, from Hell scaped through the darksome gulf, Hath raised in Paradise, and how disturbed 22(i Tliis night the human pair, how he designs In them at once to ruin all mankind. ^^ Go therefore, half this day as friend with friend X '' ^Converse with Adam, in what bower or shade 230 Thou find'st him, from the heat of noon retired ^ .To respite his day-labor with repast ^k Or with repose; and such discourse bring on NsJ As may advise him of his happy state, Happiness in his power left free to will, 235 -J. Left to his own free will, his will though free ^^:.Yet mutable; whence warn him to beware ;^He swerve not, too secure : tell him withal ^ His danger, and from whom ; what enemy, Late fallen himself from Heaven, is plotting now 240 > The fall of others from like state of bliss ; "* By violence? no, for that shall be witlistood ; ' But by deceit and lies : this let him know, Lest wilfully transgressing he pretend Surprlsal, unadmonished, unforewarned." 245 So spake the eternal Father, and fulfilled All justice : nor delayed the winged saint 221-223. In the book of Tobit 226. disturbed, hath disturbed the angel Raphael is described as 2.30. ivhat, whateyer. the companion of Tobias, travel- 2-34. sdvise, inform, ling with him into Media and in- 2SS. secitre. See II. 399. structing him how to drive away 2i5. surprisal, to have been the evil spirit, that he might taken by surprise, marry the seven-times weddid maid. See IV. 168-171. 142 PARADISE LOST. [Book 7 After his charge received ; but from among Thousand celestial Ardors, where he stood Veiled with his gorgeous wings, up springing light, 25(1 Flew through tlie midst of Heaven ; the angelic quires, On each hand parting, to his speed gave way- Through all the empyreal road ; till at the gate Of Heaven arrived, the gate self-opened wide. On. golden hinges turning, as by work 265 Divine the sovran architect had framed. From hence (no cloud, or, to obstruct his sight, Star Interposed, however small) he sees, Not nnconforni to other shining globes, Earth, and the garden of God, with cedars crowned Above all hills : as when by night the glass 261 Of Galileo, less assured, observes Imagined lands and regions in the moon ; Or pilot from amidst the Cyclades Delos or Samos first appearing kens, 265 A cloudy spot. Down thither prone in flight He speeds, and through the vast ethereal sky Sails between worhls and worlds, with steady wing, Now on the polar winds, then with quick fan Winnows the buxom air ; till, within soar 270 Of towering eagles, to all the fowls he seems A phoenix, gazed by all, as that sole bird, 249. Ardors, briglit spirits ; of islands in the ^gean Sea or seraphim. Archipelago, east of Greece. They 250. Veiled with his gorgeous lie around Delos, the most im- ivings. " Above it stood the portant of them. Santos is far- seraphims : each one had six ther to the east than the Cy- wings ; with twain he covered his clades, on the coast of Asia Mi- face, and with twain he covered nor. his feet, and with twain he did 265. kens, sees at a distance ; By." Isaiah vi. 2. descries. 251. quires. See IV. 711. 270. Wi7inmvs, beats. — buxom, 259. unconform, unHkeinform. See II. 842. — toithin soar, having 261. the glass of Galileo. See descended to the region to which \. 287-291. tdic^rius eagles soar. 262. assured, certain. 272-274. The plianix was, aC' 264. the Cyclade!^ are a group cording to the ancient story, a Book v.] PARADISE J, OST. H3 Wlicn to enshrine his reliqiics in the Sun's Bi-ight temple, to Egyptian Thebes he flies. At once on the eastern clifT' of Paradise .375 . He lights, and to his proper shape returns, 'sc.-- A seraph winged : six wings he wore to shade ^^v His lineaments divine ; the pair that clad / Each shoulder broad came mantling o'er his breast ■■- ;^K With regal ornament ; the middle pair ^0 >J^ Girt like a starry zone his waist, and round -^Skirted his loins and thighs with downy gold .*t And colors dipped in heaven; the third his feet C Shadowed from either heel with feathered mail, . - ^ Sky-tinctured grain. Like Maia's son he stood, 2["5 <. And shook his plumes, tliat heavenly fragrance filled •.^ The circuit wide. Straight knew him all the bands ^- Of angels under watch, and to his state \ And to his message high in honor rise, 289 fror on some message high they guessed him bound. ^ ^ ■ Their glittering tents he passed, and now is come Into the blissful field, through groves of myrrh. And flowering odors, cassia, nard, and balm, A wilderness of sweets : for Nature here Wantoned as in her prime, and played at will 295 Her virgin fancies, pouring forth more sweet, Wild above rule or art, enormous bliss. Him, through the spicy forest onward come, Adam discerned, as in the door he sat bird that, after haying lived five 278. lineaments, form aa de- hundred years, built for itself a scribed or marked by lines, ftineral pile of cinnamon, spike- 281. zone, girdle, nard, and myrrh. As it drew 284. with feathered mail, cov- Ita last breath, a voung Phoenix ered with feathers overlapping sprang from its ashes, to live an- sach other like plates of armor, other five hundred vears, and 2%. Sky-tincturef/ strain, t'mged then die in like manner. Thus with the grain or color of the sky. It wiis that sole birr/. The young —Blaia's son, Mercury, the me«- bird carried the nest which con- senger of the gods, whose feet tained the ashes of its parent. Iiis were winged. See ITT. G03. elifjues. to Egypt, there to en- 289. in, in sign of. ihri7ie it in the Temple of the Sun. 297. enormous, beyoul or wltb 277-285. See lino 250 out measure. '44 PARADISE LOST. [Book V. Of his cool bower, while now the mounted sun 900 Shot clown direct his fervid rays to warm Earth's inmost womb, more warmth than Adam needs ; And Eve within due at her hour prepared For dinner savory fruits, of taste to please True appetite, and not disrelish thirst 305 Of nectarous draughts between, from milky stream, Beny or grape ; to whom thus Adam called : " Haste hither. Eve, and, Avorth thy sight, behold Eastward among those trees Mdiat glorious shape Comes this Avay moving, seems another morn 310 Risen on mid-noon ; some great behest from Heaven To us perhaps he brings, and will vouchsafe This day to be our guest. But go Avith speed, And what thy stores contain bring forth, and pour Abundance, fit to honor and receive 315 Our heavenly stranger : well we may afford Our givers their own gifts, and large bestow From large bestoAved, Avhere Nature multiplies Her fertile growth, and by disburdening grows More fruitful, Avhich instructs us not to spare." 320 To Avhom thus Eve : " Adam, earth's hallowed mould, Of God inspired ! small store will serve Avhere store All seasons ripe for use hangs on the stalk ; Save Avhat by frugal storing firmness gains To nourish, and superfluous moist consumes. 825 But I Avill haste, and from each bough and brake, Each plant and juiciest gourd, Avill pluck such choice To entertain our angel guest, as he Beholding shall confess, that here on Earth Grod hatli dispensed his bounties as in Heaven.** san 303. due, punctual. 321. See Genesis ii. 7. 310. seems^ that seems. 328. as, that. 811. behest, command. Book V.J FAkADISE LOST. 145 So sapng, witli despatcliful looks in hasto She turns, on hospitable thoughts intent What choice to choose for dehcacy best, Wliat order so contrived as not to mix Tastes, not well joined, inelegant, but bring Q38 Taste after taste upheld with kindliest change ; Bestirs her then, and from each tender stalk ^Yhatever Earth, all bearing mother, yields In India East or "West, or middle shore, In Pontus or the Punic coast, or where 34C Alcinoiis reigned, fruit of all kinds, in coat Rough or smooth rined, or bearded husk, or shell. She gathers, tribute large, and on the board Heaps with unsparing hand : for drink the grape She crushes, inoffensive must, and meathes &15 From many a berry, and from sweet kernels pressed She tempers dulcet creams^ ; nor these to hold Wants her fit vessels pure : then strews the ground With rose and odors from the shrub uufumed. Meanwhile our primitive great sire, to meet 350 His godlike guest, walks forth, without more train Accompanied than with his own complete Perfections ; in himself was all his state, 333. What choice, her thought the scanning of this line, see note \f3LS, tvhat choice. on III. 36. Here the second foot 335. 7iot well joined, inelegant, consists of three syllables. if not well joined or mixed after 34:2. Rgugh or smooth rined or careful selection, then not pleas- rinded, having a rough or smooth ing. rind. 339. middle shore, what lies he- 345. must, new wine pressed tween. from the grape, but not fer- 3i0. Pontus was in the north- mented ; therefore inoffensive, em part of Asia Minor. — the without intoxicating qualities.— Punic coast was the coast of menlhes^ meads. Carthage, in the north of Africa. 347. tempers, suitably prepares. 341. where Alcinous reigned. 348. Wants her, has she any AJcinous was the ruler of the lack of. Phaeacians, who entertained 349. nnfumed, giving forth its Ulysses in his island of Schcria, fragrance without being burned on the west of Greece, as related like incense. by Homer in the Odyssey. For 10 l40 rAitADJSE LOST. [Book V. More solemn than tlie tedious pomp that waits On princes, when their rich retinue long S8S Of horses led and grooms besmeared with gold Dazzles the crowd, and sets them all agape. Nearer his presence Adam, though not awed, Yet with submiss approach and reverence meek. As to a superior nature, bowing low, 80C Thus said : " Native of Heaven ! for other place None can than Heaven such glorious shape contain, Since, by descending from the thrones above. Those happy places thou hast deigned awhile To want and honor these, vouchsafe with us 365 Two only, who yet by sovran gift possess This spacious ground, in yonder shady bower To rest, and what the garden choicest bears To sit and taste, till this meridian heat Be over, and the sun more cool decline." 37u Whom thus the angelic Virtue answered mild : '■ Adam, I therefore came ; nor art thou such Created, or such place hast here to dwell, As may not oft invite, though spirits of Heaven, To visit thee : lead on then where thy bower d7fi O'ershades ; for these midliours, till evening riSe, I have at will." So to the sylvan lodge They came, that like Pomona's arbor smiled With flowerets decked and fragrant smells ; but Eve Undecked save with herself, more lovely fair 380 Than wood-nymph or the fairest goddess feigned Of three that in Mount Ida naked strove, 358. Nearer, when nearer to. 382. three. Juno, Minerva, and 359. submiss, submissive. Venus each claimed the prize of .365. To want, to be without; beauty. Jupiter sent them to to leave. M'liint Ida, where Paris, son of 371. Virtue. See II. 311. Priam king of Troy, was tending 374. though spirits, even spir- his flocks. He adjudged the prize its. to Venus, the fairest goiJdess 378. Pomona presided over feigned. Ilis decision was called fruit and its culture. the Judgment of Paris. Book V.] PARADISE LOST. 147 Stood 1.0 entertain her guest from Heaven : no veil She needed, virtue-proof; no thought infirm Altered her check. On whom the angel Hail ' 385 Bestowed, the holy salutation used Long after to blest Mary, second Eve : « Hail, mother of mankind, whose fruitful womL Shall fill the world more numerous with thy sons. Than with these various fruits the trees of God 390 Have heaped this table ! " Raised of grassy turf Their table was, and mossy seats had round, And on her ample square from side to side All autumn piled, though spring and autumn here Danced hand in hand. Awhile discourse they hold (No fear lest dinner cool), when thus began 396 Our author : " Heavenly stranger, please to taste These bounties, which our nourisher, from whom All perfect good unmeasured out descends To us for food and for delight, hath caused 400 The earth to yield ; unsavory food perhaps To spiritual natures ; only this I know, That one celestial Father gives to all." To whom the angel : " Therefore what he gives (Whose praise be ever sung ! ) to man in part 405 Spiritual, may of purest spirits be found No ingrateful food : and food alike those pure Intelllgential substances require, As doth your rational ; and both contain Within them every lower faculty 410 Of sejise, whereby they hear, see, smell, touch, taste ; 384. virtue-proof, strong or safe 394. piled, had all autumn, the in virtue. friiits of autumn, piled. 386. the holy salutnaon. "And 397. Our author, him from the ang:el came in unto her, and whom we derive our origin ; oui said, lliiil, thou that art highly first ancestor, favored." Luke i. 28. 406. of, by. 892. round is an adverb. 407. ingrateful, unpleasing. 893. ker^ its. 409. rational, rational Bub- stance. 1 48 PARADISE L Uis T. [Book V . Tasting concoct, digest, assimilate, And corporeal to incorporeal turn. For know, whatever was created needs To be sustained and fed ; of elements 414 The grosser feeds the purer, earth the sea, Earth and the sea feed air, the air those fires Ethereal, and as lowest first the moon ; Whence in her visage round those spots, unpurgcd Vapors not yet into her substance turned, 420 Nor doth the moon no nourishment exhale From her moist continent to higher orbs. The sun, tliat light imparts to all, receives From all his alimental recompense In humid exhalations, and at even 425 Sups with the ocean. Though in Heaven the trees Of life ambrosial fruitage bear, and vines Yield nectar ; though from off the boughs each morn We brush mellifluous dews, and find the ground Covered with pearly grain: yet God hath here 430 Varied his bounty so with new delights. As may compare with Heaven ; and to taste Think not I shall be nice." So down they sat, And to their viands fell ; nor seemingly The angel, nor in mist, the common gloss 435 Of theologians, but with keen despatch Of real hunger, and concoctive heat To transubstantiate ; what redounds transpires Through spirits with ease ; nor wonder, if by fire 419. vnpurged, which are un- 434. seemmg-/;/, only in appear • purged, or not yet cleared. The ance. word, if this punctuation is cor- 437. concoctive, having diges- rect, agrees with vapors. tive power. 422. See Hue 548. 438. transubstantiate, change 426. Sups ivitli the ocean, be- into his substance. ; — whij,t re- cause he seems to descend into it. dounds, what is redundant or 430./'^a?-/?/g-mm. manna, called superfluous. — transpires, is ex- in Psalm Ixxviii. ''angels' food." haled, as if through pores. See Exodus xvi. 14. 439. nor wonder, nor is it • 433. nice, over-nice : fastidious, wonder. Book V.] PARADISE LOST. 1 49 Of sooty coal the empiric alchemist 440 Can turn, or holds it possible to turn, Metals of drossiest ore to perfect gold As from the mine. Meanwhile at table Eve Ministered naked, and their flowing cups With pleasant liquors crowned. O innocence 446 Deserving Paradise ! if ever, then, Then had the sons of God excuse to have been Enamored at that sight ; but in those hearts Love unlibidinous reigned, nor jealousy Was understood, the injured lover's hell. 450 Thus when with meats and drink they had suffi(;ed, Not burdened nature, sudden mind arose In Adam not to let the occasion pass, Given him by this great conference, to know Of things above his world, and of their being 455 Who dwell in Heaven, whose excellence he saw Transcend his own so far, whose radiant forms Divine effulgence, whose high power so far Exceeded human, and his wary speech Thus to the empyreal minister he framed : 160 " Inhabitant with God, now know I well Thy favor, in this honor done to man, Under whose lowly roof thou hast vouchsafed To enter, and these earthly fruits to taste, Food not of angels, yet accepted so, iS5 As that more willingly thou couldst not seem At Heaven's high feasts to have fed : yet what com- pare ? " 440. empiric, derotcd ti, experi- 458. If forms be considered ments. The chemists of foniior as one of the su'.yects of ear- times, sought to change other ce^li-d, effidgence is iu apposi- metafs into gold. tion with it. \b^. occasion. See T. 178. mi. yet what compare, yei ho^ 154. this: great conference., this can the.^e i-arthbj /mils be com opportunity of conferring with pared to the food of angels so great a being on matters so high. 160 FARAD18E 1.0HT. [Book V To whom the wiuged Hlerarch replied : ■* O Adam, one ahnighty is, from whom All things proceed, and up to him return, 470 If not depraved fi-om good, created all Such to perfection, one first matter all, Endued with various forms, various degrees Of substance, and, in things that live, of life ; But more refined, more splritoua, and pure, 475 As nearer to him placed or nearer tending. Each in their several active spheres assigned, Till body up to spirit work, in bounds Proportioned to each kind. So from the root Springs lighter the green stalk, from thence the leaves 480 More aery, last the bright consummate flower Spirits odorous breathes : flowers and their fruit, Man's nourishment, by gradual scale sublimed. To vital spirits aspire, to animal, To intellectual ; give both life and sense, 485 Fancy and understanding ; whence the soul Reason receives, and reason is her being. Discursive or intuitive ; discourse Is oftest yours, the latter most is ours. Differing but in degree, of kind the same. 490 Wonder not, then, what God for you saw good If I refuse not, but convert, as you, To proper substance : time may come, when men With angels may participate, and find No inconvenient diet, nor too light fare ; 495 468. if/f rare/! , chief of a sacred 483. suhlhned, exalted; im« order; here, chief seraph. proved. 472. 5i!, revolutions- 640. showered^ Blioweied his 633. rubied, ruby -red. gifts. 638. secure of^ safe from ; -with- out danger of. \ 156 PARADISE LOST, [Book V. Spring both, the face of brightest heaven had changed To grateful twilight (for night comes not there 645 In darker veil), and roseate dews disposed ' All but the unsleeping eyes of God to rest; ' Wide over all the plain, and wider far Than all this globous earth in plain outspread (Such are the courts of God) the angelic throng, 650 ,X.. Dispersed in bands and files, their camp extend ■" By living streams among the trees of life, Pavilions numberless and sudden reared, Celestial tabernacles, where they slept Fanned with cool winds, save those who in their course Melodious hymns about the sovran throne 656 Alternate all night long : but not so waked Satan (so call him now, his former name Is heard no more in Heaven) ; he of the first. If not the first archangel, great in power, 660 In favor and preeminence, yet fraught With envy against the Son of God, that day Honored by his great Father, and proclaimed Messiah, king anointed, could not bear 664 Through pride that sight, and thought himself im- paired. Deep malice thence conceiving and disdain. Soon as midnight brought on the dusky hour Friendliest to sleep and silence, he resolved With all his legions to dislodge, and leave Unworshipped, unobeyed the throne supreme, 670 Contemptuous, and his next subordinate Awakening, thus to him in secret spake : 652. livhig streams. See Reve- 664. ilfl?5.^?■a/^ is a Hebrew word, ation vii. 17. meaning Anointed. The Greffe 655. in their course. This prob- word Christ has the same signi ably refers to the service of the fication. Temple, performed by the Priests 6lii). elisl.0'/s;e, remove ; depar* and Levites in thoir courses. See 671. his next subordinate Se« 1 Chronicles xxiii., xx.iv. and I 79-Sl. Luke i. 8, 9. Book V.] PARADISE LOST. 157 " ' Sleep'st thou, companion dear ? what sleep can close Thy eyelids ? and remember'st what decree Of yesterday so late hath passed the lips eVfi Of Heaven's Almighty ? Thou to me thy thought's Wast wont, I mine to thee was wont to impart ; Both waking we were one ; how then can now Thy sleep dissent ? New laws thou seest imposed ; New laws from him who reigns new minds may raise 6S0 In us who serve, new counsels, to debate What doubtful may ensue : more in this place To utter is not safe. Assemble thou Of all those myriads which we lead the chief; Tell them that by command, ere yet dim night 686 Her shadowy cloud withdraAvs, I am to haste, And all who under me their banners wave, Homeward witli flying march where we possess The quarters of the North ; there to prepare Fit entertainment to receive our King, 690 The great Messiah, and his new commands. Who speedily through all the hierarchies Intends to pass triumphant and give laws.' " So spake the false Archangel, and infused Bad influence into the unwary breast 696 Of his associate : he together calls, Or several one by one, the regent powers, Under him regent ; tells, as he was taught. That, the Most High commanding, now ere night, Now ere dim night had disencumbered Heaven, 700 The great hierarchal standard was to move ; 679. dissevt^ show difference of 698. him^ their leader, Satan, feeling, or want of sympathy. 699. See I'ne 685. 689. the North. See Isaiah xiv. 700. had, should have — dis- 13,14. encumbtred Heaven, left lleaven 697. several, severally. clear. 158 PARADISE LOST. [Book V Tells the suggested cause, and casts between Ambiguous words and jealousies, to sound Or taint integrity. But all obeyed The wonted signal, and superior voice 701 Of their great potentate ; for great indeed His name, and high was his degree in Heaven ; His countenance, as the morning star that guides The starry flock, allured them, and with lies Drew after him the third part of Heaven's host. 710 Meanwhile the eternal eye, whose sight discerns Abstrusest thoughts, from forth his holy mount, And from within the golden lamps that burn Nightly before him, saw without their light Rebellion rising ; saw in whom, how spread 716 Among the sons of morn, what multitudes Were banded to oppose his high decree : And smiling to his only Son thus said : " ' Son, thou in whom my glory I behold In full resplendence, Heir of all my might, 721 Nearly it now concerns us to be sure Of our omnipotence, and with what arms We mean to hold what anciently we claim Of deity or empire ; such a foe Is rising who intends to erect his throne 721 Equal to ours, throughout the spacious North ; Nor so content, hath in his thought to try In battle what our power is, or our right. Let us advise, and to this hazard draw With speed what force is left, and all employ 780 In our defence, lest unawares we lose This our high place, our sanctuary, our hill.* 708. «/ie morning - star. "0 713. Zaw?;?.^. See Revelation ir. 6. Lucifer, son of the morning." 727. so, with that, tsaiah xiv. 12. 729. ar/f/.-' Reaching beyond all limit, at one blow 140 Unaided could have finished thee, and whelmed Thy legions under darkness. But thou seest All are not of thy train ; there be who faith Prefer and piety to God, though then To thee not visible when I alone 145 Seemed in thy world erroneous to dissent From all ; my sect thou seest : now learn too late How few sometimes may know, when thousands err. " Whom the grand foe, with scornful eye askance, Thus answered : ' 111 for thee, but in wished hour 150 Of my revenge, first sought for, thou return'st From flight, seditious angel, to receive Thy merited reward, the first assay Of this right hand provoked, since first that tongue, Inspired with contradiction, durst oppose 15S A third part of the gods, in synod met 129. prevention, anticipation. 148. How feiv, one, or onlj 130. secKrfly, Mithout fear. one. 139. solitari/, single. 150. Ill, unhappily. 146. erroneous, misled ; mis- 151. first souifiit for, whom I aken. sought first to meet. 147. my sent, my party. Book VI.] PARADISE LOST. 171 Their deities to assert, who, while they feel Vigor divine within them, can allow Omnipotence to none. But well thou com'st Before thy fellows, ambitious to win 160 From me some plume, that thy success may show Destruction to the rest : this pause between (Unanswered lest thou boast) to let thee know, At first I thought that liberty and Heaven To heavenly souls had been all one ; but now 165 I see that most through sloth had rather serve, Ministering spirits, trained up in feast and song : Such hast thou armed, the minstrelsy of Heaven, ServiUty with freedom to contend, 1G9 As both their deeds compared this day shall prove.^; " To whom in brief thus Abdiel stern replied : ' Apostate, still thou err'st, nor end wilt find Of erring, from the faith of truth remote : Unjustly thou deprav'st it with the name Of servitude, to serve whom God ordains ^'^ Or Nature ; God and Nature bid the same. When he who rules is worthiest, and excels Them whom he governs. This is servitude. To serve the unwise, or him who hath rebelled Against his worthier, as thine now serve thee, ISO Thyself not free, but to thyself enthralled ; Yet lewdly dar'st our ministering upbraid. Reign thou in Hell, thy kingdom ; let me serve In Heaven God ever blest, and his divine Behests obey, worthiest to be obeyed : ^ 18J Yet chains in Hell, not realms, expect ; meanwhile 161. success, fortune ; ill sue- shall be heirs of salvation ? " H« cesF. t)rews i. 1-1. 167 Ministering spirits, as 17.3. remote, fixr Tcmo\ed. loinisterin^ spirits. " Arc they 11-i. deprav'st, diifumest. aot all ministering spirits, sent 175 whotn, bim whom, forth to uiinister for them who 182 lewdltj, wickedly 172 PARADISE LOST. From me returned, as erst tbou salclst, from flight, This greeting on thy impious crest receive.' " So saying, a noble stroke he lifted high, Which hung not, but so swift ^^■ith tempest fell On the proud crest of Satan, that no sight, Nor motion of swift thought, less could his shield Such ruin intercept : ten paces huge lie back recoiled ; the tenth on bended knee His massy spear upstayed ; as if on earth Winds under ground, or waters forcing way, Sidelong had pushed a mountain from his seat, Half sunk with all his pines. Amazement seized Tlie rebel thrones, but greater rage, to see Thus foiled their mightiest ; ours joy filled, and shout. Presage of victory, and fierce desire 201 Of battle, whereat Michael bid sound _ The archangel trumpet : through the vast of Heaven ?"S^ It sounded, and the faithful armies rung '^te- Hosanna to the Highest ; nor stood at gaze 206 ^^?~" The adverse legions, nor less hideous joined '^ /"^ The horrid shock. Now storming fury rose, C9^ And clamor such as heard in Heaven till now Was never ; arms on armor clashing brayed Horrible discord, and the madding wheels 210 Of brazen chariots raged ; dire was the noise Of conflict ; overhead the dismal hiss Of fiery darts in flaming volleys flew, And flying vaulted either host with fire. So under fiery coj)e together rushed 211 Both battles main, with ruinous assault And inextinguishable rage ; all Heaven 190. hung, lingered ; delayed, tenth being the object of th« — temj-fst, fury ; violence. verb. 192. less, still less. 21'1. vaulted, covered as witfc 195. his massi/ spKir. See I. an arch. i^2-^^. — upstayed, held up, the 216. bailies, hosts % ^ Book VI.] PARADISE LOST. 173 Resounded, and had Earth been then, all Earth Had to her centre shook. What wonder ? when Millions of fierce encountering angels fought 22C On either side, the least of whom could wield These elements, and arm him with the force Of all their regions : how much more of power Army against army numberless to raise Dreadful combustion warring, and disturb 225 Though not destroy their happy native seat ;, Had not the eternal king omnipotent From his stronghold of Heaven high oveiTuled And limited their might ; though numbered such As each divided legion might have seemed 230 A numerous host, In strength each armed hand A legion ; led in fight, yet leader seemed Each warrior single as In chief, expert Wlien to advance, or stand, or turn the sway Of battle, open when, and when to close 235 The ridges of grim war : no thought of flight, None of retreat, no unbecoming deed That argued fear ; each on himself relied, As only in his arm the moment lay Of victory. Deeds of eternal fame 240 Were done, but infinite, for wide was spread That war and various ; sometimes on firm ground A standing fight, then soaring on main wing Tormented all the air ; all air seemed then Conflicting fire. Long time in even scale * 246 The battle hung ; till Satan, who that day 219. had shook, -would have 230. As, that, shaken. 233. as, as if. — in chief, In 222. TViese elements^ this world, command, composed of elements. 236. ridges, rows or ranks. 224. to raise, had or possessed 238. argued, gave proof of. to raise. 239. wo/nenf, momentum ; 225. combustion, confusion, tur- power. moil. 244. Tormented, vexed; agi- 529. numbered such, in such tated. nambers. IT-l PARADISE LOST. [Book VT Prodigious power had shown, and met in arms No equal, ranging through the dire attack Of fighting seraphim confused, at length Saw where the sword of Michael smote, and felled 250 Squadrons at once ; Avith huge two-handed sway Brandished aloft the horrid edge came down Wide wasting : such destruction to withstand He hasted, and opposed the rocky orb Of tenfold adamant, his ample shield, 256 A vast circumference. At his approach The great Archangel from his warlike toil Surceased, and glad, as hoping here to end Intestine war in Heaven, the arch-foe subdued Or captive dragged in chains, with hostile frown 260 And visaire all inflamed first thus began : " ' Author of evil, unknown till thy revolt, Unnamed in Heaven, now plenteous, as thou seest These acts of hateful strife, hateful to all, Though heaviest by just measure on thyself 265 And thy adherents ; how hast thou disturbed Heaven's blessed peace, and into Nature brought Misery, uncreated till the crime Of thy rebellion ! how hast thou instilled Thy malice into thousands, once upright 27U ^nd faithful, now proved fiilse ! But think not here To trouble holy rest : Heaven casts thee out From all her confines ; Heaven, the seat of bliss, Brooks not the works of violence and war. Hence then, and Evil go with thee along, 271 Thy offspring, to the place of evil. Hell, Thou and thy wicked crew ; there mingle broils ; Ere this avenging sword begin thy doom, 251. sioay^ swing ; sweep. 255. his ample shield. See I. «84-287. 258. Surceased, ceased. 263. plenteous, abundant. Book VI.] PARADISE LOST. 175 Or some more sudden vengeance, winged from God, Precipitate thee with augmented pain.' 280 " So spake the prince of angels ; to whom thus The Adversary : ' Nor think thou with wind Of aery threats to awe whom yet with deeds Thou canst not. Hast thou turned the least of these To flight, or if to fall, but that they rise 285 Unvanquished, easier to transact with me That thou shouldst hope, imperious, and with threals To chase me hence ? Eit not that so shall end The strife Avhich thou call'st evil, but we style The strife of glory ; which we mean to win, 290 Or turn this Heaven itself into the Hell Thou fablest ; here hoAvever to dwell free. If not to reign : meanwhile thy utmost force. And join him named Almighty to thy aid, I fly not, but have sought thee far and nigh.' 295 " They ended parle, and both addressed for fight Unspeakable ; for who, though with the tongue Of angels, can relate, or to what things Liken on earth conspicuous, that may lift Human imagination to such height 300 Of godlike power ? for likest gods they seemed, Stood they or moved, in stature, motion, arms, Fit to decide the empire of great Heq^ven. Now waved their fiery swords, and in the air Made horrid circles ; two broad suns their shields 305 Blazed opposite, while expectation stood 280. Precipitate thee, hurl thee 292. to dwell, we mean to dwell, headlong. 294. And join, though thou 282. The Adversary. See I. 82. join. 283. ivhoin, him -whom.. 296. T^arZp, parley. — addressed 285. but that they, only to. addres-sed themselves ; prepared 286. easier, that thou shonldit 302. Stood they or moved, hope to find it easier. — to trans- whether they stood or Tioved. act, to deal. 2SS. Err not, think not erring- ly or mistakenly. Ito^^J 176 PARADISE LOST. [Book VT [n horror : from each hand with speed reth-ed, r^ Where erst was thickest fight, the angelic throng, And left large field, unsafe within the Avind Of such commotion ; such as (to set forth 31C Great things by small) if, Nature's concord broke, Among the constellations war were sprung, Two planets rushing from aspect malign Of fiercest opposition in mid-sky Should combat, and their jarring spheres confound. Together both, with next to almighty arm 31Q UpHfted imminent, one stroke they aimed That might determine, and not need repeat As not of power at once ; nor odds appeared In might or swift prevention ; but the sword 320 Of Michael from the armory of God Was given him tempered so, that neither keen Nor solid might resist that edge : it met The sword of Satan with steep force to smite Descending, and in half cut sheer ; nor stayed, 325 But with swift wheel reverse, deep entering shared All his right side ; then Satan first knew pain, And writhed him to and fro convolved ; so sore The griding sword with discontinuous wound Passed through him ; but the ethereal substance closed. Not long divisible ; and from the gash 331 A stream of nectarous humor issuing flowed Sanguine, such as celestial spirits may bleed, And all his armor stained, erewhile so bright. Forthwith on all sides to his aid was run 835 By angels many and strong, who interposed 313. aspect malign. According 325. in half cut sheer, out it to the astrologer.?, planets in op- quite in two. ;)Osition to each other were of 326. tvith sivifl wheel reverse, malign aspect, threatening evil. • quickly turned upwards. — shared. 317. inmiinent, threatening. cut. 318. determine, bring to an 329. griding., harshly cutting end. — repeat, to be repeated; — discontinuous., SQ:^ex&img. rtjpetiUon. 2^b. ivas run. This is a Latin.' 319. of power, powerful enough, ism ; the verb is impersonal. Th« B(X)K VI.] PARADISE LOST. Ill 840 S15 350 Defence, wLile others bore him on their shields Back to his chariot, where it stood retired P'rom off the files of war ; there they him laid Gnashing for anguish and despite and shame, To find himself not matchless and his pride Humbled by such rebuke, so for beneath His confidence to equal God in power. Yet soon he healed ; for spirits that live throughout Vital in every part, not as frail man^ In entrails, heart or head, liver or reins, Cannot but by annihilating die ; Nor in their liquid texture mortal wound Receive, no more than can the fluid air : All heart they live, all head, all eye, all ear, All intellect, all sense ; and as they please They limb themselves, and color, shape, or size Assume, as likes them best, condense or rare. - " Ikleanwhile in other parts like deeds deserved Memorial, where the might of Gabriel fought. And Avith fierce ensigns pierced the deep array Of Moloch, furious king, who him defied. And at his chariot-wheels to drag him bound Threatened, nor from the Holy One of Heaven Refrained his tongue blasphemous ; but anon, Down cloven to the Avaist, with shattered arms And uncouth pain fled bellowing. On each Aving Uriel and Raphael his vaunting foe, Though huge and in a rock of diamond armed, Vanquished, Adramelech and Asmadai, 365 Two potent Thrones, that to be less than gods Disdained, but meaner thoughts learned in their flight; X 355 36C N \ English idiom would be, angels many and slrn7ig ran to his aid. 346. In, only in. 362. limb themselves, take to themselves limbs. 12 357. furious king. See I. 3 362. %incoutlu strange. 363. his, each his. 366. Thrones. See Q. 310. 178 PARADISE LOST. Book VI, Mangled with ghastly wounds through plate and Nor stood unmindful Abdiel to annoy The atheist crew, but with redoubled blow Ariel and Arioch and the violence Of Ramiel scorched and blasted overthrew. I might relate of thousands, and their names Eternize here on earth ; but those elect Angels, contented with their fame in Heaven, Seek not the praise of men : the other sort. In might though wondrous and in acts of war, Nor of renown less eager, yet by doom Cancelled from Heaven and sacred memory, Nameless in dark oblivion let them dwell ; For strength, from truth divided and from just, Illaudable, nought merits but dispraise And ignominy, yet to glory aspires Vainglorious, and through infamy seeks fame : Therefore eternal silence be their doom. mail. 870 / 876 JS^j X 386 " And now, their mightiest quelled, the battle swerved. With many an inroad gored ; deformed rout Entered, and foul disorder ; all the ground With shivered armor strewn, and on a heap Chariot and charioteer lay overturned, 390 And fiery foaming steeds ; what stood recoiled O'erwearied through the faint Satanic host Defensive scarce, or with pale fear surprised (Then first with fear surprised and sense of pain) Fled iirnominious, to such evil brouirht 895 868. plate and mail, the two kinds of armor, one composed of broad pieces of metal, the other being a kind of network. 374. Eternize., make immor- tal. 382. Illaudable, not worthy of able to defend themselves — praise. connects recoiled and ^ed. 886. battle, main body. Fee line 216. 891. rvhat stood recoiled, the part which had not fallen fell back. 393. Defensive scarce, scarcely Booryi] paradise lost. 179 By sin of disobedience, till tliat hour -^ Not liable to fear or flight or pain. ^CT^' Far otherwise the inviolable saints ^^ In cubic phalanx firm advanced entire, Invulnerable, impenetrably armed ; 401' Such high advantages their innocence Gave them above their foes, not to have sinned, Not to have disobeyed ; in fight they stood Unwearied, unobnoxious to be pained KW By wound, though from their place by violence moved, " Now Night her course began, and, over Heaven y Inducing darkness, grateful truce imposed, ^^ And silence on the odious din of war : Under her cloudy covert both retired, Victor and vanquished. On the foughten field 410 Michael and his angels prevalent Encamping placed in guard their watches round, Cherubic waving fires : on the other part ^ Satan with his rebellious disappeared, Far in the dark dislodged ; and, void of rest, 415 His potentates to council called by night. And in the midst thus undismayed began : " ' now in danger tried, now known in arms Not to be overpowered, companions dear, Found worthy not of liberty alone, 420 Too mean pretence, but, what we more affect, Honor, dominion, glory, and renown ; Who have sustained one day in doubtful fight (And if one day, why not eternal days ?) What Heaven's lord had powerfuUest to send 128 Against us from about his throne, and judged 399. cubic, square and solid. 407. Inducing, bringing ; letul- See line 62. ingon. _ 404. unobnoxious, not Uable. 411. prevalent, having pro- vailed ; victorioiis. 180 PARADISE LOST. [Book VI Sufficient to subdue us to his Avill, But proves not so ; then fallible, it seems, Of future we may deem him, though till now Omniscient thought. True is, less firmly armed 480 Some disadvantage we endured and pain Till now not known, but known, as soon contemned ; Since now we find this our empyreal form Incapable of mortal injury, Imperishable, and, though pierced with wound, 435 Soon closing and by native vigor healed. Of evil then so small as easy think The remedy ; perhaps more valid arms, Weapons more violent, when next we meet, May serve to better us and %^'orse our foes, 440 ^ Or equal what between us made the odds, ^ In nature none : if other hidden cause Left them superior, while we can preserve Unhurt our minds and understanding sound, Due search and consultation will disclose.' 445 " He sat ; and in the assembly next upstood Nisroch, of principalities the prime; As one he stood escaped from cruel fight, Sore toiled, his riven arms to havoc hewn, And cloudy in aspect thus answering spake : 450 Deliverer from new lords, leader to free Enjoyment of our right as gods ; yet hard For gods and too unequal work we find, Against unequal arms to fight in pain. Against unpalned, impassive ; from which evil 46£ Ruin must needs ensue ; for what avails 428. Biit, but which. 447. In 2 Kings xix. 37, Ms- 429. Of future, with respect to roch is a god of the Assyrians, the future. 449. tciled, wearied ; worn 430. is, it is. with toil. 432. But contemned as soon as 455. urtpained, those who feel Vnown. no pain. — impassive, wlio can 442. Fn nature none, there be- not suffer. tag none in nature. V n Book VI.] PARADISE LOST. 181 Valor or strengih, tliougli matcliless, quelled witk pain VVliich all subdues, and makes remiss the hands Of mightiest ? Sense of pleasure we may well Spare out of life perhaps, and not repine, 460 But live content, which is the calmest life ; But pain is pertect misery, the worst Of evils, and excessive overtm-ns All patience. He who therefore can invent \Vith what more forcible we may ofiend 466 Our yet un wounded enemies, or arm Ourselves with like defence, to me deserves No less than lor deliverance what we owe.* " Whereto with look composed Satan replied : ' Not unin vented that, which thou aright 470 Believ'st so main to our success, I bring. Which of us who beholds the bright surliice Of this ethereous mould whereon we stand, This continent of spacious Heaven, adorned 474 With plant, fruit, flower ambrosial, gems, and gold, Whose eye so superficially surveys These things as not to mind from whence they grow Deep under ground, materials dark and crude, Of spirltous and fiery spume, till touched With Heaven's ray and tempered they shoot forth So beauteous, opening to the ambient light ? 481 These in their dark nativity the deep Shall yield us, pregnant with infernal flame ; Which into hollow engines long and round Thick rammed, at the other bore with touch of fire 465. offend, attack ; injure. 476. Whose. See line 472. 467. to me, to my miud ; in 482. nativity, native state or my opinion. place. 468. u-hat toe owe, what we 485. the other bore, the opening should owe. at other end of the hollow en 471 . main, important. gines. 1 82 PARADISE L OS T. [Book Vi Dilated and infuriate, shall send forth 486 From far with thundering noise among our foes Such implements of mischief, as shall dash To pieces and o'erwhelm whatever stands Adverse, that they shall fear we have disarmed 490 The Thunderer of his only dreaded bolt. Nor long shall be our labor ; yet ere dawn Effect shall end our wish. Meanwhile revive ; Abandon fear ; to strength and counsel joined Think nothing hard, much less to be despaired." 49£ " He ended, and his words their drooping cheer Enlightened, and their languished hope revived. The invention all admired, and each how he To be the inventor missed, so easy it seemed Once found, which yet unfound most would have thought 600 Impossible : yet haply of thy race,. , In future days, if malice should abound, Some one intent on mischief, or inspired With devilish machination, might devise Like instrument to plague the sons of men 5or> For sin, on war and mutual slaughter bent. Forthwith from council to the work they flew ; None arguing stood ; innumerable hands Were ready ; in a moment up they turned Wide the celestial soil, and saw beneath 510 The originals of Nature in their crude Conception ; sulphurous and nitrous foam They found, they mingled, and with subtle art Concocted and adusted they reduced To blackest grain, and into store conveyed : 515 Part hidden veins digged up (nor hath this earth 490. that, so that. 497. Enlightened, msLdehnghi 495. despaired, despaired of. 514. adusted, dried by heat. 496. cheer, state of miud as tzpresBed iu tlieir couuteuauce. Book VI.] PARADISE LOST. 183 Entrails unlike) of mineral and stone, Whereof to found their engines and their balls Of missive ruin ; part incentive reed Provide, pernicious with one touch to fire. 620 So all ere day-spring, under conscious night, Secret they finished and in order set, With silent circumspection, unespied^ / ' F " Now when fair morn orient in Heaven appeared, Up rose the victor angels, "ind to arms 525 The matin trumpet sung * in arms they stood Of golden panoply, refulgent host. Soon banded ; others from the dawning hills Looked round, and scouts each coast light- armed scour. Each quarter, to descry the distant foe, 530 Where lodged, or whither fled, or if for fight, ^-. In motion or in halt : him soon they met V* Under spread ensigns moving nigh, in slow But firm battalion ; back with speediest sail Zophiel, of cherubim the swiftest wing, 535 Came flying, and in mid-air aloud thus cried : " ' Arm, warriors, arm for fight ! the foe at hand, Whom fled we thought, will save us long pursuit This day ; fear not his flight ; so thick a cloud He comes, and settled in his face I see 540 Sad resolution and secure : let each His adamantine coat gird well, and each Fit well his helm, gripe fest his orbed shield. Borne even or high ; for this day will pour down. If I conjecture aught, no drizzling shower, 545 But rattling storm of arrows barbed with fire.' 518. /"oKnr/, cast. See I. 703. 521. conscious, knowing to; 519. 'incentive, kindling ; incen- being a witness of. live reed, a match. 541. Sad, serious. 620. pernicious. This word is 544. even or high, level or up here perhaps used in the sense right of the Latin " pernix," quick 184 PARADISE LOST. [Book YI. " So warned he them, aware themselves, and soon In order, quit of all impedhnent ; Instant without disturb they took alarm, And onward moved embattled : when behold 550 Not distant far with heavy pace the foe Approaching gross and huge, in hollow cube Training his devilish enginery, impaled On every side with shadowing squadrons deep, To hide the fraud. At interview both stood 655 Awhile ; but suddenly at head appeared Satan, and thus was heard commanding loud : " ' Vanguard, to right and left the front unfold ; That all may see who hate us how we seek Peace and composure, and with open breast 560 Stand ready to receive them, if they like Our overture and turn not back perverse : But that I doubt ; however, witness Heaven, Heaven witness thou anon, while we discharge Freely our part. Ye who appointed stand, 565 Do as you have in charge, and briefly touch What we propound, and loud that all may hear/ " So scoffing in ambiguous Avords, he scarce Had ended, when to right and left the front Divided, and to either flank retired ; 57O Which to our eyes discovered, new and strange, A triple mounted row of pillars laid On wheels (for like to pillars most they seemed. Or hollowed bodies made of oak or fir, With branches lopped, in wood or mountain felled), 676 648. quit of, free from. — im- train. — impaled, surrounded a» ^pediment, the Latin " impedi- with pales ; fenced in . menta," the baggage of an army. 555. At interview, gazing at or 549. took alarm, roused them- eyeing eacli other, selves. 5G0. composure, composition 553. Training, drawing in settlement of differences. V Book VI.] PARADISE LOST. 185 Brass, iroji, stony mould, had not their mouths With hideous orifice gaped on us wide, Portending hollow truce : at each behind A seraph stood, and in his hand a reed Stood waving tipped with fire ; while we suspense 580 Collected stood within our thoughts amused ; Not long, for sudden all at once their reeds Put forth, and to a narrow vent applied With nicest touch. Immediate in a flame 584 But soon obscured with smoke^all Heaven appeared. From those deep-throated engines belched, whose roar Embowelled with outrageous noise the air, And all her entrails tore, disgorging foul Their devilish glut, chained thunderbolts and hail Of iron globes ; which, on the victor host 69C Levelled, with such impetuous fury smote That whom they hit none on their feet might stand^ Though standing else as rocks, but down they fell By thousands, angel on archangel rolled, The sooner for their arms ; unarmed they might 695 Have easily as spirits evaded swift By quick contraction or remove ; but now Foul dissipation followed and forced rout ; Nor served it to relax their serried files. What should they do ? If on they rushed, repulse 000 Repeated, and indecent overthrow Doubled, would render them yet more despised, And to their foes a laughter ; for in view Stood ranked of seraphim another row, [n posture to displode their second tire e)5 Of thunder: back defeated to return 576. stony. Cannons were m 598. Fotil dissipation, shame- former times sometimes made of ful dispersion. Btoae. 599. Nor served it, noi was it 5S0. suspense, held in su>pense. cf any use. — serried. See I. 548. 581. amused, musing; or, per- 605. In posture to displode, in \aps, amazed. the attitude proper for ilischarg- 592. whom, of those whom. ing. — tire, tier ; rank 186 PARADISE LOST. [Book VI They woi'se abhorred. Satan beheld their plight, And to his mates thus in derision called : " ' friends, why coine not on these victors proud ? Erewhile they fierce were coming ; and when we 61C To entertain them fiiir with open front And breast (what could ive more ?) propounded terms Of composition, straight they changed their minds, Flew oif, and into strange vagaries fell, 614 As they would dance ; yet for a dance they seemed Somewhat extravagant and wild, perhaps . For joy of offered peace: but I suppose, If our proposals once again were heard, We should compel them to a quick result.' " To whom thus Belial in like gamesome mood : 620 ' Leader, the terms we sent were terms of weight, Of hard contents, and full of force urged home, Such as we might perceive amused them all. And stumbled many ; who receives them right, Had need from head to foot well understand ; 625 -^ Not understood, this gift they have besides. They show us when our foes walk not upright. " So they among themselves in pleasant vein Stood scoffing, heightened in their thoughts beyond All doubt of victory ; eternal might 630 To match with their inventions they presumed So easy, and of his thunder made a scorn, And all his host derided, while they stood Awhile in trouble : but they stood not long ; Rage prompted them at length, and found them armi Against such hellish mischief fit to oppose. 634 Forthwith (behold the excellence, the power 615. ^5, as if. 632. his refers to eternal might S23. aynused. See line 581. personified. \ Book VI.] PARADISE LOST. 187 Which God hath in his mighty angels placed !) Their arms away they threw, and to tlie hills (For Earth hath this variety from Heaven 640 Of pleasure situate in hill and dale) Light as the lightning glimpse they ran, they flew ; From their foundations loosening to and fro They plucked the seated hills with all their load, Rocks, waters, woods, and by the shaggy tops 645 Uplifting bore them in their hands. Amaze, Be sure, and terror seized the rebel host, When coming towards them so dread they saw The bottom of the mountains upward turned ; Till on those cursed engines triple-row 650 They saw them whelmed, and all their confidence Under the weight of mountains buried deep ; Themselves invaded next, and on their heads Main promontories flung, which in the air 654 Came shadowing, and oppressed whole legions armed ; Their armor helped their harm, crushed in and bruised Into their substance pent, which wrought them pain Implacable, and many a dolorous groan. Long struggling underneath, ere they could wind Out of such prison, though spirits of purest light. 660 Purest at fii*st, now gross by sinning grown. The rest, in imitation, to like arms Betook them, and the neighboring hills uptore ; So hills amid the air encountered hills, Hurled to and fro with jaculation dire, 668 That under ground they fought in dismal shade ; Infernal noise ; war seemed a civil game 640. hath, hath derived {from Heaven). 651. all their confidence, all in lyhich they trusted. 653. Themselves invaded next, they saw (line 651) themselves next assailed. Q^o. oppressed, orerpcwered ; pre.'^sed do^s-n. 656. helped theirharm, increas- ed their suffering. 658. Implacable, not to be al- layed. 665. jaculation, throwing. 667. civil, peaceful. \ 188 PARADISE LOST. [Book VI To this uproar ; horrid confusion heaped Upon confusion rose. And now all Heaven Had gone to wrack, with ruin overspread, Had not the almighty Father, where he sits ^^ Shrined in his sanctuary of Heaven secure, ->^ Consulting on the sum of things, foreseen ^ , This tumult, and permitted all, advised ; That his great purpose he might so fulfil, To honor his anointed Son avenged Upon his enemies, and to declare All power on him transferred : whence to his Son, The assessor of his throne, he thus becfan : 670 ^^ 675 " ' Effulgence of my glory. Son beloved, 680 Son in whose face invisible is beheld Visibly what by deity I am, And in whose hand what by decree I do. Second Omnipotence ! two days are past. Two days, as we compute the days of Heaven, 686 Since Michael and his j)owers went forth to tame These disobedient : sore hath been their fight. As likeliest was when two such foes met armed ; For to themselves I left them, and thou kuow'st Equal in their creation they were formed, 690 Save what sin hath impaired, which yet hath wrought Insensibly, for I suspend their doom ; Whence in perpetual fight they needs must last Endless, and no solution will be found. War wearied hath performed what war can do, 695 And to disordered rage let loose the reins. 668. To, compared with. 670. wrack, wreck. 674. advised, by design ; ad- visedly. 677. declare, make clearly known. G79. assessor, one who sits near M sharing his dignity 681. ini'isible, refers to ivhat by deity I am. " "Who is the image of the invisible God." Colossiana i. 15. 682. by deity, in myself as God 683. in whose hand, in whos« acts is beheld. 692. Insensibly, gradually ; bj slow degrees Book VI.] PARADISE LOST. 189 With mountains as with -weapons armed, whicb makes Wild work in Heaven, and dangerous to the main. Two days are therefore past, the third is thine ; For thee I have ordained it, and thus far TOO Have suffered, that the glory may be thine Of ending this great war, since none but thou Can end it. Into thee such virtue and grace Immense I have transfused, that all may know In Heaven and Hell thy power above compare ; 7t\ft And this perverse commotion governed thus. To manifest thee worthiest to be heir Of all things, to be heir and to be king By sacred unction, thy deserved right. Go then, thou Mightiest, in thy Father's might, 7lo Ascend my chariot, guide the rapid wheels That shake Heaven's basis, bring forth all ray war, My bow and thunder, my almighty arras Gird on, and sword upon thy puissant thigh ; Pursue these sons of darkness, drive them out 715 From all Heaven's bounds into tiie utter deep : There let them learn, as likes them, to despise God and Messiah his anointed king." " He said, and on his Son with rays direct Shone full ; he all his Father full expressed 720 Ineffably into his face received ; And thus the filial Godhead answering spake : " ' O Father, O Supreme of heavenly thrones, First, Highest, Holiest, Best ! thou always seek'st 698. JTJam, vrhole. 721. Ineffably^ in a manner not 701. suffered, allowed • permit- to be expressed by words, ted. 725. To glorify. "And now, 706. governed, have I directed. Father, glorify thou me with 714. Gird on. See Psalm xlv 3 thine own self, with the glory 716 litter, outer. which I had with thee before th« 717 /iA;es, pleases world was." John xrii. 6. 190 PARADISE LOST. [Book VI To glorify tliy Son, I always Thee, 725 As is most j ust : this I my glory account, My exaltation, and my whole delight, That thou in me well pleased declar'st thy will Fulfilled, which to fulfil is all my bliss. Sceptre and power, thy giving, I assume, And gladlier shall resign, when in the end Thou shalt be all in all, and I in thee ^■ For ever, and in me all whom thou lov'st : But whom thou hat'st I hate, and can put on Thy terrors, as I put thy mildness on, 735 Lnage of thee in all things ; and shall soon, Armed with thy might, rid Heaven of these rebelled, To their prepared ill mansion driven down, To chains of darkness and the undying worm, That from thy just obedience could revolt, 740 Whom to obey is happiness entire. Then shall thy saints unmixed, and from the impure Far separate, circling thy holy mount. Unfeigned hallelujahs to thee sing, Hymns of high praise, and I among them chief 745 30 .grrqr ^^ ^ " So said, he o'er his sceptre bowing rose From the right hand of glory where he sat ; And the third sacred morn began to shine, Dawning through Heaven : forth rushed with whirl- wind sound The chariot of paternal Deity, 750 Flashing thick flames, wheel within wheel, undrawn. 728. well pleased. See Matthew Kvii. 5. 729. ivhkh to fulfil. "Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his mprk." John IV. 34. 732. all in all. See 1 Cor. xv. 28. — I in thee. See John xvii. 21. 737. rebelled., who have rebelled. 739. the undying ivorm. "Where their worm dieth not." Markix. 44. 751. ivheel loithin loheel. "And their appearance and their work was as it were a wheel in the middle of a wheel." Ezekiel i 16. Compare lines 749-759 with Ezekiel i. 4-28. Book VI.] PARADISE LOST. 191 "T Itself instinct with spirit, but conveyed ^^ By four cherubic shapes : four foces each '^ Had wondrous ; as with stars their bodies all -•* - And wings Avere set with eyes, with eyes the wheels Of beryl, and careering fires between ; 756 Over their heads a crystal firmament, Whereon a sapphire throne inlaid with pure ^. Amber and colors of the showery arch. S^ He in celestial panoply all armed 780 '' ' Of radiant Urim, work divinely wrought, '^ Ascended ; at his right hand Victory S» Sat eagle-Avinged ; beside him hung his bow And quiver with three-bolted thunder stored, And from about him fierce efilision rolled 766 Of smoke and bickering flame and sparkles dire : Attended with ten thousand thousand saints He onward came, far off his coming shone ; And twenty thousand (I their number heard) Chariots of God, half on each hand, were seen. 770 He on the wings of cherub rode sublime On the crystalline sky, in sapphire throned, Illustrious far and wide, but by his own . ■■ . ^-- Fii-st seen ; them unexpected joy surprised -y _ When the great ensign of Messiah blazed, "^1?$^ ^ ^-^ Aloft by angels borne, his sign in Heaven; \^ S;^ Under whose conduct Michael soon reduced His army, circumfi.ised on either wing. Under their Head embodied all in one. Before him power divine his way prepared ; \V;C "iQl.rndinnt Urim. See Exodus 771. on the toings of cherub. xxviii. 29. 30. See Psalm xviii. 10. 766. bickering^ struggling ; quiv- 773. Illustrious., shining bright' ering. ly. ^ 767. te7i thousand thousand 776. his sign in Heaven See saints. See ReTelation v. 11. Matthew xxiv. 30. 769. tiventy thousand. " The 777. reduced., brought or ral- chariots of God are twenty thou- lied, sand, even thousands of angels." psalm Jxviii. 17. 192 PARADISE LOST. [Book V At his command the uprooted hills retired _^^ Each to his place ; they heard his voice and went ■ ^-it<^ * Obsequious ; Heaven his wonted face renewed, And with fresh flowerets hill and valley smiled. This saw his hapless foes, but stood obdured, And to rebellious fight rallied their pov/ere Insensate, hope conceiving from despair. In heavenly spirits could such pervcrseness dwell, But to convince the proud Avhat signs avail, Or wonders move the obdurate to relent ? They, hardened more by what might most reclaim, Grieving to see his glory, at the sight Took envy ; and, aspiring to his height, Stood re-embattled fierce, by force or fi^aud Weening to prosper and at length prevail Against God and Messiah, or to fall In universal ruin last ; and now To final battle drcAv, disdaining flight Or faint retreat ; when the great Son of God To all his host on either hand thus spake : 800 " ' Stand still In bright array, ye Saints ; here _^ stand, ' ' <,^ Ye Angels armed, this day from battle rest ! .^ ^^ Faithful hath been your warfare and of God .Accepted, fearless In his righteous cause ; And cis ye have received, so have ye done 805 ' '>i Invincibly ; but of this cursed crew The punishment to other hand belongs ; Vengeance Is his, or whose he sole appoints : Number to this day's work is not ordained, Nor multitude ; stand only and behold 810 783. A(5, its. written, Vengeance is mine; I 785. obrjured^ hardened. will repay, saith the Lord.' 794. fraud, stratagem; arti- Romans xii. 19. — wAo.fe, belongs Gee. ' to him whom. 795. Weening. See line 86. 81U. See Exodus xiv. 13. 808. Vengeance is his. " It is Book VI.] PARADISE LOST. 193 God's indignation on these godless poured By me ; not you, but me they have despised Yet envied ; against me is all their rage, Because the Father, to whom in Heaven supreme Kingdom, and power, and glory appertains, 815 Hath honored me according to his will. Therefore to me their doom he hath assigned ; That they may have their wish, to try with me In battle which the stronger proves ; they all, Or I alone against them ; since by strength 820 They measure all, of other excellence Not emulous, nor care Avho them excels ; Nor other strife Avith them do I vouchsafe.' " So spake the Son, and into terror changed His countenance, too severe to be beheld 825 And full of wrath bent on his enemies. At once the Four spread out their starry wings With dreadful shade contiguous, and the orbs Of his fierce chariot rolled, as with the sound Of torrent floods or of a numerous liost. 830 He on his impious foes right onward drove. Gloomy as night ; under his burning wheels The steadfast empyrean shook throughout. All but the throne itself of God. Full soon Among them he arrived, in his right hand 836 Grasping ten thousand thunders, which he sent Before him, such as in their souls infixed Plagues; they, astonished, all resistance lost. All courage ; down their idle weapons dropped ; O'er shields and helms and helmed heads he rode &iO (>f thrones, and mighty seraphim prostrate. That wished the mountains now might be again 815. See Matt. vi. 13. 842. That wishpcl. " They shall 827. the Four. See line 752. say to the mountains, Cover ua* 828. contiguous, so near as to and to the hills, Fall on ua " peet. Hosea x 8 13 194 PARADISE LOST. [Book VI Thrown on them as a shelter from his ire. Nor less on either side tempestuous fell His arrows from the fourfold- vis aged Four Distinct with eyes, and from the living wheels Distinct alike with multitude of eyes ; One spirit In them ruled, and every eye Glared lightning and shot forth pernicious fire Among the accursed, that withered all their strength And of their wonted vigor left them drained, 851 ^^^ ^i Exhausted, spiritless, afflicted, fallen. ""^^^^^g^ Yet half his strength he put not forth, but checked 5!**^ His thunder in mid volley ; for he meant ""^^ Not to destroy, but root them out of Heaven. 85fi ^S The overthrown, he raised, and as a herd Of goats or timorous flock together thronged Drove them before him thunder-struck, pursued With terrors and with furies to the bounds And crystal wall of Heaven, which opening wide 890 Rolled inward, and a spacious gap disclosed Into the wasteful deep : the monstrous sight Struck them with horror backward, but fur woree Urged them behind ; headlong themselves they threw Down from the verge of Heaven ; eternal wrath 865 Burned after them to the bottomless pit. •-: _^_^ " Hell heard the unsufTerable noise. Hell saw Heaven ruining from Heaven, and would have fled Affrighted ; but strict Fate had cast too deep Her dark foundations, and too fast had bound. Nine days they fell ; confounded Chaos roared, And felt tenfold confusion in their fall Through his wild anarchy, so huge a rout Encumbered him with ruin: Hell at last 846. Distinct, spotted ; marked, wheels, were full of eyes rouud — with eyes. " And their whole about." Ezekiel x. 12. body, and their backs, aud their 868. ruining, failiug with ruin hands, and their wings, and the 867-877. See I. 4i-53. BookVi.j paradise lost. 196 Yawning received tlieni whole, and on them closed ; Hell, their fit habitation, fraught with fire 876 Unquenchable, the house of woe and pain. Disburdened Heaven rejoiced, and soon repaired Her mural breach, returning whence it rolled. " Sole victor, from the expulsion of his foes 880 Messiah his triumphal chariot turned : To meet him all his saints, who silent stood Eye-Avitnesses of his almighty acts, With jubilee advanced; and as they went. Shaded with branching palm, each Order^bright 88P Sung triumph, and him sung victorious King, Son, Heir, and Lord, to him dominion given, Worthiest to reign : he celebrated rode Triumphant through mid Heaven into the courts And temple of his mighty Father throned 890 On high ; who into glory him received, Where now he sits at the right hand of bliss. "Thus, measuring things in Heaven by things on Earth, At thy request and that thou raay'st beware By what is past, to thee I have revealed ^ 895 What might have else to human race been hid ; The discord Avhich befel, and war in Heaven Among the angelic powers, and the deep fall Of those too high aspiring, who rebelled With Satan ; he who envies now thy state, Who now is plotting how he may seduce Thee also from obedience, that with him Bereaved of happiness thou may'st partake His punishment, eternal misery : 888. celebrated, attended in 900. he, him. procession. 892. at the right hand. See Hebrews i. 3. I 'J 6 PARADISE L OS T. [Book VI Whicli would be all his solace and revenge, 905 As a despite done against the Most High, Thee once to gain companion of his woe. But listen not to his temptations ; warn Thy weaker ; let it profit thee to have heard, By terrible example, the reward 910 Of disobedience ; firm they might have stood, Yet fell. Remember, and fear to transgress." 909. Thy toeaker, " Giving weaker vessel." 1 Peter iii. 7. kctnor unto the wife, as unto the BOOK vn. THE ARGU31ENT. Raphael, at the request of Adam, relates how and wherefore thll world was first created ; that God, after the expelling of Satan and his angels ovit of Ileaven, declared his pleasure to create another world, and other creatures to dwell therein ; sends his Son with glory and attendance of angels to perform the work of creation in six days : the angels celebrate with hymns the performance there- of, and his reascension into Ileaven. Dp:scend from Heaven, Urania (by that name If rightly thou art called), whose voice divine Following, above the Olympian hill I soar, Above the flight of Pegasean wing ! The meaning, not the name, I call : for thou 6 Nor of the Mnses nine, nor on the top Of old Olympus dwell'st ; but, heavenly born, Before the hills appeared or fountain flowed. Thou with eternal Wisdom didst converse. Wisdom thy sister, and with her didst play 10 1. Urania was one of the nine ply the name, to signify the Muses ; she presided over Astron- source of the inspiration which T omy, the meaning of that name seek. being heavenly. Milton applies 8. Before the hills appeared or It to the heavenly ]\Iicse whom he fountain floxoed. " When there Lad invoked at first. See I. 6. were no depths, I (Wisdom) was 3. the Olympian hill, Mount brought forth ; when there were Olympus, the seat of the gods. no fountains abounding with 4. Pegasean iving. The winged water. Before the mountains horse Pegasus was sail to have were settled, before the hills was ascended to the seat of the im- I brought forth." Proverbs viii. mortals. 24. 25. 5. The meaning, not the name 9. converse, associate. 1 call. See lino 1. I invoke not 10. ivith her didst play.^ _ " I any heathen muse, whose high- was daily his delight, rejoicing est flight could never reach the always before him." Proverbs aeaven of heavens, though I ap- viii. 30. 198 PARADISE LOST. [Book VII In presence of the almighty Father, pleased With thy celestial song. Up led by thee Into the heaven of heavens I have presumed, An earthly guest, and drawn empyreal air, Thy tempering ; with like safety guided down liS Return me to my native element ; Lest from this flying steed unreined, as once Bellerophon (though from a lower clime), Dismounted on the Aleian field I ftill, Erroneous there to wander and forlorn. 20 Half yet remains unsung, but narrower bound Within the visible diurnal sphere ; Standing on earth, not rapt above the pole, More safe I sing with mortal voice, unchanged To hoarse or mute, though fallen on evil days, 35 On evil days though fallen, and evil tongues. In darkness, and Avith dangers compassed round, And solitude ; yet not alone, while thou Visit'st my slumbers nightly or when morn Purples the east. Still govern thou my song, 30 Urania, and fit audience find though few : But drive far off the barbarous dissonance 15. Thy tempering, tempered toration of Charles II. to the by thee. English throne in 1660. This 18-20. Bellerophon conquered event had destroyed Milton's the monster Ohimaera by the aid hopes for the establishment of a of Pegasus. Elated by his sue- republican form of government in cess, he attempted, it is said, to England, and for a time his life fly up into heaven on his winged was in danger, as he had been a Bteed. Jupiter, to punish his friend and adherent of Cromwell presumption, sent a gadfly to who had usurped the govem- sting Pegasus, and Bellerophon ment. His blindness was now was thrown to the earth. The total, and he sought safety in a fall made him both lame and retired life, blind, and he wandered discon- 29. nightly. See III. 29-32. Bolate over the Aleian fields, 30. govern, influence ; direct, avoiding the abodes of men. — 31. fit audience find, though erroneous, roving ; wandering. feiv. The number of those who 21. Half, half of the poem. in such evil days would listen to 23. rapt, caught up ; borne the song of the heavenly Muse aYfay. ^a^s small, though some feio still 26-28. Milton here refers to the remained who were fit to hear times in which he lived. This her voice. Book was written after the Res- Book VII.] PARADIl^E LOST. 199 Of Bacchus and Lis revellers, the race Of that wild rout that tore the Thracian bard In Rhodope-, where woods and rocks had ears 85 To rapture, till the savage clamor drowned Both harp and voice ; nor could the Muse defend Her son. So fail not thou who thee implores ; For thou art heavenly, she an empty dream. Say, goddess, what ensued when Raphael, «o The affable Aix'hangel, had forewarned Adam by dire example to beware Apostasy, by what befell in Heaven To those apostates, lest the like befall In Paradise to Adam or his race 4fi (Charged not to touch the interdicted tree) If they transgress, and slight that sole command, So easily obeyed, amid the choice Of all tastes else to please their appetite. Though wandering. He with his consorted Eve 50 The story heard attentive, and was filled With admiration and deep muse, to hear Of thino;s so hi^h and stranire, thinn;s to their thought So unimaginable as hate in Heaven, And war so near the peace of God in bliss 55 With such confusion ; but the evil soon 33-38. Orpheus, the Thracian his head into the llebrus, a rivet bard, was the son of Calliope, the which descended from Mount Muse who presided over epic Rlioilope to theses.. Milton, un- poetry. As he played upon the der these figures, may be describ- lyre given him by Apollo, noth- ing the dissolute coui-t of Charles ing could withstand the charm II., among whose followers such of his music. Not only men, but strains as his would stir up only also beasts, and even icootJs and cont>^mpt and ridicule. rocks were moved to f-zpture. 38. loho, him who. Having lost his wife Eurydice, he 41 affable. See V. 221. refused to be consoled. TheThra- 42. if icare. beware of. clan women, in revenge for the 46. interdicted., forbidden. Sm contempt with which he treated Genesis ii. IG, 17. See I. 2. them, and excited by the rites of 50. wandering., not fixed ; seek Bacchus, droicned b.ilk harp and ing variety. voice by their samite clanK^r, tore 52. admiration, wonder. — bim limb from limb, and threw viuse, meditation ; musing. 200 PARADISE LOST. [Book Vn. Driven back redounded as a flood on those From whom it sprung, impossible to mix With blessedness. Whence Adam soon repealed The doubts that In his heart arose ; and now 6C Led on, yet sinless, with desire to know What nearer might concern hi in ; how this world Of heaven and earth conspicuous first began, When and whereof created, for what cause. What within Eden or Avithout was done 66 Before his memory ; as one whose drought Yet scarce allayed still eyes the current stream Whose liquid murmur heard new thirst excites, Proceeded thus to ask his heavenly guest : , " Great things, and full of wonder in our ears, 70 Far differing from this world, thou hast revealed, Divine interpreter, by favor sent Down from the empyrean to forewarn Us timely of what might else have been our loss, 74 Unknown, which human knowledge could not reach : For which to the Infinitely Good we owe Immortal thanks, and his admonishment Receive, with solemn purpose to observe Immutably his sovran will, the end Of what Ave are. But since thou hast vouchsafed 80 Gently for our instruction to Impart Things above earthly thought, which yet concerned Our knowing as to highest wisdom seemed, Deign to descend now lower, and relate What may no less perhaps avail us known ; 8b 57- redounJed, flowed or rushed folds or makes ktiown. — by favor back. sent. See V. 219-245. 69. repealed, recalled ; sup- 74. timely, in time. Dressed. 79. the end o/ivhat we are, thi 63. conspicuous, open to the object of our being, eight. 81. Gently, courteously. 67. current, running. 83. seemed, seemed good. 72. interpreter, one who un- 85. known, when it is known. Book VII.] PARADISE LOST. 201 How fiist began tills heaven, which we behold Distant so high, Avith moving fires adorned Innumerable, and this which yields or fills All space, the ambient air wide interfused Embracing round this florid earth ; what cause 30 Moved the Creator, in his holy rest Through all eternity, so late to build In Chaos, and the work begun how soon Absolved ; if unforbid thou may'st unfold What we not to explore the secrets ask 96 Of his eternal empire, but the more To magnify his works the more we know. And the great light of day yet wants to run Much of his race though steep ; suspense in heaven Held by thy voice, thy potent voice, he hears, lOO And longer will delay to hear thee tell His generation, and the rising birth Of Nature from the unapparent deep : Or if the star of evening and the moon Haste to thy audience, night with her will bring 105 Silence, and sleep listening to thee will watch ; Or we can bid his absence, till thy song End, and dismiss thee ere the morning shine." Thus Adam his illustrious guest besought ; And thus the godlike angel answered mild : no " This also thy request, with caution asked, Obtain ; though to recount almighty works What words or tongue of seraph can suffice. 89. interfused^ poured or 99. thorigh steep, though de spread between. scending to the horizon. 90. foriil, covered with flow- 103. unapparent^ invir.ible, foi ers ; blooming. " darkness was upon the fsice of 94. Absolved, finished. the deep." See Genesis i. 2. 95. not to exi'lore, not niti-Amng 105. to thy audience, to hear ^r seeking to explore. thoe. 96. wants^ has left. B02 PARADISE LOST. [Book Vtt Or heart of man suffice to comiirehend ? Tet what thou canst attain, which best may serve To glorify the Maker and infer 116 Thee also happier, shall not be withheld Thy hearing ; such commission from above I have received, to answer thy desire Of knowledge within bounds ; beyond abstain 120 To ask, nor let thine own inventions hope Things not revealed, which the invisible King, Only omniscient, hath suppressed in night, To none communicable in Earth or Heaven ; Enough is left besides to search and know. 125 But knowledge is as food, and needs no less Her temperance over appetite, to know In measure what the mind may well contain ; Oppresses else with surfeit, and soon turns Wisdom to folly, as nourishment to wind. 130 " Know then, that after Lucifer from Heaven (So call him, brighter once amidst the host Of angels than that star the stars among) Fell with his flaming legions through the deep Into his place, and the great Son returned 135 Victorious with his saints, the omnipotent Eternal Father from his throne beheld Their multitude, and to his Son thus spake : " ' At least our envious foe hath fiiiled, who thought All like himself rebellious, by whose aid 140 This inaccessible high strength, the seat 114. suffice, to comprtlfnU. 123. halk suppressed. " Th« " Such kuowledge is too wonder- secret things belong unto the ful for me; it is high, I cannot Lord our God." Deuteronomy attain unto it." Psalm cxxxix. 6. xxix. 29. IIG. ?■»/??■, make, or make by 127. tf.mperance, restraint, consequence. lo3. that star, the morningf 117. withhflrf, withheld from. star, called Lucifer, the light^ 121. To «5t. from asking. — bringer. See V. 70S. hope, hope to nach or diiscover. BookYII.] paradise lost. 203 Of Deity supreme, us dispossessed, He trusted to have seized, and into fraud Drew many, whom their place knows here no more ; Yet far the greater part have kept, I see, 145 Their station ; Heaven yet populous retains Number sufficient to possess her realms Though wide, and this high temple to frequent With ministeries due and solemn rites : But lest his heart exalt him in the harm 150 Already done, to have dispeopled Heaven, My damage fondly deemed, I can repair That detriment, if such it be to lose Self-lost, and in a moment Avill create ^ Another world, out of one man a race 156 Of men innumerable, there to dwell, Not here, till by degrees of merit raised They open to themselves at length the way Up hither, under long obedience tried, And Earth be changed to Heaven, and Heaven to Earth, 160 One kingdom, joy and union without end. Meanwhile inhabit lax, ye powers of Heaven, And thou my Word, begotten Son, by thee This I perform ; speak thou, and be it done : My overshadowing Sj)irit and might with thee 165 I send along ; ride forth, and bid the deep Within appointed bounds be heaven and earth — Boundless the deep, because I am who fill Infinitude, nor vacuous the space. 142 «5 t/f.^ossesstd, we having 149. w/«f5/ert>5, ministries, been dispossessed. This is a 152. Mij dnnim^e fondly d-eem- Latiuism The objective case is f«/, vainly considered as iiyurj made absolute inst^ead of the done to me. nominative, which is more com- 162. inhabit 'ax, dwell at large, mon in English. with ample room. liS. fraud, treachery; rebel- 1G8. lam. Sw Exodus iii. 14 lion. 169. Another construction di- 144. " Neither shall his place vides the sentence at Infinitude, tcow him any more." Job vii putting a comma after .varf, and \0. a semicolon after not, line 172. 204 PARADISE LOST. [Book VII Though I uncircumscribed myself retire, 170 And put not forth my goodness which is free To act or not, necessity and chance Approach not me, and what I will is fate.' " So spake the Almighty, and to what he spake His Word, the filial Godhead, gave effect. 175 Immediate are the acts of God, more swift Than time or motion, but to human ears Cannot without process of si^eech be told, So told as earthly notion can receive. Great triumph and rejoicing was in Heaven, 180 When such was heard declared the Almighty's will ; Glory they sung to the Most High, good-will To future men, and in their dwellings peace ; Glory to him whose just avenging ire Had driven out the ungodly from his sight 185 And the habitations of the just ; to him Glory and praise, whose wisdom had ordained Good out of evil to create, instead Of spirits malign a better race to bring Into their vacant room, and thence diffuse 19C His good to worlds and ages infinite. " So sang the Hierarchies. Meanwhile the Son On his great expedition now appeared. Girt with omnipotence, with radiance crowned Of majesty divine, sapience and love 195 Immense, and all his Father in him shone. About his chariot numberless were poured Cherub and Seraph, Potentates and Thrones, And Virtues, winged spirits, and chariots winged 170. myself retire^ withdraw highest, and on earth peace, good myself. will toward men." Luke ii. 14 17G. Immediate. '' lie spake, 192. Hierarchies, orders of an- md it was done ; he command- geln. ed, and it stood fast." Psalm 195. sapience, wisdom, xxxiii. 9. 199 Virtues, one of the crderi 182, 183. " Glory to God in the of celestial beings. See V. 601. Bookvil] paradise lost. 205 From the armory of God, where stand of old 300 Myriads between two brazen mountains lodged, Against a solemn day harnessed at hand, Celestial equipage ; and now came forth Spontaneous, for within them spirit lived. Attendant on their Lord : Heaven opened wide 20fi Her ever-during gates, harmonious sound On golden hinges moving, to let forth The King of glory, in his powerful Word And Spirit coming to create new worlds. On heavenly ground they stood, and from the shoi-e They viewed the vast immeasurable abyss 211 Outrageous as a sea, dark, wasteful, wild, Up from the bottom turned by furious winds And surging waves, as mountains, to assault 214 Heaven's height, and with the centre mix the pole. " ' Silence, ye troubled waves, and thou deep, peace ! ' Said then the omnific Word ; ' your discord end ! ' Nor stayed, but, on the wings of cherubim Uplifted, in paternal glory rode Far into Chaos and the world unborn ; 220 For Chaos heard his voice. Him all his train Followed in bright procession, to behold Creation and the wonders of his might. Then stayed the fervid wheels, and in his hand He took the golden compasses, prepared 225 In God's eternal store, to circumscribe 20\. brazen movntains. "And 208. The Kins; of glory. See I turned, and lifted up mine eyes, Psalm xxiv. 7-10. and looked, and behold, there 214. It is suppcsed that the came four chariots out from be- poet may hare dictated In in- tween two mountains ; and the ste^A oi And . — crs, like. mountains were mountains of 217. omnijic^ all-making, krass." Zechariah Ti. 1. 221. /(^arYliose seed is in hei-self upon the earth.' He scarce had said, when the bare earth, till then Desert and bare, unsightly, unadorned. Brought forth the tender grass, whose verdure clad Her universal face with pleasant green ; 316 Then herbs of every leaf, that sudden flowered Opening their various colors, and made gay Her bosom smelling sweet ; and these scarce blown. Forth flourished thick the clustering vine, forth crept The swelling gourd, up stood the corny reed 321 Embattled in her field, and the humble shrub, And bush with frizzled hair implicit : last Rose as in dance the stately trees, and spread Their branches hung with copious fruit, or gemmed Their blossoms. AVith high woods the hills were croAvned, 326 With tufts the valleys and each fountain side. With borders long the rivers ; that Earth now Seemed like to Heaven, a seat where gods might dwell, Or wander with delight, and love to haunt 33C Her sacred shades : though God had yet not rained Upon the earth, and man to till the ground None was ; but from the earth a dewy mist Went up and watered all the ground, and each 307. earth, he called earth. 322. Embattled, as in order of 309-312. Sec Genesis i. 11, 12. battle. 314. Desert, uncultivatea. 32.3 implicit, entangled. 821. the corny reed, the jointed 325. g-mived. put forth, stem of corn (gi-aiu). 328. thai, so that. 331-337 See Genesis ii. 5, 6 14 210 PARADISE LOS 7 [Book VII Plant of tlie field, which ere it was in the earth 836 God made, and every herb before it grew On the green stem. God saw that it was good : So even and morn recorded the third day. " Again the Ahiiighty spake : — ' Let there be lights High in the expanse of heaven, to divide 340 The day from night ; and let them be for signs, For seasons, and for days, and circling years ; And let them be for lights, as I ordain Their office in the firmament of heaven, To give light on the earth ; ' and it was so. 345 And God made tv/o great lights, great for their use To man, the greater to have rule by day. The less by night, altern ; and made the stars, And set them in the firmament of heaven To illuminate the earth, and rule the day 350 In their vicissitude, and rule the night, And light from darkness to divide. God saw, Surveying his great work, that it was good : For of celestial bodies first the sun A mighty sphere he framed, unlightsome first, 355 Though of ethereal mould ; then formed the moon Globose, and every magnitude of stars, And sowed with sf trs the heaven thick as a field. Of light by far thi greater part he took, Transplanted from her cloudy shrine, and placed 360 In the sun's orb, made porous to receive And drink the liquid light, firm to retain Her gathered beams, great palace now of light. Ulther, as to their fountain, other stars 339-353 See Genesis i. 14:-18. 360. her cloudy shrine. Sec 348. altern^ alternate. line 248. 855 unlightsome, wanting 363. Her refers' to llg\t ^ght. 864. other stais, the planets, 867. Globose, spherical. which shine by light reflected from the sun. Book VII.] PARADISE LOST. 211 Repairing in their golden urns draw light, 86fl And hence the morning planet gilds her horns : By tincture or reflection they augment Their small peculiar, though, from hmnan sight So far remote, Avith diminution seen. First in his east the glorious lamp was seen, 87, as the drag horse of the Nile. on and other fabulous serpents. 476. t/«o5P, insects. — fans, not — « (We (^/ is here a verb. wings, because not feathered. 485. The parsimonious emmet. 477. lineaments, outlines of the See Proverbs vi. 6-8. shape, as representing the body. 493. gav'st them names. See fcee V. 278. Genesis ii. 19, 20. 478. liveries, forms of dress or 495. subtlest beast. " Now the farb. — decked, if connected with serpent ivas more subtle than any waved, agrees with tliose. beast of the field which the liOrd 480. these. See worm, in line had made." Genesis ill 1. *76. 216 PARADISE LOST. [Book VU Of Luge extent sometimes, with brazen eyes And hairy mane terrific, though to thee Not noxious, but obedient at thy call. " Now heaven in all her glory shone, and rolled Her motions, as the great first Mover's hand 500 First wheeled their course ; earth In her rich attire Consummate lovely smiled ; air, water, earth. By fowl, fish, beast, was flown, was swum, waa walked Frequent : and of the sixth day yet remained. There wanted yet the master work, the end 505 Of all yet done ; a creature who, not prone And brute as other creatures but endued With sanctity of reason, might erect His stature, and upright with front serene Govern the rest, self-knowing, and from thence 510 Magnanimous to correspond Avith Heaven, But grateftd to acknowledge whence his good Descends, thither with heart and voice and eyes Directed in d<^votion, to adore And Avorship God supreme, who made him chief Of all his works : therefore the omnipotent 616 Eternal Father (for where is not he Present ?) thus to his Son audibly spake : " ' Let us make now Man in our Image, Man II our similitude, and let them rule 520 Over the fish and fowl of scd, and air, Beast of the field, and over all the earth. And every creeping thing that creeps the ground.* This said, he formed thee, Adam, thee, O Man, Dust of the ground, and in thy nostrils breathed 525 504. Frequent, crowded ; 511. Mnsimnlmous, sufficient' thronged. ly grca t of mind. 606. prone, with the face down- 519-534. See Genesi.s i. 20-28. ^ard. 625. Dust of the ground. "And BookVIL] paradise lost. 217 The breath of Hfe ; in his own Image he Created thee, In the image of God Express, and thou becam'st a living soul. Male he created thee, but thy consort Female, for race ; then blessed mankind, and said, ' Be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth ; 531 Subdue it, and throughout dominion hold Over fish of the sea, and fowl of the air, And every living thing that moves on the earth.* Wherever thus created, for no place 535 Is yet distinct by name, thence, as thou know'st, He brought thee into this delicious grove. This garden, planted with the trees of God, Delectable both to behold and taste ; And freely all their pleasant fruit for food 54D Gave thee ; all sorts are here that all the earth yields, Variety without end ; but of the tree, Which tasted works knowledge of good and evil, Thou may'st not ; in the day thou eat'st, thou diest ; Death is the penalty imposed ; beware, 545 And govern well thy appetite, lest Sin Surprise thee, and her black attendant Death. " Here finished he, and all that he had made Viewed, and behold, all was entirely good : So even and morn accomplished the sixth day ; 560 Yet not till the Creator from his work Desisting, though unwearied, up returned. Up to the heaven of heavens, his high abode, the Lord God formed man of the 53b. This garden. See Genesis dust of the ground, and breathed ii. 8. into his nostrils the breath of 539. Delectable " Every tree life ; and man became a living that is pleasant to the sight, and soul." Genesis ii. 7. good for food." Genesis ii. 9. 528. £'.r;'r^s. put him into the garden of Eden, alty. to drees it and to keep it " Gen ii. 16. Book VIII.] PARADISE LOST. 283 Returned, and gi-acious purpose thus renewed : Not only these lair bounse, like tlie 39d. Converse, associate Boon y III.] PARADISE L OS T. 235 A nice and subtle happiness I see Thou to thyself proposest in the choice 100 Of thy associates, Adam, and wilt taste No pleasure, though in pleasure, solitary. What think'st thou then of me, and this my state ? Seem I to thee sufficiently possessed Of happiness, or not ? Avho am alone *oe From all eternity, for none I kno^Y Second to me or like, equal much less. How have I then with whom to hold converse, Save with the creatures which I made, and those To me inferior, infinite descents ^ 410 Beneath what other creatures are to thee ? ' " He ceased ; I lowly answered : ' To attain The height and depth of thy eternal ways All human thoughts com^ short, Supreme of things ! Thou in thyself art perfect, and in thee 415 Is no deficience found ; not so is nian. But in degree, the cause of his desire By convei-sation with his like to help Or solace his defects. No need that thou Shouldst propagate, already infinite, 420 And through all numbers absolute though one ; But man by number is to manifest His single Imperfection, and bcget^ Like of his like, his image multiplied, In unity defective, which requires 425 Collateral love and dearest amity. 413^15 "0 the depth of the 421. through all numbers abso- rich Jboth of the wisaom and lute. This is a Lahn-sm, mean- 4A7 )n decree, in his degree ; fection while yiugle. comparltivel^.-Wcau.., which „^ 125. ^ i.t^ou^l/ defective, deft is the cause. 118. Conj-e. 590, 408, 43i is the cause. 118. Coiu-ersaAion. Se* Unes cieut 11 hut onu. 236 PARADISE LOST. [Book VIU Thou in thy secrecy although alone, Best with thyself accompanied, seek'st not Social communication, yet, so pleased, Canst raise thy creatures to what height thou wilt 433 Of union or communion, deified , I by conversing cannot these erect From prone, nor in their ways complacence find.' Thus I emboldened spake, and freedom used Permissive, and acceptance found, which gained 435 This answer from the gracious voice divine : " ' Thus far to try thee, Adam, I was pleased, And find thee knowing not of beasts alone. Which thou hast rightly named, but of thyself, Expressing well the spirit within thee free, 440 My image, not imparted to the brute, Whose fellowship therefore unmeet for thee Good reason was thou freely shouldst dislike ; And be so minded still. I, ere thou spak'st, Knew it not good for man to be alone, 445 And no such company as then thou saw'st Intended thee, for trial only brought, To see how thou couldst judge of fit and meet. What next I bring shall please thee, be assured, Thy likeness, thy fit help, thy other self, 450 Thy wish exactly to thy heart's desire.' " He ended, or I heard no more ; for now My earthly by his heavenly overpowered. Which it had long stood under, strained to the height In that celestial colloquy sublime, 455 ill. Secrecy. See I. 6. 435. Permissive., granted ; al- 429. -so pleased., if thou art so lowed, pleased. 445. " And the Lord God said, 432. these. See lines 369-375. It is not good that man slioulcj - erfct, make upright. be alone." Genesis ii. 18. 433. From prone., from being 454. strained. See line 3S7 prone, with the head or face downwards. Book YIIL] PARADISE LOST. 237 As with an object that excels the sense Dazzled and spent sunk down, and sought repair Of sleep, which instantly fell on me, called By nature as in aid, and closed mine eyes. Mine eyes he closed, but open left the cell 46C Of fancy, my internal sight, by which Abstract as in a trance methought I saw, Though sleeping, where I lay, and saw the shape Still glorious before whom awake I stood ; Who stooping opened my left side, and took i66 From thence a rib, Avith cordial spirits warm, And life-blood streaming fresh ; wide was the wound, But suddenly with flesh filled up and healed. The rib he formed and fashioned with his hands ; Under his forming hands a creature grew, 470 Manlike, but different sex, so lovely fair That what seemed fair in all the world seemed now Mean, or in her summed up, in her contained, And in her looks, Avhich from that time infused Sweetness into my heart unfelt before, 475 And into all things from her air inspired The spirit of love and amorous delight. She disappeared, and left me dark ; I waked To find her, or forever to deplore Her loss, and other pleasures all abjure : 480 When, out of hope, behold her not f^ir off. Such as I saAv her In my dream, adorned With what all Earth or Heaven could bestow To make her amiable. On she came. Led by her heavenly Maker, though unseen, 486 And guided by his voice, nor uninformed Of nuptial sanctity and marriage rites : 461. fancy, my internal sight 466. cordial^ from the heart. Compare V. 100-111. 481. out of hope, beyond my 482. Abstract, drawn away ; out hope ; more than I hoped of myself. — Saw, verb neuter. 484. amiable^ lovely. 4C5-471 SeeGenesisu. 21, 22. 238 PARADISE LOST. [Book VIH Grace was in all her steps, heaven in her eye, In every gesture dignity and love. I overjoyed could not forbear aloud : 49C " ' This turn hath made amends ; thou hast fulfilled Thy words, Creator bounteous and benign, Giver of all things fair, but fairest this Of all thy gifts, nor enviest. I now see Bone of my bone, flesh of my flesh, myself 495 Before me ; AVoman is her name, of man Extracted : for this cause he shall forego Father and mother, and to his Avife adhere ; And they shall be one flesh, one heart, one soul.' " She heard me thiis, and though divinely brought, Yet innocence and virgin modesty, 601 Her virtue and the conscience of her worth. That would be wooed and not unsought be won, Not obvious, not obtrusive, but retired The more desirable ; or, to say all, 505 Nature herself, though pure of sinful thought, Wrouglit in her so, that seeing me she turned ; I followed her, she what was honor knew, And with obsequious majesty approved My pleaded reason. To the nuptial bower 510 I led her blushing like the morn : all heaven And happy constellations on that hour Shed their selcctest influence ; the earth Gave sign of gratulation, and each hill ; Joyous the birds ; fresh gales and gentle airs 515 Whispered it to the woods, and from their wings Flung rose, flung odors from the spicy shrub, 490. aloud, uttering aloud. 502. conscience, consciousnesd 494. nor enviest, nor dost thou as in Hebrews x. 2, " should have Jrithhold out of ill-will. had no more conscience of sins." 495-499. See Genesis ii. 23, 24. 504. retired, when retired. 501. For the verb, see line 507. BookVJII.] paradise LOST. 239 Disporting till the amorous bird of night Sung spousal, and bid haste the evening star On his hill top to light the bridal lamp. 520 ''Thus have I told thee all my state, and brought My story to the sum of earthly bliss. Which I enjoy, and must confess to find In all things else delight indeed, but such As, used or not, Avorks in the mind no change, 525 Nor vehement desire ; these delicacies I mean of taste, sight, smell, herbs, fruits, and flowers, Walks, and the melody of birds : but here, Far otherwise, transported I behold, Transported touch ;£bere passion first I felt, 530 Commotion strange, in all enjoyments else Superior and unmoved, here only weak Against the charm of beauty's powerful glance. Or nature failed in me, and left some part Not proof enough such object to sustain, 536 Or from my side subducting took perhaps More than enough ; at least on her bestowed Too much of ornament, in outward show Elaborate, of inward less exact. For well I understand in the prime end 540 Of nature her the inferior, in the mind And inward faculties which most excel, In outward also her resembling less His image Avho made both, and less expressing The character of that dominion given 545 O'er other creatures ; yet Avhen I approach Her loveliness, so absolute she seems And in herself complete, so well to know Her own, that what slie wills to do or say Seems wisest, v'rtuousest, discreetest, best : 56C 534. Or, either 547. absolute^ perfect. 240 PARADISE LOST. [Book VIII All higher knowledge in her presence falls Degraded ; wisdom in discourse with her Loses discountenanced, and like folly shows ; Authority and reason on her wait, As one intended first, not after made Mfi Occasionally ; and, to consummate all, Greatness of mind and nobleness their seat Build in her loveliest, and create an awe About her, as a guard angelic placed." To whom the angel with contracted brow r 500 " Accuse not nature, she hath done her part ; Do thou but thine, and be not diffident Of wisdom ; she deserts thee not, if thou Dismiss not her when most thou need'st her nigh, By attributing overmuch to tilings 565 Less excellent, as thou thyself perceiv'st. For what admir'st thou, what transports thee so ? An outside, fair no doubt, and worthy well Thy cherishing, thy honoring, and thy love, Not thy subjection : A veigh wi^i her thyself, 670 Then value. Oft-times nothing profits more Than self-esteem, grounded on just and right Well managed ; of that skill the more thou know'st, The more she will acknowledge thee her head. And to realities yield all her shows : 575 Made so adorn for thy delight the more, So awful, that Avith honor thou may'st love Thy mate, who sees when thou art seen least wise. But if the sense of touch, whereby mankind Is propagated, seem such dear delight 580 552. Degraded, cast down from 562. diffident, distrustful. Its rank. 568. In some copies, we find an 553. di&coimtenanced, abashed ; interrogation mark instead of a put out of countenance. — shows, comma after outside. seems. 576. adorn, adorned. 556. Orxasionally, to meet an 578. sees, perceives, occasion or want. Book VIII.] PARADISE LOST. 241 Beyond all other, think the same vouchsafed To cattle and each beiist ; which would not be To them made common and divulged, if aught Therein enjoyed were worthy to subdue The soul of man, or passion in him move, 68S What higher in her society thou find'st Attractive, human, rational, love still ; In loving thou dost well, in passion not, Wherein true love consists not ; love refines The thoughts, and heart enlarges, hath his seat 6S0 In reason, and is judicious, is the scale By which to heavenly love thou may'st ascend, Not sunk in carnal pleasure ; for which cause Among the beasts no mate for thee was found." To whom thus, half abashed, Adam replied : 695 " Neither her outside formed so fair, nor aught In procreation common to all kinds (Though higher of the genial bed by far And with mysterious reverence I deem) So much delights me, as those graceful acts, 600 Those thousand decencies that daily flow From all her words and actions, mixed with love And sweet compliance, which declare unfeigned Union of mind, or in us both one soul ; Harmony to behold in wedded pair 605 More grateful than harmonious sound to the ear. Yet these subject not ; I to thee disclose What inward thence I feel, not therefore foiled, Who meet with various objects from the sense Variously representing, yet still free 610 'Approve the best, and follow what I approve. To love thou blam'st me not, for love thou say'st 601. decencies^ becoming waj-s. senting, senses which present 609. IWtoweef, because I meet, anew in various ways. 609, 610. sejise variously repre 16 242 PARADISE LOST. [Book VIIL Leads up to Heaven, is both the way and guide : Bear with me then, if lawful what I ask; — Love not the heavenly spirits ? and how their love 616 Express they ? by looks only, or do they mix Irradiance, virtual or immediate touch ? " To whom the angel, with a smile that glowed Celestial rosy red, love's proper hue, Answered : " Let it suffice thee that thou know'st 620 Us happy, and without love no happiness. Whatever pure thou in the body enjoy'st (And pure thou wert created) we enjoy In eminence, and obstacle find none Of membrane, joint, or limb, exclusive bars ; 625 Easier than air with air, if spirits embrace, Total they mix, union of pure with pure Desiring ; nor restrained conveyance need, As flesh to mix with flesh, or soul with soul. But I can now no more ; the parting sun 680 Beyond the earth's green Cape and verdant Isles Hesperian sets, my signal to depart. Be strong, live happy, and love, but first of all Him whom to love is to obey, and keep His great command ; take heed lest passion sway 635 Thy judgment to do aught, which else free will Would not admit ; thine and of all tliy sons The weal or woe in thee is placed ; beware ! l in thy persevering shall rejoice, And all the blest. Stand fiist ; to stand or fall 640 Free in thine own arbitrament it lies. 631, 632. green Cape and verd- 634. tvhom to love is to obey, tint Isles Hesperian. Cape Verde " For this is the love of God, that (Green) is the western cape of we 'erse5, stains ; tarnishes, most vigor of all my powers. a08 otkers', if not other's. 320. Less, too Uttle. 256 PARADISE LOST. [Book IX In narrow circuit straitened by a foe Subtle or violent, we not endued Single with like defence wherever met, 3SI5 How are we happy, still in fear of harm ? But harm precedes not sin : only our foe Tempting affronts us with his foul esteem Of our integrity ; his foul esteem Sticks no dishonor on our front, but turns 830 Foul on himself; then wherefore shunned or feared By us ? who rather double honor gain From his surmise proved false, find peace within, Favor from Heaven, our witness from the event. And what is faith, love, virtue, unassayed 3S5 Alone Avithout exterior help sustained ? Let us not then suspect our happy state Left so imperfect by the Maker wise, As not secure to single or combined. Frail is our happiness, if this be so, 84o And Eden were no Eden thus exposed." To whom thus Adam fervently replied : " O woman, best are all things as the will Of God ordained them ; his creating hand Nothing imperfect or deficient left 345 Of all that he created, much less man, Or aught that might his happy state secure. Secure from outward force ; within himself The danger lies, yet lies within his power ; Against his will he can receive no harm. 35C But God left free the will, for what obeys 324,325. "We, wherever we may 336. Alone, when alone. The be met, not being endued, sepa- meaning is, \Vliat is faith, love rate from each other, with the virtue, if it has not been put to name defence as if together. the proof when by itself, an(} 8S0. front, forehead; brow. without the aid of others ? 331. from the event, from what 339. As not to be secure to us ensues and proves our fidelity. both, whether separate or to 335. tinassnyed, untried; not gether. put to the proof. 347. Or aught, or left aupV imperfect. BooKlX.l PARADISE LOST. 257 Reason is free, and reason he made right, But bid her well be ware and still erect, Lest by some fair-appearing good surprised She dictate false, and misinform the will 866 To do what God expressly hath forbid Not then mistrust but tender love enjoins That I should mind thee oft, and mind thou me. Firm we subsist, yet possible to swerve, Since reason not impossibly may meet 360 Some specious object by the foe suborned. And fall into deception unaware, Not keeping strictest Avatch, as she was warned. Seek not temptation then, Avhich to avoid Were better, and most likely if from me 866 Thou sever not : trial will come unsought. Wouldst thou approve thy constancy, approve First thy obedience ; the other who can know, Not seeing thee attempted, who attest ? But if thou think trial unsought may find 870 Us both securer than thus warned thou seem'st, Go ; for thy stay, not free, absents thee more ; Go in thy native innocence, rely On what thou hast of virtue, summon all ; 374 For God towards thee hath done his part, do thine.** So spake the patriarch of mankind ; but Eve Persisted ; yet submiss, though last, replied : " With thy permission then, and thus forewarned, Chiefly by what thy own last reasoning Avords Touched only, that our trial Avhen least sought 380 353. ivare, wary. — erect, up- 868. the other, thj constsiucy. right ; on her guard. 369. attemptecJ, tried. — ivh-a 358. mind, remind; put in a«f.<;/, who can bear witness to it. ^nd 371. securer, less distrustful or 365. viost likely, which is most watchful of ourselves ; less pro- likely to be avoided. •pamd.—thou seenvst, thou seem- 367 approve, prove. est to be, or to consider thyself. 17 258 PARADISE LOST. [Book IX May find ns both perhaps far less prepared, The willinger I go, nor much expect A foe so proud will first the weaker seek ; So bent, the more shall shame him his repulse.*' Thus saying, fi-om her husband's hand her hand 388 Soft she withdrew, and like a wood-nymph light, Oread, or Dryad, or of Delia's train. Betook her to the groves ; but Delia's self In gait surpassed, and goddess-like deport. Though not as she with bow and quiver armed, 390 But with such gardening tools as art yet rude, Guiltless of fire, had formed, or angels brought. To Pales or Pomona, thus adorned Likest she seemed, Pomona when she fled Vertumnus, or to Ceres in her prime, 395 ret virgin of Proserpina from Jove. Her long with ardent look his eye pursued Delighted, but desiring more her stay. Oft he to her his charge of quick return Repeated ; she to him as oft engaged 4C0 To be returned by noon amid the bower, And all things in best order to invite Noontide repast or afternoon's repose. O much deceived, much failing, hapless Eve, Of thy presumed return ! event perverse ! 405 384. So bent, if so bent ; if he the aid of fire. The ancients fa- is so inclined. bled that fire was stolen from 387. Oread ^ or Dryad. The heaven. Oreads were nymphs of the 893. Pales was a rural divin- mountains, and the Dryads of ity among the Romans. Pomona the trees. (see V. 378) was beloved by Yer- 388. Delia's self. Diana was «!W7w?/5. the god of fruit, sometimes called Delia, from De- 393-395. Thus adorned, sh* los, the place of her birth. She seemed likest to Pales or Pomona was the goddess of the chase, and to Pomona, when she fled Ver Is represented among her attend- tuninus. ant nymphs as of lofty stature 395. Ceres. See IV. 271. and noble mien, witk 'boiv and 396. Before she had become bj quiver armed. Jupiter the mother of Proserpine 389. deport., port ; bearing. 402. And^ and to have. 892. G-uiltless of fire, without 405. presumed, anticipated Book IX.] PARADISE LOST. 2h^ Tliou never from tliat hour In Paradise Found'st either s\\'eet repast or sound repose ; Such ambush liid among sweet flowers and shades Waited with hellish rancor imminent To Intercept thy way, or send thee back 410 Despoiled of Innocence, of faith, of bliss. For now, and since first break of dawn, the Fiend, Mere serpent In appearance, forth was come, And on his quest where likeliest he might find The only two of mankind, but in them 415 The whole Included race, his purposed prey. In bower and field he sought, where any tuft Of grove or garden-plot more pleasant lay, Their tendance or plantation for delight ; By fountain or by shady rivulet 420 He sought them both, but wished his hap might find Eve separate ; he wished, but not with hope Of what so seldom chanced, when to his wish. Beyond his hope. Eve separate he spies, Veiled in a cloud of fragrance, where she stood, 425 Half spied, so thick the roses bushing round About her glowed, oft stooping to support Each flower of slender stalk, whose head, though gay Carnation, purple, azure, or specked Avith gold, Hung drooping unsustained ; them she upstays 400 Gently with myrtle band, mindless the while Herself, though fairest unsupported flower, From her best prop so far, and storms so nigh. Nearer he drew, and many a walk traversed Of stateliest covert, cedar, pine, or palm ; 435 Then voluble and bold, now hid, now seen, imong thick-woven arborets and flowers 409. i m ?ninpnt, close &thn.rx6.. 432. though fairest. See IV. 419. Their ten(/nnce, thtiirvrcvk, 270. to be tended oy them. 436. vohihlf^ moving in serpeDt 431. 7nindless, not minding; fold?: ; rolling on. forgetful (if. — the while, whUo 437. arborets^ shrubs or small 6he was thus occupied. trees. 160 PARADISE LOST. [Book LX. Imbordered on each bank, the hand of Eve : Spot more delicious than those gardens feigned Or of revived Adonis, or renowned ifA Alcinous, host of old Laertes' son, Or that, not mystic, Avhere the sapi»^nt king Held dalliance with his fair Egyptian spouse. Much he the place admired, the person more : As one who long in populous city pent 445 Where houses thick and sewers annoy the air, Forth issuing on a summer's morn to breathe Among the pleasant villages and farms Adjoined, from each thing met conceives delight, The smell of grain, or tedded grass, or kine, 460 Or dairy, each rural sight, each rural sound ; If chance with nymph-like step fair virgin pass. What pleasing seemed for her now pleases more, She most, and in her look sums all delight : — Such pleasure took the serpent to behold 466 This flowery plat, the sweet recess of Eve Thus early, thus alone. Her heavenly form Angelic, but more soft and feminine. Her graceful innocence, her every air Of gesture, or least action, overawed 460 His malice, and with rapine sweet bereaved His fierceness of the fierce intent it brought. That space the evil one abstracted stood From his own evil, and for the time remained Stupidly good, of enmity disarmed, 466 Of guile, of hate, of envy, of revenge ; 438. handi handiwork. 446. annoy, make roxious ; In- 440. Or. whether. — revived feet. Adonis. See I. 446-452. 450. tedded, shaken out to drj 441. Alcinous. See V. 341. — after having been mowed. old Laertes'' son., Ulysses. 452. nymph-like. See line 386. 442. not miislic, not taken as 454. sums^ siuns up ; completes mystic or allegorical, although de- the sum of. icribed in the Song of Solomon. 461. rapine sweet, sweet via- — the sapient king, Solomon. lence. 443. Egyptian spouse. Set 1 463. That space, for that Bpao« Sings Til. 8. of time. Book IX.] PARADISE LOST. But the hot hell that always In him burns, Though in mid Heaven, soon ended his delight, And tortures him now more, the more he sees Of pleasure not for him ordained : then soon Fierce hate he recollects, and all his thoughts Of mischief, gratulating, thus excites : 470 " Thoughts, whither have ye led me ? with what sweet Compulsion thus transported to forget What hither brought us ? hate, not love, nor hope Of Paradise for Hell, hope here to taste 476 Of pleasure, but all pleasure to destroy, Save what is in destroying ; other joy To me is lost. Then let me not let pass Occasion which now smiles ; behold alone 48O The woman, opportune to all attempts, Her husband (for I view far round) not nigh, Whose higher Intellectual more I shun. And strength, of courage haughty, and of limb Heroic built, though of terrestrial mould, 486 Foe not Informidable, exempt from wound, I not ; so much hath Hell debased and pain Enfeebled me, to what I was In Heaven. She fair, divinely fair, fit love for gods, Not terrible, though terror be In love 490 And beauty not approached by stronger hate, Hate stronger under show of love well feigned, The way which to her ruin now I tend." So spake the enemy of mankind, enclosed In serpent, inmate bad, and toward Eve 495 467 . See IV. 75. 484. haughty^ better perhaps 471. recollfcts. See I. 528. without the comma. 472. gratulating, rejoii-ing. 4S7. not, not exempt. 479, 480. let pass occasion, lose 4S8. to, compared with. ttie opportunity. 491. 7tnt, if not. 483 intellectual, Intellect. 493 which, on or by which — itnri, movA 262 PARADISE LOST. [Book IX Addressed his way, not with indented wave, Prone on tlie ground, as since, but on bis rear, Circular base of rising folds that towered, Fold above fold, a surging maze, his head Crested aloft, and carbuncle his eyes, 60(1 With burnished neck of verdant gold, erect Amidst his circling spires, that on the grass Floated redundant : pleasing Avas his shape And lovely, never since of serpent kind Lovelier ; not those that in Illyria changed 605 Hermione and Cadmus, or the god In Epidaurus ; nor to which transformed Ammonian Jove, or Capitoline, was seen. He with Olympias, this with her who bore Scipio, the height of Rome. With tract oblique 610 At first, as one who sought access but feared To interrupt, sidelong he works his way. As when a ship by skilful steersman wrought. Nigh river's mouth or foreland where the wind Veers oft, as oft so steers, and shifts her sail ; 515 So varied he, and of his tortuous train 496. indented,, in and out, like piter Ammon, was worshipped at the teeth of a saw. Ammonium, an oasis in the Ll- 499. surging,, rising; rising in byan desert. — Capitoline, im^X' wayes. ter CapitoUuus, the Jupiter of 505. those that in Blyrla chang- the Capitol at Rome. en secret, 806. haiJ the gift, if the gift, or what I hare done is perhaps power of giving, had been theirs, unknown. " Yet they say, the it would not have here grown. Lord shall not see." Psalm JciT. 807. Give, am indebted. 7. 803. net following thee I had 821. wants, is wanting. 18 274 PARADISE LOST. [Book IX. And death ensue ? tben T sliall be no more, And Adam, wedded to another Eve, Shall live with her enjoyhig, I extinct ; A death to think ! Confirmed then I resolve, 83C Adam shall share with me in bliss or woe : So dear I love him, that with him all deathj I could endure, without him live no life eatiis -7 So saying, from the tree her step she turned, But first low reverence done, as to the power 336 That dwelt within, Avhose presence had infused Into the plant sciential sap, derived From nectar, drink of gods. Adam the while. Waiting desirous her return, had wove Of choicest fiowers a garland to adorn 840 Her tresses, and her rural labors crown, As reapers oft are wont their harvest queen. Great joy he promised to his thoughts, and new Solace in her return, so long delayed ; Yet oft his heart, divine of something ill, 845 Misgave him ; he the faltering measure felt, And forth to meet her went, the way she took That morn when first they parted. By the Tree Of Knowledge he must pass, there he her met. Scarce from the tree returning ; in her hand 850 A bough of fairest fruit, that downy smiled, New gathered, and ambrosial smell diffused. To him she hasted ; in her face excuse Came prologue and apology to prompt, 864 Which with bland words at will she thus addressed : 830. A death to think, to \h\n\ 846. the faltering measure felt, of such a thing is itseU" a kind of felt his heart beat falteringly, death.— Conjinned. datevnuned. with nii.^giving. 835. reverence done. This is 850. .SVrt/Tfi, hardly ; just, the case absolute. 854. prologue, preface or intro- 837. sciential, giving knovrl- ductiou. — to prompt. Milton's edge, causing 'visdom. own editions have to, but most 842. are xoont, are wont to do editors prefer too. fbr. 855. at will, at her ccmmand 845. divine of, divining ; fore- boding. Book IX.] PARADISE LOST. 275 " Hast thou not wondered, Adara, at my stay ? Thee I have missed, and thought It long, deprived Thy presence : agony of love till now Not felt, nor shall be twice, for never more Mean I to try, what rash untried I sought, 860 The pain of absence from thy sight. But strange Hath been the cause, and wonderful to hear. ^This tree is not, as we are told, a tree Of danger tasted, nor to evil unknown Opening the way, but of divine effect S65 To open eyes, and make them gods who taste ;| And hath been tasted such. The serpent wis*^ Or not restrained as we, or not obeying, Hath eaten of the fruit, and is become. Not dead, as we are threatened, but henceforth 870 Endued with human voice and human sense, "Reasoning to admiration, and with me Persuasively hath so prevailed, that I Have also tasted, and have also found The effects to correspond ; opener mine eyes 875 Dim erst, dilated spirits, ampler heart. And growing up to godhead ; Avhich for thee Chiefly I sought, without thee can despise : For bliss, as thou hast part, to me is bliss ; Tedious, unshared with thee, and odious soon. 880 Thou therefore also taste, that equal lot May join us, equal joy, as equal love ; Lest, thou not tasting, different degree Disjoin us, and I then too late renounce Deity for thee, when fate will not permit." 885 Thus Eve with countenance blithe her story told ; R57. deprived^ deprived of; merly dim. — dilated spirits, ^• •without. lated are my spirits. — ample? 664. tasted, -when tasted. heart, enlarged my heart. 867. such, and found such. Sid. ai thou hast part^ just so 868. Or, either. far as thou sharest. >576. Dim erst, -which were for- 87G PARADISE LOST. [Book IX. But in her cheek distemper flushing glowed. On the other side, Adam, soon as he heard The fatal trespass done by Eve, amazed, Astonied stood and blank, while horroi chill 89C Ran through his veins, and all his joints relaxed ; From his slack hand the garland wreathed for Eve Down dropped, and all the faded roses shed : Speechless he stood and pale, till thus at length Fii-st to himself he inward silence broke : 895 " O fairest of creation, last and best Of all God's works, ci-eature in whom excelled Whatever can to sight or thought be formed Holy, divine, good, amiable, or sweet ! How art thou lost, how on a sudden lost, 900 Defaced, deflowered, and now to death devote ! Rather, how hast thou yielded to transgress The strict forbiddance, how to violate The sacred fruit forbidden ! Some cursed fraud Of enemy hath beguiled thee, yet unknown, 905 And me with thee hath ruined, for with thee, Certain my resolution is to die. How can I live without thee ! how forego Thy sweet converse, and love so dearly joined, To live again in these wild woods forlorn ! 910 Should God create another Eve, and I Another rib afford, yet loss of thee Would never from my heart : no, no ! I feel The link of nature draw me ; flesh of flesh. Bone of my bone thou art, and from thy state 9lg Mine never shall be parted, bliss or woe." So having said, as one from sad dismay 887. distemper^ disturbance. 909. converse^ society. 890. astonied, astonishad. 913. from, be absent from. 892. slack, grown weak. 915. Bone of my bone. Sm 901. devote, devoted ; doomed. Genesis ii. 23. BooKlX.l PARADISE LOhT. 277 Recoraforted, and after thoughts disturbed Submitting to what seemed remediless, Thus in calm mood his words to Eve he turned : 920 " Bold deed thou hast presumed, adventurous Eve, And peril great provoked, who thus hath dared, Had it been only coveting, to eye That sacred fruit, sacred to abstinence. Much more to taste it under ban to touch. 925 But past who can recall, or done undo ? Not God omnipotent, nor Fate ; yet so OPerhaps thou shalt not die, perhaps the fact Is not so heinous now, foretasted fruit. Profaned fii-st by the serpent, by him first 930 Made common and unhallowed ere our taste, Nor yet on him found deadly ; he yet lives. Lives, as thou said'st, and gains to live as man, Higher degree of life ; inducement strong To us, as likely tasting to attain 935 Proportional ascent, which cannot be But to be gods, or angels demi-gods. Q^or can I think that God, Creator wise. Though threatening, will in earnest so destroy Us his prime creatures, dignified so high, 940 Set over all his works, which in our fall, For us created, needs with us must fail, Dependent made ; C«o God shall uncreate, Be frustrate, do, undo, and labor lose ; Not well conceived of God, who, though his power Creation could repeat, yet would be loath 946 919. remediless^ without rem- 929. foretasted fruit, the fruit edy. having been first tiisted. 923. coveting^ with desire to 931. ere our taste, before w« taste. tasted. 925. Much more, much more 9.3.5. tasting, if we taste, taet dared. — under fcan, forbid- 937. arigels, \f angels. iiux 94lO. prime, first in importanc'* 944. f'ustrate, frustrated. 278 PARADISE LOST. [Book IX Us to abolish, lest the Adversary Triumph and say, ' Fickle their state whom God Most favors ; who can please him long ? Me first He ruined, now mankind ; whom will he next ? * 950 Matter of scorn, not to be given the foe. However, I with thee have fixed my lot, Certain to undergo like doom ; if death Consort with thee, death is to me as life ; So forcible within my heart I feel 956 The bond of nature draAV me to my own ; My own in thee, for what thou art is mine : Our state cannot be severed, we are one. One flesh ; to lose thee were to lose myself.'* So Adam, and thus Eve to him replied : 960 " O glorious trial of exceeding love. Illustrious evidence, example high. Engaging me to emulate ! but, short Of thy perfection, how shall I attain, Adam ? from whose dear side I boast me sprung, 965 And gladly of our union hear thee speak. One heart, one soul in both ; whereof good proof This day aflbrds, declaring thee resolved, Rather than death or aught than death more dread Shall separate us linked in love so dear, 970 To undergo with me one guilt, one crime, If any be, of tasting this fiiir fruit, Whose virtue (for of good still good proceeds Direct, or by occasion) hath presented This happy trial of thy love, which else vn So eminently never had been known. Were it I thought death menaced would ensue This my attempt, I would sustain alone The woi-st and not persuade thee, rather die 953. Certain^ resolved. 964. attain, attain to it. 954. Consort, be joined Q~'i. by occasion, \nc\i\fniaXly 859. were, would be. 977. ensue, follow. — Were it, if Book IX.j PARADISE LOST. 279 Peserted than oblige thee with a fact 980 rernicious to thy peace, chiefly assured Remarkably so late of thy so true So faithful love unequalled ; but I feel Far otherwise the event, not death, but life Augmented, opened eyes, new hopes, new joys, 955 Taste so divine, that what of sweet before Hath touched my sense flat seems to this, and harsh. On my experience, Adam, freely taste, And fear of death deliver to the winds." C So saying, she embraced him, and for joy 990 Tenderly Avept, much won that he his love Had so ennobled, as of choice to incur Divine displeasure for her sake, or deatl^ In recompense (for such compliance bad Such recompense best merits), from the bough 995 She o-ave him of that fair enticinn; fruit With liberal hand :riie scrupled not to eat, Against his better knowledge, not deceived. But fondly overcome '^y i ' idlLfe.l^^J^ ^harm. Earth tremblea from her entrailsTasagain lOOO In pangs, and Nature gave a second groan ; Sky loured, and, muttering thunder, some sad drops Wept at completing of the mortal sin Original ; while Adam took no thought. Eating his fill, nor Eve to iterate 1005 Her former trespass feared, the more to soothe Him with her loved society ; that now, 980. oblige. This word is here 9S7. to, compared with, ased ia one of the senses of the 991. icon„ charmed. Latin yerb "oblige,"' which 996. See Genesis iii. 6. Bometimes means to make guilty, 1000. Eartli trembled. ?^e lines B.nd so lound to the punishment 780-784. »f guilt. — /act, deed. 1003. mortal, deadly ; bringing 981. chiefly nssured, more es- death. See I. 2. 3. pecially now that 1 have been 1J04. Original, first ; begin- kRsiired. ning of all others. 984. ^/lecren^, the consequence 1005. iterate, repeat. Vdy. See lines 875, 876. 1007 tliat^ so that. 280 PARADISE LOST. [Book IX As with new wine intoxicated both, riiey swim in mirth, and fancy that they feel Divinity within them breeding wings lOlC Wherewith to scorn the earth : but that false frnit Far other operation first displayed, Carnal desire inflaming ; he on Eve Began to cast lascivious eyes ; she him As wantonly repaid ; in lust they burn, 1011 Till Adam thus gan Eve to dalliance move ; " Eve, now I see thou art exact of taste And elegant, of sapience no small part, Since to each meaning savor we apply. And palate call judicious ; I the praise 1020 Yield thee, so well this day thou hast purveyed. Much pleasure we have lost, while we abstained From this delightful fruit, nor known till now True relish, tasting ; if such pleasure be In things to us forbidden, it might be wished 1025 For this one tree had been forbidden ten. But come, so well refreshed, now let us play. As meet is after such delicious fare ; For never did thy beauty, since the day I saw thee first and wedded thee, adorned 1080 With all perfections, so inflame my sense With ardor to enjoy thee, fairer now Than ever, bounty of this virtuous tree." So said he, and forbore not glance or toy Of amorous intent, well understood 1031 Of Eve, whose eye darted contagious fire. 1018. of sapience nn small party "sapor" is used both literally which (this exact and elegant and figuratively. taste) is itself no small part of 102'1. tasting, having tasted it wisdom or sapience. 1026. For, that instead of. 1019. Since we use the word in both genses. The Latin word Book IX.] PARADISE LOST. 281 Her hand he seized, and to a shady bank, Thick over head with verdant roof iuibowered, He led her nothing loath ; flowers were the couch, Pansies and violets and asphodel 1040 And hyacinth, earth's freshest softest lap. There they their fill of love and love's disport Took largely, of their mutual guilt the seal, The solace of their sin, till dewy sleep Oppressed them, wearied with their amorous play. Soon as the force of that fallacious fruit, 1046 That with exhilarating vapor bland About their spirits had played and inmost powers Made err, was now exhaled, and grosser sleep. Bred of unkindly fumes, with conscious dreams lOoO Encumbered, now had left them ; up they rose As from unrest, and, each the other viewing. Soon found their eyes how opened, and their minds How darkened : innocence, that as a veil « Had shadowed them from knowing ill, wa5 gone, Just confidence and native righteousness 1056 And honor, from about them, naked left To guilty Shame ; he covered, but his robe Uncovered more. So rose the Danite strong, Herculean Samson, from the harlot-lap 1060 Of Philistcan Dalilah, and waked Shorn of his strength ; they destitute and bare Of all their virtue : silent, and in face Confounded, long they sat, as strucken mute. Till Adam, though not less than Eve abashed, 1065 At length gave utterance to these words constrained ; " O Eve, in evil hour thou didst give ear 1049. Made err^ bad made to 1057. from about them, were err. gone from about them. 1050 conscious, conscious of 1059. 7nore, more tluin he cov- guilt. ered. — the l)anite. See Juiigef xiii. and xvi. 4-21. 282 PARADISE LOST. [Book DL To that false worm, of whomsoever taught To counterfeit man's voice, true in our fall, False in our promised rising ; since our eyes 1070 Opened we find indeed, and find Ave know Both good and evil, good lost, and evil got ; Bad fruit of knowledge, if this be to know. Which leaves us naked thus, of honor void, Of innocence, of faith, of purity, 1075 Our wonted ornaments now soiled and stained, And in our faces evident the signs Of foul concupiscence ; whence evil store, Even shame, the last of evils ; of the first Be sure then. Hoav shall I behold the face 1080 Henceforth of God or angel, erst with joy And rapture so oft beheld ? those heavenly shapes Will dazzle now this earthly with their blaze Insufferably bright. O might I here Iti solitude live savage, in some glade 1085 Obscured, where highest woods, impenetrable To star or sun light, spread their umbrage broad And brown as evening ! Cover me, ye pines, Ye cedars,with innumerable boughs Hide me, where I may never see them more ! 1090 But let us now, as in bad plight, devise What best may for the present serve to hide The parts of each from other, that seem most To shame obnoxious, and unseemliest seen ; Some tree, whose broad smooth leaves, together sewed And girded on our loins, may cover round 1096 Those middle parts, that this new comer, Shame, There sit not, and reproach us as unclean." So counselled he, and both together went 106S. worm. Compare VII. 1079. Jirst, first evil or evUd, 482-4&4. 1081. erst, formerly. 1078. evil store, store of evil 1090. them. See line 1082. things Book IX.] PARADISE LOST. 283 Into the thickest avoocI ; there soon they chose 1100 The fig-tree, not that kind for fruit renowned, But such as at this day to Indians known In Malabar or Decan spreads her arms Branching so broad and long, that in the ground The bended twigs take root and daughters grow About the mother tree, a pillared shade 1106 High overarched, and echoing walks between ; There oft the Indian herdsman, shunning heat, Shelters in cool, and tends his pasturing herds At loop-holes cut through thickest shade. Those leaves They gathered, broad as Amazonian targe, llll And, with what skill they had, together sewed, To gird their waist ; vain covering, if to hide Their guilt and dreaded shame ! O how unlike To that first naked glory ! Such of late 1115 Columbus found the American, so girt With feathered cincture, naked else and wild Among the trees on isles and woody shores. Thus fenced and, as they thought, their shame in part Covered, but not at rest or ease of mind, 1120 They sat them down to weep ; nor only teai-s Rained at their eyes, but high winds worse within Began to rise, high passions, anger, hate, 1102. Indians, the inhabitants leaves are not large, so that of India. the description in line 1111 is 1103. Malabar or Decan. The incorrect. Deccau is a name formerly ap- 11('9. cool, the cool, plied to the whole of the southern 1110. loop-holes cut,ha.ying cut part of Ilindostan. Its west- openings through which he can em coast is called Malabar. watch. 1106. a pillared shade. Tha 1111. Amazonian targe, thd Ficus Indica, Indian i'ig, or shield of an Amazon. The Ama- Banyan tree, throws out roots zons were a race of female war' from its branches, which, reach- riors. Cng the ground, fix themselves 1115. of late, lately. Milton there, and become in their turn was two centuries nearer Colum- trunks with branches fi-om which b us than we are. other roots are thrown out, till 1X12. fenced, defended. Mie tree becomes a grove. Its 284 PARADISE LOST. [Book IX Mistrust, suspicion, discord, and shook sore Their inward state of mind, cahn region once 112B And full of peace, now tossed and turbulent ; For understanding ruled not and the will Heard not her lore, both in subjection now To sensual appetite, who from beneath. Usurping over sovran reason, claimed 1130 Superior sway : from thus distempered breast, Adam, estranged in look and altered style, Speech intermitted thus to Eve renewed : ( " Would thou hadst hearkened to my wordsj, and ^ staid With me, as I besought thee, Avhen that strange Desire of wandering this unhappy morn, 1136 I know not whence, possessed thee ; we had then Remained still happy, not as now despoiled Of all our good, shamed, naked, miserable. Let none henceforth seek needless cause to approve The faith they owe ; when earnestly they seek 1141 Such proof, conclude they then begin to fail." To whom, soon moved with touch of blame, thus Eve : " What words have passed thy lips, Adam severe ! Imput'st thou that to my default, or will 1145 Of wandering as thou call'st it, ^vhich who knows But might as ill have happened thou being by, Or to thyself perhaps ? Hadst thou been there, Or here the attempt, thou couldst not have discerned 1128. her lore., the learning or 1145. will, wish ; determined counsel that understanding purpose, would have given. 114:6. which. The antecedent 1131. thus ilistempered breast, is V910. 270. enterprisest, undertakest 260, 261 .ybr intercourse or tranS' 298 PARADISE LOST. [Book X. For death the following day in bloody fight ; So scented the grim feature, and upturned His nostril wide into the murky air, 28Ao, those who. 368. oj/r, for us. 354. magnific, great ; wonder- 369. thou, thou hast. Jul. 370. /brij/y, make strong; firm- 861. evidence, show ; prove. — ly build. itraight, stTSiightwsLy. 372. virtue, prowess; vigor. 363. must, must follow. 374. With odds, with adyan 364. consequence, connection. tage. 366. unvoyageable, not before 375. foil, defeat, to be travelled over or crossed. 376. victor, as victor 302 PARADISE LOST. [Book X. Retiring by liis own doom alienated, And henceforth monarchy with thee divide Of all things parted by the empyreal bounds, 880 His quadrature, from thy orbicular world. Or try thee now more dangerous to his throne." Whom thus the prince of darkness answered glad : " Fair daughter, and thou son and grandchild both, High proof ye now have given to be the race 385 Of Satan (for T glory in the name, Antagonist of Heaven's almighty king), Amply have merited of me, of all The infernal empire, that so near Heaven's door Triumphal with triumphal act have met, 890 Mine with this glorious work, and made one realm Hell and this world, one realm, one continent Of easy thoroughfare. Therefore while I Descend through darkness on your road with ease To my associate powers, them to acquaint 89& With these successes and with them rejoice, You two this way, among these numerous orbs All yours, right down to Paradise descend ; There dwell and reign in bliss, thence on the earth Dominion exercise and in the air, 400 Chiefly on man, sole lord of all declared ; Him first make sure your thrall, and lastly kill. My substitutes I- send ye, and create Plenipotent on earth, of matchless might Issuing from me : on your joint vigor now 406 378. doom^ sentence ; decree. 388. Amply have merited, and 881. His quadrature, the square ye have much deserved, of Heaven — unflelermined square 390. Triiwiphal, triumphal act. or round. II. 1048. " And the 391. Mine, my work. city lieth four-square." Revela- 393. of easy thoroughfare, easy tion xxi. 16. of passage. 382. O, try., or let him try. 402. thrall, slave ; bondsman. 386. The Hebrew word Satan 403. My, as my. means adversary. 404. Plenipotent, of fixM'^ynx Book X.] PARADISE L OS T. 303 My hold of this new kingdom all depends, Through sin to death exposed by my exploit. If your joint power prevail, the affairs of Hell No detriment need fear ; go, and bo strong." So saying, he dismissed them ; they with speed 4lii Their course through thickest constellations held, Spreading their bane ; the blasted stai-s looked wan, And planets, planet-struck, real eclipse Then suffered. The other way Satan went down The causey to Hell-gate ; on either side 415 Disparted Chaos overbuilt exclaimed. And with rebounding surge the bare assailed That scorned his indignation : through the gate, Wide open and unguarded, Satan passed. And all about found desolate ; for those 420 Appointed to sit there had left their charge, Flown to the upper world ; the rest were all Far to the inland retired, about the walls Of Pandemonium, city and proud seat Of Lucifer, so by allusion called 426 Of that bright star to Satan paragoned. There kept their watch the legions, while the grand In council sat, solicitous what chance Might intercept their emperor sent ; so he Departing gave command, and they observed. 480 As when the Tartar from his Russian foe 406. all, entirely ; wholly. 420. those, Sin and Deatn. 412. bane, poison ; evil influ 424. Pandemonium. See I. ence. 756. 413. Astrologers pretended 425. Lucifer. See V. 760. that the planets in certain as- 426 that bright star. See VII. pects exercised an eyil influ- 131-133. —pam°-orier/, compared. »nce, under which persons or 427 grand, grandees. Ihings wasted away ; they were 428. solicitous what chance. lhen°said to be planet-struck. anxious lest some chance. 415. caM5fy, causeway. 430. Departing gave command 416. exclaimed, clamored. See II. 4G2-465. — observed, obey 418. the gate. See II. 643-649. ed. 304 PARADISE LOST. [Book A By Astracan over the snoAvy plains Retires, or Bactrian Sophi from the horn Of Turkish crescent leaves all waste beyond The realm of Aladule in his retreat iSS To Tauris or Casbeen ; so these, the late Heaven-banished host, left desert utmost Hell Many a dark league, reduced in careful watch Round their metropolis, and now expecting Each hour their great adventurer from the search 440 Of foreign worlds. He through the midst unmarked, In show plebeian angel militant Of lowest order, passed ; and from the door Of that Plutonian hall invisible Ascended his high throne, which under state 446 Of richest texture spread at the upper end Was placed in regal lustre. Down awhile He sat, and round about him saw unseen : At last, as from a cloud, his fulgent head And shape star-bright appeared, or brighter, clad 450 With what permissive glory since his fall Was left him or false glitter. All amazed At that so sudden blaze the Stygian throng Bent their aspect, and whom they wished beheld, 432. Astracan, or Astrachan, a 436. Tauris, or Tabriz, is a city city situated at the mouth of the in the northwestern, and Gas- Volga, on the north side of the beeii, or Casbiu, is a city in the Caspian Sea. northern part of Persia. 433, 434. Bactrian Sophi, one 438. reduced, drawn back. See of the titles of the king of Persia line 423. is Sophi, and he is here called 442. show, appearance. Bactrian from the ancient Bac- 444. Plutonian, infernal ; be- tria, which is now a part of Per- longing to Pluto, the fabled god Bia. In the sixteenth century of the infernal regions, there was continual war between 445. state, stately canopy, the Persians and the Turks, who 449. fulgent, shining, possessed the country west of 451. permissive, held by peiw Persia. — crescent, standard which mission and not of right, bears the Crescent, the emblem 453. Stygian. See II. 606. of the Turkish power. 454. Bent their aspect, tum«4 435. Aladule was the last mon- or fixed their looks, arch of the Greater Armenia, who 454 tvhom, him whom. — had been defeated and slain by wished, were ■wishing for. the Turks. Book X.] JrAHADlSE LOST 305 Their mighty chief returned : loud was the cacolalm. Forth rushed in haste the great consulting peers, 456 Raised from their dark divan, and -svith like joy Congratulant approached him, who Avith hand Silence, and with these words attention, won : " Thrones, Dominations, Princedoms, Virtue, Powers ! 460 For in possession such, not only of right, I call ye and declare ye now, returned Successful beyond hope to lead }'e forth Triumphant out of this infernal pit Abominable, accursed, the house of woe, 466 And dungeon of our tyrant : now possess As lords a spacious world, to our native Heaven Little inferior, by my adventure hard With peril great achieved. Long were to tell What I have done, what suffered, with what pain 470 Voyaged the unreal, vast, unbounded deep Of horrible confusion, over which By Sin and Death a broad way now is paved To expedite your glorious march ; but I Toiled out my uncouth passage, forced to ride 476 The untractable abyss, plunged in the womb Of unoriginal Night and Chaos wild. That jealous of their secrets fiercely opposed My journey strange, Avith clamorous uproar Protesting Fate supreme ; thence how I found 480 The new-created world, which fame in Heaven Long had foretold, a fabric wonderful. Of absolute perfection ! therein man 457. divan, council. Di\aii is 475. uncouth. See II. 407. »n Oriental word. 476. untractable, untamable. 459. icon, that is, won silence 477. vnnris:inal, without begin and attention. ninjr or birth. 469. Long were, long would it 480. Protesting, calling to wit- be. ness against my attemi)t. 2a BOG PARADISE LOST. [Book X. Placed in a paradise, by our exile Made liappy. Him by fraud I have seduced 489 From Ills Creator, and, the more to increase Your wonder, with an apple ! He thereat Offended (worth your laughter !) hath given up Both his beloved man and all his world To Sin and Death a prey, and so to us, 490 Without our liazard, labor, or alarm, To range in and to dwell, and over man To ride, as over all he should have ruled. True is, me also he hath judged, or rather Me not, but the brute serpent in whose shape 495 Man I deceived : that which to me belongs Is enmity, which he will put between Me and mankind ; I am to bruise his heel ; His seed, when is not set, shall bruise my head. A world who would not purchase with a bruise, 500 Or much more grievous pain ? Ye have the ac- count Of my performance : what remains, ye gods. But up and enter now into full bliss ? " I So having said, awhile he stood, expecting Their universal shout and high applause 506 To fill his ear ; when contrary he hears On all sides from innumerable tongues A dismal universal hiss, the sound Of public scorn : he wondered, but not long Had leisure, wondering at himself now more ; 610 His visage drawn he felt to sharp and spare, His arms clung to his ribs, his legs entwining 48S. worth, this is well worth, 503. But up, but to soar up. tir worthy of. 512. clung, pressed or squeezed 494. 2'riie is, true it is that. — He felt his arms pressed to his kat/t judged. See hues 171-181. ribs. 499. ^o/ien is not set^ the time b not appointed Book X.] PARADISE LOST. 307 Each other, till supplanted down he fell A monstrous serpent on his belly prone, Reluctant, but in vain ; a greater power gig Now ruled him, punished in the shape he sinned, According to his doom. He Avould have spoke, But hiss for hiss returned with forked tongue To forked tongue ; for now were all transformed Alike, to serpents all, as accessories 520 To his bold riot J dreadful was the din Of hissing through the hall, thick swarming now With complicated monsters head and tail, Scorpion, and asp, and amphisbaena dire. Cerastes horned, hydrus, and elops drear, 525 And dipsas (not so thick swarmed once the soil Bedropt with blood of Gorgon, or the isle Ophiusa) ; but still greatest he the midst. Now dragon grown (larger than whom the sun Ingendered in the Pythian vale on slime, 530 Huge Python), and his power no less he seemed Above tlie rest still to retain. They all Him followed, issuing forth to the open field, Where all yet left of that revolted rout. Heaven-fallen, in station stood or just array, 5.35 513. supjilanted, overthrown; word which means abounding in tripped up by the heels. snakes, and is said to have been 514. prone^ lying with the face applied to a small island in the downward. Mediterranean, which was aban- 515. Reluctant, struggling doned by its inhabitants on ac- against the change. count of the great number of 521. riot, sedition ; insurrec- serpents that infested it. tion. 529. Dragon. "The dragon, 523. complicated, intertwined. that old serpent, which is the 624. ampliisbcBna, a species of Devil, and Satin." Rev. xx. 2. tar pent, formerly deemed poison- — ivliom, he whom. — the Sun^ ous or fJire. Apollo or Phoebus. 525. Cerastes, hydrus (water- 531. Py//io« was a /n/§'e serpent fnake), elops and dipsas are produced from the mud or slime uames of different kinds of ser- left on the earth after the deluge {►ents. of Deucalion. — 7io less, not less 627. Bedropt, sprinkled. — than his superior size. vorgon. See II. 611. 535. in station, on guard. 528 Ophiusa. This is a Greek just array, military order 508 PARADISE LOST. [Book X Sublime with expectation when to sec In triumph issuing forth their glorious chief: They saw, but other sight instead, a crowd Of ugly serpents ! horror on them fell, And horrid sympathy ; for what they saw 510 They felt themselves now changing : down their arras, Down fell both spear and shield, down they as fast, And the dire hiss renewed, and the dire form Catched by contagion, like in punishment As in their crime. Thus was the applause they meant 545 Turned to exploding hiss, triumph to shame, Cast on themselves from their own mouths. There stood A grove hard by, sprung up with this their change, His will who reigns above, to aggravate Their penance, laden with fair fruit like that 550 Which grew in Paradise, the bait of Eve Used by the Tempter : on that prospect strange Their earnest eyes they fixed, imagining For one forbidden tree a multitude Now risen, to work them further woe or shame ; 555 Tet parched with scalding thirst and hunger fierce, Though to delude them sent, could not abstain, But on they rolled in heaps, and up the trees Climbing, sat thicker than the snaky locks That curled Magaara^greedily they plucked 560 The fruitage, fair to sight like that which grew Near that bituminous lake where Sodom flamed; 536. sublime^ uplifted. 561. like that, like the fruit 541. changing, changing into. called Apple of Sodom, which re- 546. exploding, driving, as it sembles a smooth orange or yel- rere, from the stage. low apple. It is fair to the sight, 549. His icill, by will of him. but contains only air and seeda 557. Though, though this was. within. It was formerly sup- - couid not, they could not. posed to be filled with ashes. 560. MegcRra was one of the 562. that bituminous lake, Van jhree Fui-ies whose hair was Dead Sea. — ivhere Sodom flamed twined with serpents. — curled, See Genesis xix. 24-28. Tormod the curls of. Book X.] PARADISE LOST. 309 This, more delusive, not the touch, but taste Deceived ; they, fondly thinking to allay Their appetite with gust, instead of fruit 66S Chewed bitter ashes, Avhich the offended taste With spattering noise rejected : oft they assayed, Hunger and thirst constraining ; drugged as oft, With hatefullest disrelish writhed their jaAvs With soot and cinders filled i so oft they fell 570 Into the same illusion, not as man Whom they triumphed once lapsed. Thus were they plagued And worn with famine long and ceaseless hiss, Till their lost shape, permitted, they resumed ; Yearly enjoined, some say, to undergo 575 This annual humbling certain numbered days To dash their pride and joy for man seduced. However, some tradition they dispersed Among the heathen of their purchase got, And fabled how the serpent, whom they called 680 Ophion, with Eurynome (the wide Encroaching Eve perhaps), had first the rule Of high Olympus, thence by Saturn driven And Ops, ere yet Dictaean Jove was born. Meanwhile in Paradise the hellish pair 685 Too soon arrived ; Sin there in power before, Once actual, now in body, and to dwell Habitual habitant ; behind her Death, 565. gust, pleasant taste. his wife Rhea, or Ops. Jupiter 569. lorithed^ they writhed. or Jove was called Dictgean from 572. triutnphed, triumphed Dicte, a mountain in Crete, where over. — once lapsed, only once he was brought up. The Greek &llen. name Eurynome means wide- old, certain ni(7nbered days, for encroaching. ft. certain number of days. 587. Once actual, having been 579-584. 0/)/h'o?i was one of the there once in act, and therefore Tit ins, who reigned, with Eury- in potcer, though not in per»DQ, nome, over Olympus, till they or in body. Here conquered by Saturn and 310 PARADISE LOST. [Book A. Close following pace for pace, not mounted yet On his pale horse ; to whom Sin thus began : 690 " Second of Satan sprung, all-conquering Death, What think'st thou of our empire now, though earned With travail difficult ? not better far Than still at Hell's dark threshold to have sat watch, Unnamed, undreaded, and thyself half-starved ? " 595 Whom thus the Sin-born monster answered soon : " To me, who with eternal famine pine, Ahke is Hell, or Paradise, or Heaven ; There best where most with ravin I may meet ; Which here, though plenteous, all too little seems 600 To stuff' this maw, this vast unhide-bound corpse." To whom the incestuous mother tluls replied : " Thou therefore on these herbs and fruits and flow- ers Feed first ; on each beast next, and fish and fowl, No homely morsels ; and whatever thing 605 The scythe of Time mows down devour unspared ; Till I in man residing through the race. His thoughts, his looks, words, action, all infect, And season him thy last and sweetest prey." This said, they both betook them several ways, 61C Both to destroy, or unimmortal make All kinds, and for destruction to mature Sooner or later ; which the Almighty seeing, 590. his rfi^e horse. "And I 599. there 6es«, there is it best looked, and behold, a pale hor.se ; — ravin, prey, rapine, sind his name that sat on him 601. unhide-bound, capacious was Death." Eevelatiou vi. 8. not bound as with a close skin 693. not better, is it not better. — corpse, body (of Death). Book X.] PARADISE LOST. 311 From liis transcendent seat the saints among, To those bright Orders uttered thus his voice : 6111 " See with what heat these dogs of Hell advance To waste and havoc yonder world, which I So fair and good created, and had still Kept in that state, had not the folly of man Let in these wasteful furies, who impute 620 Folly to me (so doth the prince of Hell And his adherents), that with so much ease I suffer them to enter and possess A place so heavenly, and conniving seem To gratify my scornful enemies, 625 That laugh, as if transported with some fit Of passion I to them had quitted all At random yielded up to their misrule. And knew not that I called and drew them thither, My hell-hounds, to lick up the draff and filth 630 Which man's polluting sin with taint hath shed On what was pure; till crammed and gorged, nigh burst, With sucked and glutted offal, at one sling Of thy victorious arm, Avelhpleasing Son, Both Sin and Death, and yawning grave at last, 635 Through Chaos hurled, obstruct the mouth of Hell Forever, and seal up his ravenous jaws. Then heaven and earth renewed shall be made pure To sanctity that shall receive no stain ; 639 Till then the curse pronounced on both precedes." He ended, and the heavenly audience loud Sung hallelujah, as the sound of seas, Through multitude that sung : " Just are thy ways, 618. Aa^/, should have. Qi2. hallelujah. The meaniug 631. with taint, carrying with of this word is, " Praise ye the 'It taiat. Lord." 633. glutted, swallowed. G43. Through, by n.-ason of. — 638. renewed. See 2 Peter Just are thy ways. See Revela- lii, 13 i also Book III. 333-338. tion xv. 3 312 PARADISE LOST. [Book X, Righteous arc thy decrees on all tliy works ; Who can extenuate thee ? Next, to the Son, 3tf Destined restorer of mankind, by whom New heaven and earth shall to the ages rise, Or down from Heaven descend." — Such was their song. While the Creator, calling forth by name His mighty angels, gave them several charge, G50 As sort(;d best with present things. The sun Had first his precept so to move, so shine. As might affect the earth with cold and heat Scarce tolerable, and from the north to call Decrepit winter, from the south to bring 655 Solstitial summer's heat. To the blanc moon Her office they prescribed ; to the other five Their planetary motions and aspects, In sextile, squai'C, and trine, and opposite Of noxious efficacy, and when to join 660 In synod unbenign ; and taught the fixed 644. Righteous. See Revela- third of the zodiac, or one hun- tion xvi. 7. dred and twenty degrees. AVhen 645. extenuate^ diminish in tliey are in opposition, they are honor ; weaken in power. one hundred and eighty degrees 648. descend. See Revelation from each other, or opposite xxi. 1, 2. They are said to be in coujunc- 650. several charge, cliarge to tiou, or to join, when they meet each ; oflfice to be severally per- in the same part of the zodiac, formed. 660. Of noxious efficacy. The 651. sorted with, fitted. pretended science of astrology 652. precept, command. taught that the aspects of the 656. solstitial. When the sun planets influenced the destiny of la in the northern solstice, or human beings. If the aspect point in the ecliptic at which it was opposite, tlieir influence waa ks farthest north from the equa- unbenign, as often when they tor, it is the height of summer were in conjunction, or met m to the northern hemisphere. — synod. \lanr,, white or pale. 661-664, tlie fixed, the fixed 657 the other five. See V. 177. stars. The.se, like the planets, 658 ■6'31. aspects, their situa- were supposed to act upon event? tion with regard to each other, on earth, and to shower mnlii, ^\''hen in sextile, they are sepa- nant infiuence, as also to affect rated bj' one sixth of the zodiac, the air, so as to cause tempestu or sixty degrees ; when in square, oits weather, either when thej by one fourth of the zodiac, or rose or set with the sun ttinety degrees ; in trine, by one Book X.] PARADISE LOST. 313 Their influence malignant when to shower, Which of them rising with the sun or felling Should prove tempestuous : to the winds they set Their corners, when with bluster to oonfound 666 Sea, air, and shore ; the thunder when to roll With terror through the dark aerial hall. Some say, he bid his angels turn askance The poles of Earth twice ten degrees and more From the sun's axk. ; they with labor pushed 670 Oblique the centric globe : some say, the sun Was bid turn reins from the equinoctial road Like distant breadth to Taurus with the seven Atlantic Sisters, and the Spartan Twins, Up to the Tropic Crab ; thence down amain 676 By Leo and the Virgin and the Scales As deep as Capricorn, to bring in change Of seasons to each clime ; else had the spring Perpetual smiled on earth with vernant flowers, Equal in days and nights, except to those 680 668-670, turn askance the poles (that is, Castor and Pollux), to of Earth. The Earth's axis (here Cancer, the tropic Crab. This supposed to have been before was its farthest northern limit, parallel to that of the Sun ) was whence it descended through turned oblique to the ecliptic, so Leo, Virgo, Libra (where it that it should incline, as it now crossed the Equinoctial), Scor- does, twice ten rlpgrees and more, pio and Sagittarius to Capri- This inclination of the axis causes comus, its farthest southern the variety of seasons on the Uniit, from which it ascended Earth's surface, according to the to Aries. — Like-distant breaitk. Copernican System of Astron- Compare line 669. — Atlantic Sis- omy, which was fully established ters. These were the seven daugh- in Milton's time by Galileo. ters of Atlas, who were trans- 671-677, the centric ^lobe. The lated to the heavens, where they Earth, in the old (or Ptolemaic) form the cluster called the Plei- Bvstem of Astronomy, is the cen- ades or Seven Stars (of which six tre of the universe, and accord- only are visible) in the neck ol Ing to that, or as so7/ie saij, it the constellation Taurus. — the. was the Sun that was bid to Tropic Crab. When the Sun ia change its course among the in the sign Cancer, it seems to signs of the zodiac, so as to turn to the south ; bene* the drive its chariot, not, as before, word tropic, from a Greek word in the equinoctial road, but by as- signifying to turn, tent from Aries through Taurus 679' vernant, belonging tc and Gemini, t/ie Spartan livins spring. 314 PARADISE LOST. [Book JL Beyond the polar circles ; to them day Had unbenlgbted shone, while the low sun, To recompense his distance, in their sight Flad rounded still the horizon, and not known Or east or west ; which had forbid the snow 68i From cold Estotiland, and south as far Beneath Magellan. At that tasted fruit The sun, as from Thyestean banquet, turned His course intended ; else how had the world Inhabited, thougli sinless, more than now 69C Avoided pinching cold and scorching heat ? These changes in the heavens, though slow, produced Like change on sea and land, sideral blast, Vapor and mist and exhalation hot. Corrupt and pestilent. Now from the north 696 Of Norumbega, and the Samoed shore, Bursting their brazen dungeon, armed with ice And snow and hail, and stormy gust and flaw, Boieas and Cascias and Argestes loud 682-687. Had wibenighted cording to Grecian mythology shone, would have shone with- the brother of Thyestes, in re- out night. But for the iucli- Tenge for wrongs that he had nation of the Earth's axis, the received, slew the two sons of Sun, being always in the Equi- Thyestes. and having prepared a noctial, would shine from pole to banquet to which he invited his pole, never appearing to those be- brother, placed their flesh be- yond the polar circles high above fore him. the horizon, while at the pole 689. else, otherwise. — had, he would seem to move round in would have. the horizon without either risiug 690. more than now. any or setting. — To recompense his more than it does now. distance, to compensate for the 693. sideral, belonging to or lOmparative want of light and produced by the stars. See 661- beat occasioned by his distance. 664. — Or, either. — which had for- 696. Nor)nnhega, a part of Md, this would liave forbidden North America, probably New or prevented. — Estotiland is a England and what lay west of it. name formerly applied to the — the Samoed shore, i\x& north- northern part of America, near ern coast of Siberia, which is the Arctic Circle. — Beneath Ma- inhabited by wandering tribes oi eellam, south of the Straits of Samoiedes. MageUan. 699-702. Boreas, the north 687. At that tasted fruit, when wind ; Ccpxias, the northeast the fruit was tast«id. wind ; Argestes, the northwes* 688. Thyestean banquet. Ac- wind | Thrascias, a ijorth-nortljr Book X.] PARADISE LOST. 315 And Thrascias rend the woods and seas upturn ; 70Q With adverse blast upturns them from the south Notus and Afer, bLack with thunderous clouds From Serraliona ; thwart of these as fierce Forth rush the Levant and the Ponent winds, Eurus and Zephyr, with their lateral noise, 706 Sirocco and Libecchio. Thus began Outrage from lifeless things ; but Discord first, Daughter of Sin, among the irrational Death introduced through fierce antipathy : 709 Beast now with beast gan war, and fowl with fowl, And fish with fish ; to graze the herb all leaving Devoured each other, nor stood much in awe Of man, but fled him, or with countenance grim Glared on him passing. These were from without The growing miseries which Adam saw 715 ALready in part, though hid in gloomiest shade, To sorrow abandoned, but worse felt within, And in a troubled sea of passion tost. Thus to disburden sought with sad complaint : " O miserable of happy ! is this the end 720 Of this new glorious world, and me so late The glory of that glory, who now, become Accursed of blessed, hide me from the flice Of God, whom to behold was then my height Of happiness ? yet Avell, if here would end 726 The misery ; I deserved it, and would bear west winfl ; Notus, the south and southwest winds, the lateral wind ; Afer, the southwest wind noise of Eurus and Zephyr^ th* coming from Africa. east and west wipuds. 703. Serraliona, Sierra Leone. 710. gan war. See VI. 60. — thivart of, SlCvo&s \ at right an- 711. having, CQAsm^. gles with. 719. to disburden, to relicTe hlf 704-706. Levant, BTist; Ponent, mii:.d. west. These are from the Italian 720. of, from. So In line T23 words for East and West, moan- 721. we, of me. ing rising and setting. Siiocco 725. tcfi/, it would be well • l,nd Libecchio^ are the southeast 316 PARADISE L OS T. [Book X. My owa deservlngs ; but this will not serve ; All that I eat or drink, or shall beget, Is propagated curse. O voice once heard Delightfully, ' Increase and multiply,' 780 Now death to hear ! for what can I increase Or multiply, but curses on my head ? Who of all ages to succeed, but, feeling The evil on him brought by me, will curse My head ? — III fare our ancestor impure ; 735 For this ice may tllank Adam ! but his thanks Shall be the execration ; so, besides Mine OAvn that bide upon me, all from me Shall with a fierce reflux on me redound, On me, as on their natural centre, light, 740 Heavy though in their place. O fleeting'joys Of Paradise, dear bought with lasting woes ! Did I request thee, Maker, from my clay To mould me man ? did I solicit thee From darkness to promote me, or here place 745 In this delicious garden ? As my will Concurred not to my being, it were but right And equal to reduce me to my dust, Desirous to resign and render back All I received, unable to perform " 750 Thy terms too hard, by which I was to hold The good I sought not. To the loss of that, Sufficient penalty, why hast thou added The sense of endless woes? inexplicable 729. voice. See Genesis i. 28. centre., and thus being in their 733. of all ages to succeed., in place., where, according to natu- ftll the ages that shall follow. ral laws, they should have no 735. lU fare., woe to. weight, the weight of bodies be- 736. his thanks, the thanks of ing only their tendency to the him who thus curses his ances- centre. This seems to be the tor. meaning, though it is not very 738. all fro7n me, all the curses clear, resulting to others from my sin. 748. equal, just. — reduce. Vil. Heavy though in their bring back. vlace, weighing heavily, though 751. 2'hy terms too hard. Se* lighting on him, their natural Matthew xxv. 24, 25. BookX.] paradise lost. 317 Thy justice seems ; yet, to say truth, too Lite 756 I thus contest ; then should have been refused Those terms whatever, when they were proposed : Thou didst accept them ; wilt thou enjoy the good, Tlien cavil the conditions ? And though God Made thee without thy leave, what if thy son 703 Prove disobedient, and reproved retort, Wlierefore didst tliou beget me ? I sought it not : — Wouldst thou admit for his contempt of thee That proud excuse ? Yet him not thy election, But natural necessity, begot. 766 God made thee of choice his own, and of his own To serve him ; thy reward was of his grace. Thy punishment then justly is at his will. Be it so, for I submit ; his doom is fair, That dust I am and shall to dust return : 770 O welcome hour whenever ! why delays His hand to execute what his decree Fixed on this day ? why do I overlive ? AVhy am I mocked with death, and lengthened out To deathless pain ? How gladly Avould I meet 7V6 Mortality my sentence, and be earth Insensible ! how glad would lay me down As in my mother's lap ! there I should rest And sleep secure ; his dreadful voice no more Would thunder in my ears, no fear of worse 780 To me and to my offspiring Avould torment me With cruel expectation. Yet one doubt Pursues me still, lest all I oannot die ; 757. whatever, whatever they 771. welcome hour xchencver, irere. hour welcome wheuerer it may 758. Thou. Adam here ad- arrive. iresses himself. 773. on, for ; to take place on. 759 cavil, cavil at; quarrel — over'ive,s\xv\i\f.- this day. »ith. 783. lest all I cannot die, that 764. election, choice. my whole being is not mor^. 766. of choice, by his choice. of his own, with his own gifts. 318. PARA VISE L OS T. [Book X. Lest that pure breath of life, the spirit of man Which God inspired, cannot together perish 785 With this corporeal clod ; then in the grave, Or in some other dismal place, who knoAvs But I shall die a living death ? O thought Horrid, if true ! Yet why ? it was but breath Of life that sinned : Avhat dies but what had life 790 And sin ? the body properly hath neither. All of me then shall die ; let this appease The doubt, since human reach no further knows. For though the Lord of all be infinite, Is his wrath also ? Be it, man is not so, 795 But mortal doomed. How can he exercise Wrath without end on man, whom death must end ? Can he make deathless death ? that were to make Strange contradiction, which to God himself Impossible is held, as argument 800 Of weakness, not of power. Will he draw out, For anger's sake, finite to infinite In punished man, to satisfy his rigor Satisfied never ? that Avere to extend His sentence beyond dust and Nature's law, 806 By Avhich all causes else according still To the reception of their matter act. Not to the extent of their own sphere. But say That death be not one stroke, as I supposed. Bereaving sense, but endless misery «10 From this day onward, Avhich I feel begun Both in me and without me, and so last To perpetuity — ay me ! that fear 784. breath of life. See Genesis 806. all causes else, ah othet |i. 7. causes. 793. human reach, the reach 807. the reception of their mat »f human thought. ter, what the matter on which 795. Be it, though it be ; they act is capable of receiy though his wrath be infinite. ing. 796. mortal doomed, con- 810. Bereaving, taking away temned to die by force. Book X.] PARADISE LOST. 319 Comes tliundering back Avith dreadful revolution On my defenceless head ; both death and I 815 Am found eternal, and incorporate both ; Nor I on my part single, in me all Posterity stands cursed : fair patrimony That I must leave ye, sons ! Oh, were I able To waste it all myself, and leave ye none ! 820 So disinherited, how would ye bless Me, now your curse ! Ah, why should all mankind For one man's fault thus guiltless be condemned — If guiltless ? but from me what can proceed But all corrupt, both mind and will depraved, 825 Not to do only but to will the same With me ? how can they then acquitted stand In sight of God ? Him after all disputes Forced I absolve ; all my evasions vain And reasonings, though through mazes, lead me still But to my own conviction : first and last 831 On me, me only, as the source and spring Of all corruption, all the blame lights due ; So might the wrath ! Fond wish ! couldst thou sup- port That burden, heavier than the earth to bear, 835 Than all the world much heavier, though divided With that bad woman ? Thus what thou desir'st, And what thou fear'st, alike destroys all hope Of refuge, and concludes thee miserable Beyond all past example and future, 840 To Satan only like, both crime and doom. conscience, into what abyss of fears ^nd horrors hast thou driven me ; out of which 1 find no way, from deep to deeper plunged ! " 614. revolution^ return 834. So might the wrath, 816. incorporate both, hound wjuld that the wrath might also together as in one body. light on me. 829. Forced I absolve, I am 839. concludes^ finally judges forced to absolye. 841. both, both as to. 883. due^ deserved. 320 PARADlSh LObi ^Mook X. Thus Adam to himself lamented loud 81S Through the still night, not now, as ere man fell, Wholesome and cool and mild, but with black air Accompanied, with damps and ^dreadful gloom, Which to his evil conscience represented All things with double terror : on the ground 850 Outstretched he lay, on the cohl ground, and oft Cui-sed his creation, death as oft accused Of tardy execution, since denounced The day of his offence. " Why comes not death," Said he, " with one thrice-acceptable stroke 856 To end me ? shall truth fail to keep her word. Justice divine not hasten to be just ? But death comes not at all, justice divine Mends not her slowest pace for prayers or cries. woods, O fountains, hillocks, dales, and bowers ! With other echo late I taught your shades 861 To answer, and resound far other song." Whom thus afflicted when sad Eve beheld. Desolate where she sat, approaching nigh Sofl words to his fierce passion she assayed ; 865 But her with stern regard he thus repelled : " Out of my sight, thou serpent ! that name best Befits thee with him leagued, thyself as false And hateful ; nothing wants, but that thy shape Like his, and color serpentine, may show 870 Thy inward fraud, to warn all creatures from thee Henceforth ; lest that too heavenly form, pretended To hellish falsehood, snare them. But for thee 1 had persisted happy, had not thy pride 853 since denounced, since it 869. wanfs, is wanting, had been denounced. 871. fraud, guile. 854. The day. "In the day ^12. pretended to,la.mxghe.toTQ- *hat thou eatest thereof, thou spread over. This is from th« ihalt surely die." Gen. ii. 17. Latin verb " prae-tendo," tc 862. far of'ier song. See IV. stretch before. 720-735, v. 144-208. 874. had persisted, should hay* 865. assayed, tried ; offered. continued. Book X.] PARADISE LOST. 321 And wandering vanity, when least was safe, 875 Rejected my forewarning, and disdained Not to be trusted ; longing to be seen, Though by the Devil himself, him overweening To overreach, but with the serpent meeting Fooled and beguiled ; by him thou, I by thee, 880 To trust thee from my side, imagined wise, Constant, mature, proof against all assaults, And understood not all Avas but a show Rather than solid virtue, all but a rib Crooked by nature, bent, as now appears, 886 Moi-e to the part sinister, from me drawn, Well If throAvn out as supernumerary To my just number found. Oh, why did God, Creator wise, that peopled highest Heaven With spirits mascuHne, create at last 890 This novelty on earth, this fair defect Of nature, and not fill the world at once With men as angels without feminine, Or find some other way to generate Mankind ? This mischief had not then befallen, 895 And more that shall befell ; Innumerable Disturbances on earth through female snares. And strait conjunction with this sex : for either He never shall find out fit mate, but such As some misfortune brings him, or mistake ; 900 Or whom he wishes most shall seldom gain. Through her perverseness, but shall see her gained By a far worse, or if she love, withheld By parents ; or his happiest choice too late Shall meet, already linked and wedlock-bound 905 875. xohenleoit was safe, xihen 886. «n^5fer, left. See VIII. 465 it was least safe. Sinister also means unlucky. 878. overweening, conceitedly bD9. He, the man. thinking. 901. whom, her whom . 880. by him thou, I by thee. 905. already, when be is al 8«e Genesis iii. 12, 1-3. ready. 21 S22 PARADISE LOST. [Book 3 To a fell adversary, liis hate or shame : Which infinite calamity shall cause To human life, and household peace confound." He added not, and from her turned : but Eve, Not so repulsed, with tears that ceased not flow- ing, And tresses all disordered, at his feet 9] I Fell humble, and embracing them besought His peace, and thus proceeded in her plaint : " Forsake me not thus, Adam ! witness Heaven What love sincere and reverence in my heart 915 I bear thee, and unweeting have offended, Unhappily deceived : thy suppliant I beg, and clasp thy knees ; bereave me not. Whereon I live, thy gentle looks, thy aid. Thy counsel, in this uttermost distress, 920 My only strength and stay : forlorn of thee, Whither shall I betake me, where subsist ? While yet we live, scarce one short hour perhaps, Between us two let there be peace ; both joining, As joined in injuries, one enmity 926 Against a foe by doom express assigned us, That cruel serpent. On me exercise not Thy hatred for this misery befallen. On me already lost, me than thyself More miserable ; both have sinned, but thou, 980 Against God only, I against God and thee. And to the place of judgment will return. There with my cries importune Heaven, that all The sentence, from thy head removed, may light 913. peace, pardon. 921. forlorn, deprived. QIQ. univeeting. See line 335. 92'i, 92b. joining one e7imity. 919. of thy gentle looks, on 933. importune, importunately irhich I live, or of thy aid. beseech. Book X.] PARADISE LOST. 323 On mc, sole cause to thee of all this woe ; 835 Me, me only, just object of his ire." She ended weeping, and her lowly plight, Immovable till peace obtained from fault Acknowledged and deplored, in Adam wrought Commiseration ; soon his heart relented 940 Towards her, his life so late and sole delight, Now at his feet submissive in distress. Creature so fair his reconcilement seeking. His counsel whom she had displeased, his aid : As one disarmed, his anger all he lost, 945 And thus with peaceful words upraised her soon : " Unwary, and too desirous, as before So now, of what thou know'st not, who desir'st The punishment all on thyself ; alas ! Bear thine own first, ill able to sustain 950 His full wrath, whose thou feel'st as yet least part, And my displeasure bear'st so ill. If prayei"S Could alter high decrees, I to that place Would speed before thee, and be louder heard, That on my head all might be visited, 955 Thy frailty and infirmer sex forgiven. To me committed and by me exposed. But rise ; let us no more contend, nor blame Each other, blamed enough elsewhere, but strive, In offices of love, how we may lighten 960 Each other's burden in our share of woe ; Since this day's death denounced, if aught I see, Will prove no sudden but a slow-paced evil, A long day's dying to augment our pain. And to our seed (O hapless seed !) derived." 955 938. obtained should be ob- or simply, of which. — least^hni ained. the leiist. 951. whose, of whose wrath; 953. to that place. See Une 1086 • 9t55. derived, communicated. 324 PARADISE LOST. [Book X To whom thus Eve, recovering heart, replied: " Adam, by sad experiment I know How little weiglit my words with thee can find, Fqund so erroneous ; thence by just event Found so unfortunate : nevertheless, 97^ Restored by thee, vile as I am, to place Of new acceptance, hopeful to regain Thy love, the sole contentment of my heart, Living or dying, from thee I will not hide What thoughts in my uncpilet breast are risen, 976 Tending to some relief of our extremes, Or end, though shaip and sad, yet tolerable, As in our evils, and of easier choice. If care of our descent perplex us most, Which must be born to certain woe, devoured 980 By Death at last (and miserable it is To be to others cause of misery. Our own begotten, and of our loins to bring Into this cursed world a woful race, That after wretched life must be at last 986 Food for so foul a monster), in thy power It lies, yet ere conception, to prevent The race unblest, to being yet unbegot. Childless thou art, childless remain : so Death Shall be deceived his glut, and with us two 900 Be forced to satisfy his ravenous maw. But if thou judge it hard and difficult, Conversing, looking, loving, to abstain From love's due rites, nuptial eaibraces sweet, And with desire to languish without hope, aee Before the present object languishing 967. experiment, experience. 979. descent, descendants ; po* 969. event, conseiiuence. terity. 976. extremes, extreme misery. 990. deceived his glut, cheated 978. Considering our evils, and of his fill. Bftdier to choose than the endur- 993. Conversing. See V III. 41& uice of our woes 8ooK X.] PARADISE LOST. 325 With like desire, which would be misery And torment less than none of what we dread ; Then, both ourselves and seed at once to free From what we fear for both, let as make shoit, 10(v^ Let us seek Death, or, he not found, supply With our own hands his office on ourselves. Why stand we longer shivering under fears That show no end but death, and have the power, Of many ways to die the shortest choosing, 1005 Destruction with destruction to destroy ? " She ended here, or vehement despair Broke off' the rest ; so much of death her thoughts Had entertained as dyed her cheeks with pale. But Adam, with such counsel nothing swayed, lOlO To better hopes his more attentive mind Laboring had raised, and thus to Eve replied : " Eve, thy contempt of life and pleasure seems To argue in thee something more sublime And excellent than what thy mind contemns ; 1015 But self-destruction therefore sought refutes That excellence thought in thee, and impUes Not thy contempt, but anguish and regret For loss of life and pleasure overloved. Or if thou covet death as utmost end loao Of misery, so thinking to evade The penalty pronounced, doubt not but God Hath wiselier armed his vengeful ire than so To be forestalled ; much more I fear lest death So snatched will not exempt us from the pain 1021 We are by doom to pay ; rather such acts Of contumacy will provoke the Highest To make death in us live. Then let us seek lOO'l. and have, while we have 1024. forestallerJ . anticipated 1009. paUf paleness. 1026. oy doom, doomed. 326 PARADISE LOST. [Book X Some safer resolution, which methlnks I have in view, calling to mind with heed 1Q% Part of our sentence, that thy seed shall bruise The serpent's head ; piteous amends ! unless Be meant, whom I conjecture, our grand foe Satan, who in the serpent hath contrived Against us this deceit : to crush his head 1038 AVould be revenge indeed ; which will be lost By death brought on ourselves, or childless days Resolved as thou proposest ; so ou^r foe Shall scape his punishment ordained, and wc Instead shall double ours upon our heads. 1040 No more be mentioned then of violence Against ourselves, and wilful barrenness, That cuts us off from hope, and savors only Rancor and pride, impatience and despite. Reluctance against God and his just yoke 1045 Laid on our necks. Remember with what mild And gracious temper he both heard and judged, Without wrath or reviling ; we expected Immediate dissolution, which we thought Was meant by death that day, when lo, to thee Pains only in child-bearing were foretold, 1051 And bringing forth, soon recompensed with joy, Fruit of thy womb : on me the curse aslope Glanced on the ground ; with labor I must earn My bread ; what harm ? idleness had been worse ; My labor will sustain me : and, lest cold 1056 Or heat should injure us, his timely care Hath unbesought provided, and his hands Clothed us unworthy, pitying while he judged. How much more, if we pray him, will his ear 106C Be open, and his heart to pity incline, And teach us further by what means to shun 1038. Reiolved, resolved or de- 1052. recompensed, to be >» lermined on compensed. Book X.] PARADISE LOST. 327 rhe inclement seasons, rain, ice, hail, and snow, Which now the sky with various face begins To show us in this mountain, while the winds 1065 Blow moist and keen, shattering the graceful locks Of these fair spreading trees ; Avhich bids us seek Some better shroud, some better warmth to cherish Our limbs benumbed, ere this diurnal star Leave cold the night ; how we his gathered beams Reflected may with matter sere foment, 1071 Or by collision of two bodies grind The air attrite to fire, as late the clouds Justling or pushed Avith winds rude in their shock Tine the slant lightning, Avhose thwart flame driven down 1076 Kind.es the gummy bark of fir or pine, And sends a comfortable heat from far, Which might supply the sun. Such fire to use. And what may else be remedy or cure To evils which our own misdeeds have wrought, 1080 He Avill instruct us praying and of grace Beseeching him, so as we need not fear To pass commodiously this life, sustained By him with many comforts, till we end In dust, our final rest and native home. 1085 What better can we do, than to the place Repairing where he judged us prostrate fall Before him reverent, and there confess Humbly our faults, and pardon beg, with tears Watering the ground, and with our sighs the air Frequenting, sent from hearts contrite, in sign 1091 1039. this diurnal star, the 1078. supply, serve instead of. Bun. 1081. o/ grace, for favor. 1070. how, bids us seek how. 1082. as, that. 1071. matter sere, dry sub- 1083. To pass, that we shall tance. — fomeiit, cherish] feed, not Tpuss. — commo/Jiously, with 1073. attrite, rubbed. comfort or convenience. 1075. Tine, kindle. — thwart, 1091. frequenting, filing ; tross. crowding. 328 PARADISE LOST. [Cook X. Of sorrow unfeigned and humiliation meek ? Undoubtedly he will relent and turn From his displeasure, in whose look serene, When angry most he seemed and most severe, 1C9« What else but favor, grace, and mercy shone ? " So spake our father penitent, nor Eve Felt less remorse : they forthwith to the place Repairing where he judged them prostrate fell Before him reverent, and both confessed liao Humbly their faults, and pardon begged, with tears Watering the ground, and with their sighs the air Frequenting, sent from hearts contrite, in sign Of sorrow unfeigned and humiliation meek. BOOK XI. THE ARGUMENT. The Son of God presents to his Father the prayers of our first parents now repenting, and intercedes for them. God accepts t^em, but declares that they must no longer abide in Paradise : sends Michael with a band of Cherubim to dispossess them ; but first to reveal to Adam future things. Michael's coming down. Adam shows to Eve certain ominous signs ; he discerns Michael's approach, goes out to meet him : the Angel denounces their departure. Eve's lamentation. Adam pleads, but submits. The Angel leads him up to a high hill, sets before him in vision what shall happen till the flood. Thus they in lowliest plight repentant stood Praying ; for from the mercy-seat above Prevenient grace descending had removed The stony from their hearts, and made new flesh Regenerate grow instead, that sighs now breathed 5 Unutterable, which the spirit of prayer Inspired, and winged for Heaven with speedier flight Than loudest oratory : yet their port Not of mean suitors, nor important less Seemed their petition, than when the ancient pair 10 In fables old, less ancient yet than these, 3. Prevenient, coming before ; 11-14. TThen Jupiter (Zeus) anticipating. had resolved to destroy the race 4. The stony. " I will take of men. Deucalion and his wife the stony heart out of their flesh, P/rrha alone were spared. A and will give them a heart ol flood swept away all ofher mor- flesh." Ezekiel xi. 19. fails, and when the waters sub- 6. Unutterable. See Romans sided Deucalion offered sacrifice, viii. 26. and sought to learn from the 8. oratory, probably, uttered goddess Themis how the race prayer. — port, bearing. mi^ht be restored. 9. Not^ was not that 330 PARADISE LOST. [Book Xl Deucalion and cbaste Pyrrha, to restore The race of mankind drowned, before the shrine Of Themis stood devout. To Heaven their prayers Flew up, nor missed the way by envious winds Ifi Blown vagabond or frustrate : in they passed Dimensionless through heavenly doors ; then clad With incense, where the gcldeii altar fumed, By their great Intercessor, came in sight Before the Father's throne : them the glad Son SO Presenting, thus to intercede began : " See, Father, what first fruits on earth are sprung From thy implanted grace in man, these sighs And prayers, which in this golden censer, mixed With incense, I thy priest before thee bring, 25 Fruits of more pleasing savor from thy seed Sown with contrition in his heart, than those Which, his own hand manuring, all the trees Of Paradise could have produced, ere fallen From innocence. Now therefore bend thine ear 30 To supplication, hear his sighs though mute ; Unskilful with what words to pray, let me Interpret for him, me his advocate And propitiation ; all his works on me. Good or not good, ingraft ; my merit those 85 Shall perfect, and for these my death shall pay. Accept me, and in me from these receive 16. fag-aiojiv/, to and fro ; wan- SoSi. his arJ vacate and prO' dering. — frustrate, frustrated; pitiation. " And if any man sin, Daade vain. we have an advocate with the 17. Dimensionless, immate- Father, Jesus Christ the right- rial ; not having dimensions like eous ; and he is the propitiation >natter. for our sins ; and not for oura 24. golden altar. " The gold- only, but also for the sins of th» en altar which was before the whole world." 1 John ii. 1, 2. throne." See Revelation viii. 35. those, his good works. 3 4. ^'j- these, his works not good. 28 manuring. See IV. 628 Zl. these. See lines 20, 23, 31. Book XI.] PARADISE LOST. 331 The smell of peace toward mankind ; let him live Before thee reconciled, at least his days Nuaibered, though sad, till death, his doom (which I To mitigate thus plead, not to reverse), 41 To better life shall yield him, where with me All my redeemed may dwell in joy and bliss, Made one with me, as I with thee am one." To whom the Father, without cloud, serene : 4^ " All thy request for man, accepted Son, Obtain ; all thy request Avas my decree. But longer in that Paradise to dwell. The law I gave to Nature him forbids : Those pure immortal elements, that know M No gross, no unharmonious mixture foul, Eject him tainted now and purge him off As a distemper, gross to air as gross. And mortal food, as may dispose him best For dissolution wrought by sin, that first bb Distempered all things, and of incorrupt Corrupted. I at first with two fair gifts Created him endowed, Avith happiness And immortality ; that fondly lost. This other served but to eternize woe, 60 Till I provided death ; so death becomes His final remedy, and after life. Tried in sharp tribulation and refined By faith and faithful Avorks, to second life Waked in the renovation of the just, 6S Resigns him up with heaven and earth renewed. 39. hit days, through all his 50. Those, such as were fbuiu] days. in Paradise. 42. unthme. " I will that they 54. And^ and to. — as, such also whom thou hast given me as. be with me where I am." John 56, 57. of incorrupt corrupted Kvii. 24. turned from incorrupt to cor>« 44. Made one. See John xvii. rupt. 21. 51* fondly, foolishly. 47. vuj decree, what I had be- 66. Iieni-en and earth renewed fore decreed. See X. 638, 639. 332 PARADISE LOST. [Book Xl. But let us call to synod all the blest Through Heaven's wide bounds ; from them I will not hide My judgments, how with mankind I proceed, As how with peccant angels late they saw, 70 And in their state, though firm, stood more con- firmed." He ended, and the Son gave signal high To the bright minister that watched ; he blew His trumpet, heard in Oreb since perhaps When God descended, and perhaps once more 76 To sound at general doom. The angelic blast Filled all the regions : fi-om their blissful bowers Of amarantine shade, fountain or spring. By the waters of life, where'er they sat In fellowships of joy, the sons of light 80 Hasted, resorting to the summons high, And took their seats ; till from his throne supreme The Almighty thus pronounced his sovran will : " O sons, like one of us Man is become To know both good and evil, since his taste 86 Of that defended fruit ; but let him boast His knowledge of good lost and evil got. Happier had it sufficed him to have known Good by itself, and evil not at all. He sorrows now, repents, and prays contrite, dO My motions in him ; longer than they move, 70. peccant, sinning. — late 78. amarantine shade. See HI. theysaiv. See VI. 831-877. 353-361. 73. minister^ servant; chief 79. the waters of life. "And attendant. See Exodus xxiv. 13. he shewed me a pure river ol Matthew xx. 26. water of life, clear as crystal, 74. heard in Oreb. See Exo- proceeding out of the throne of dus xix. 19. Oreb., Iloreb or God and the Lamb." Revelation Sinai. — pfHiaps, perhaps the xxii. 1. Bame. 86. defended, forbidden. 75. once more. "For the 91. longer than they mact trumpet shall sound." 1 Cor- when they cease to move, mthians xv. 52. Book XL] PARADISE LOST. 388 His heart I know, how variable and vain Self-left. Lest therefore his now bolder hand Reach also of the Tree of Life, and eat, And live for ever, dream at least to live 95 For ever, to remove him I decree, And send him from the garden forth to till The ground whence he was taken, fitter soil. Michael, this my behest have thou in charge ; Take to thee from among the Cherubim 100 Thy choice of flaming warriors, lest the Fiend, Or in behalf of man, or to invade Vacant possession, some new trouble raise : Haste thee, and from the Paradise of God Without remorse drive out the sinful pair, 106 From hallowed ground the unholy, and denounce To them and to their progeny from thence Perpetual banishment. Yet, lest they faint At the sad sentence rigorously urged (For I behold them softened and with tears iiO Bewailing their excess), all terror hide. If patiently thy bidding they obey, Dismiss them not disconsolate; reveal To Adam what shall come in future days, As I shall thee enlighten ; intermix 115 My covenant in the woman's seed renewed : So send them forth, though sorrowing yet in peace ; And on the east side of the garden place, Where entrance up from Eden easiest climbs. Cherubic watch, and of a sword the flame lao Wide waving, all approach far oS" to fright, 93. Self-left^ left to itself. 111. excess, transgression. 94. Tree of Life. See Genesis 115. intermix, with the sad iii. 22. tidings mingle the joyful as8U< 97. send him. See Genesis iii. ranee of. 23. 120. Cherubic watch. See Gen- 103 Or, either. esis iii. 24 105. remorse, compunction ; t)ity. 334 PARADISE LOST. [Book Xi And gnard all passage to the Tree of Life ; Lest Paradise a receptacle prove To spirits foul, and all my trees tlieir prey, 121 With whose stolen fruit man once more to delude." He ceased ; and the archangelic pow^r prepared For swift descent, with him the cohort bright Of watchful Cherubim ; four foces each Had, like a double Janus, all their shape Spangled with eyes, more numerous than those 130 Of Argus, and more wakeful than to drowse, Charmed with Arcadian pipe, the pastoral reed Of Hermes, or his opiate rod. Meanwhile, To re-salute the world with sacred light, Leucothea waked, and with fresh dews embalmed 136 The earth, when Adam and first matron Eve Had ended now their orisons, and found Strength added from above, new hope to spring Out of despair, joy, but with fear yet linked ; Which thus to Eve his welcome words renewed ; 140 " Eve, easily may faith admit that all The good which we enjoy from Heaven descends ; But that from us aught should ascend to Heaven So prevalent as to concern the mind 127. cohort^ band. sweet sounds of his flute or 128. four faces. "Every one Arcadian pipe., and touched him had four faces apiece." Ezekiel with his opiate rod. — Arcadian, X. 21. belonging to Arcadia, a country 129. Jam/s was a Roman deity, of shephei-ds, by whom Hermes commonly represented with two was especially worshipped. — faces. pastoral, belonging to shep- 130. with eyes. See Ezekiel x. herds. — opiate, sleep-giving. 12. 135. Leucothea, signifying in 131-133. Argus was said to Greek White-goddess, was a god- have had a hundred eyes, lie dess of the sea. Milton here was set by Ilera (Juno) to guard uses the name for the goddess of lo, whom she had metamor- the dawn. phosed into a cow. But Herines 144. ^jrevaZeni, prevailing ; effl (Mercury) slew him, having cacious. bulled him to sleep with the Book XL] PARADISE LOST. 335 Of God higb-blest, or to incline his will, liB Hard to belief may seem ; yet this will prayer, Or one short sigh of human breath, upborne Even to the seat of God For since I sought By prayer the offended Deity to appease, Kneeled and before him humbled all my heart, 160 Methought I saAv him placable and mild, Bending his ear ; persuasion in me grew That I was heard Avith favor ; peace returned Home to my breast, and to my memory His promise that thy seed shall bruise our foe ; 156 Which, then not minded in dismay, yet now Assures me that the bitterness of death Is past, and we shall live. Whence hail to thee, Eve rightly called, mother of all mankind. Mother of all things living, since by thee 16C Man is to live, and all things live for man ! " To whom thus Eve with sad demeanor meek : " 111 worthy I such title should belong To me transgressor, who, for thee ordained A help, became thy snare ; to me reproach 166 Rather belongs, distrust and all dispraise : But infinite in pardon was my Judge, That I, who first brought death on all, am graced The source of life ; next favorable thou. Who highly thus to entitle me vouchsaf'st, 170 Far other name deserving. But the field To labor calls us now with sweat imposed Though after sleepless night ; for see, the morn, All unconcerned with our unrest, begins 146. this will prayer, prayer call3d his wife's name Eve, !»• •rill do this. cause she was the mother of all 157. " And Agag said, Surelj living." Genesis iii. 20. Bie bitterness of death is past." l(jS. am graced, am so favored 1 Samuel xv. 32. as to be. 159. rightly callid. "And Adam 172. imposed, laid upon ii8- 336 PARADISE LOST. [Book XI. Her rosy progress smiling. Let us forth, 176 I never from thy side henceforth to stray, Where'er our day's work lies, though now enjoined Laborious, till day droop ; while here we dwell, What can be toilsome in these pleasant walks ? Here let us live, though in fallen state, content." 180 So spake, so wished much-humbled Eve, but Fate Subscribed not ; Nature first gave signs, impressed On bird, beast, air, air suddenly eclipsed After short blush of morn ; nigh in her sight The bird of Jove, stooped from his aery tour, 186 Two birds of gayest plume before him drove : DoAvn from a hill tlie beast that reigns in woods, First hunter then, pursued a gentle brace. Goodliest of all the forest, hart and hind ; Direct to the eastern gate was bent their flight. 190 Adam observed, and, with his eye the chase Pursuing, not unmoved to Eve thus spake : " O Eve, some further change awaits us nigh, Which Heaven by these mute signs in Nature showo, Forerunners of his purpose, or to warn 195 Us haply too secure of our discharge From penalty, because from death released Some days ; how long, and what till then our life, Who knows, or more than this, that we are dust, And thither must return and be no more? 200 Why else this double object in our sight Of flight, pursued in the air and o'er the ground, 182. Subscribed, assented ; 187. the beast that reigns, th« Hgreed. lion, king of beasts. 183. ed/pserf, become dark with 196. secure, ceTtain. eloiids. 198. Some days, for some days 185. The bird of Jove, the 199. or more than this, or whf eagle. — stooped, haying stooped, knows more than this. — tour, wheel. Or it may mean tower; the height to which he towers. Boos XI.] PARADISE LOST. 337 One way the self-same hour ? TVHiy in the east Darkness ere day's mid-course, and morning light More orient in yon "western cloud, that draws 306 O'er the blue firmament a radiant white, And slow descends with something heavenly fraught ? " He erred not, for by this the heavenly bands Down from a sky of jasper lighted now Tn Paradise, and on a hill made halt ; 210 A glorious apparition, had not doubt And carnal fear that day dimmed Adam's eye. Not that more glorious, when the angels met Jacob in Mahana'im, where he saw The field pavilioned with his guardians briglit ; 216 Nor that which on the flaming mount appeared In Dothan, covered with a camp of fire, Against the SjTian king, who, to surprise One man, assassin-like had levied war, War unproclaimed. The princely Ilierarch 220 In their bright stand there left his powers to seize Possession of the garden ; he alone, To find where Adam sheltered, took his way, Not unperceived of Adam, who to Eve, While the great visitant approached, thus spake : 225 " Eve, now expect great tidings, which perhaps Of us will soon determine, or impose New laws to be observed ; for I descry, From yonder blazing cloud that veils the hill, 203. TF^jy, why .is there. 213-215. See Genesis xxxii.l, •4, 205. More orinit, more bright 216-220. See 2 Kings yi. 8-17. than the rising ught. — Hierarck. See line 99. 208. by this, by this time. 221. statttl, station ; or, In theit 209. a sky of jasper. •' Her bright stand, standing in theil light was like unto u stone most brightness. precious, even like a jasper stone, 223. shelter ed^ha^di taken shel- clear as crystal." Revelation ter. txi- 11- 227. determine^ decide the £sit8 211. apparition^ appearance. 22 338 PARADISE LOST. [Book XI. One of the heavenly host, and by h's gait aso None of the meanest, some great potentate, Or of the Thrones above, such majesty Invests hhn coming ; yet not terrible That I should fear, nor sociably mild As Raphael that I should much confide ; 235 But solemn and sublime, whom not to offend, With reverence I must meet, and thou retire." He ended ; and the Archangel soon drew nigli, Not in his shape celestial, but as man Clad to meet man ; over his lucid arms 240 A military vest of purple flowed, Livelier than Meliboean, or the grain Of Sarra, worn by kings and heroes old In time of truce ; Iris had dipped the woof : His starry helm unbuckled showed him prime 245 In manhood where youth ended ; by his side, As in a glistering zodiac, hung the sword, Satan's dire dread, and in his hand the spear. Adam bowed Ioav ; he kingly from his state Inclined not, but his coming thus declared : 250 " Adam, Heaven's high behest no preface needs : Sufficient that thy prayers are heard, and death, Then due by sentence when thou didst transgress, Defeated of his seizure, many days Given thee of grace, wherein thou may'st repent, 265 232. Or of, or one of. 247. In a belt gUstering lik« 233. Invests, clothes. the Zodiac. 235. As Raphael. See V. 22 : 248. Satan's dire dread. See VII. 40, 41. VI. 320-328. • 242. Melibaan. Melibnea, a 249. state, stateliness ; stately town in Thessaly, was celebrated bearing. ft)r its purple dye. — ^mm, dye 250. inclined, hent. n color. See V. 285. 254. Defeated, is defeated, cli» 243. Sarra, the ambient Tyre, appointed. — se/suT-e, possession »lso famous for its purple. _ 255. Given, are given. 244. Iris, the personification of Ihe rainbow. booKXI.] PARADISE LOST. 339 And one bad act with many deeds well done May'st cover. Well may then thy Lord appeased Redeem thee quite from death's rapacious claim ; But longer in this Pciradlse to dwell Permits not ; to remove thee I am come, 260 And send thee fi'om the garden forth, to till The ground whence thou wast taken, fitter soil." He added not, for Adam at the news Heart-struck with chilling gripe of sorrow stood That all his senses bound ; Eve, who unseen 266 Yet all had heard, with audible lament Discovered soon the place of her retire : " unexpected stroke, worse than of death ! Must I thus leave thee, Paradise ? thus leave Thee, native soil, these happy walks and shades, 270 Fit haunt of gods, where I had hope to spend, Quiet though sad, the respite of that day That must be mortal to us both ? O flowers, Q^hat never will in other climate grow, My early visitation and my last 278 At even, which I bred up with tender hand From the first opening bud and gave ye names, Who now shall rear ye to the sun, or rank Your tribes, and water from the ambrosial fount ? Thee lastly, nuptial bower, by me adorned 2S0 With what to sight or smell was sweet, from thee How shall I part, and whither wander down [nto a lower world, to this obscure And wild ? How shall we breathe in other air Less pure, accustomed to immortal fruits ? " 286 260. Permits, he, thy Lord, 272. respite, delay ; postpone- permiis. ment. 267. Discovered. See I. 64. — 283. to this, compared with retire, retirement ; retreat. this. 340 PARADISE LOST. [Book II WLom thus the angel interrupted mild : ^ Lament not, Eve, but patiently resign What justly thou hast lost ; nor set thy heart, Thus over-fond, on that ^yhich is not thine : Tiiy going is not lonely ; with thee goes 290 Thy husband ; him to follow thou art bound ; Where he abides, think there thy native soil." Adam by this from the cold sudden damp Recovering, and his scattered spirits returned, To Michael thus his humble words addressed : 295 " Celestial ! whether among the Thrones, or named Of them the highest, for such of shape may seem Prince above princes, gently hast thou told Thy message, which might else in telling wound And in performing end us ; what besides 300 Of sorrow and dejection and despair Our frailty can sustain, thy tidings bring. Departure from this happy place, our sweet Recess, and only consolation left, Familiar to our eyes, all places else 805 Inhospitable appear and desolate, Nor knowing us nor known : and if by prayer Incessant I could hope to change the will Of him who all things can, I would not cease To weary him with my assiduous cries. 810 But prayer against his absolute decree No more avails than breath against the wind, Blown stifling back on him that breathes it forth : n^erefore to his ereat bidding I submit. 292. See Ruth I. IP, 17. 297. such of shape, one of such 293. by this, by this time. shape. 294. returned, having returned ; 305. Perhaps a semicolon would being restored. be better than the comma. 296. whether, whether thou 307. Nor, neither. Mi. 309. all things can, has aO power. Book XI.] PARADISE LOST. 341 This most afflicts me, that departing hence 816 As from his face I shall be hid, deprived His blessed countenance ; here I coidd freqaent ^ith worship place by place where he vouchsafed Presence divine, and to my sons relate, On this mount he appeared, under this tree 820 Stood visible, among these pines his voice I heard, here with him at this fountain talked : * So many grateful altars I would rear Of grassy turf, and pile up every stone Of lustre fi'om the brook, in memory 325 Or monument to ages, and thereon Offer sweet-smelling gums, and fruits, and flowers. In yonder netlier world where shall I seek His bright appearances, or footstep trace ? For thougli I fled him angry, yet, recalled 8S) To life prolonged and promised race, I now Gladly behold though but his utmost skirts Of glory, and far off his steps adore." To whom thus Michael with rescard beni2:n ; " Adam, thou know'st Heaven his, and all the earth, Not this rock only ; his omnipresence fills 338 Land, sea, and air, and every kind that lives, Fomented by his virtual power and warmed : All the earth he gave thee to possess and rule. No despicable gift ; surmise not then 340 His presence to these narrow bounds confined Of Paradise or Eden : this had been Perhaps thy capital seat, from whence had spread All generations, and had hither come. From all the ends of thf earth, to celebrate 345 316. deprived, deprived of. 3oo. Heaven his, that Heaven 321. his voice. See Genesis is his. »i- 8. 338. Fomented. See IV. 669 ^IZ. grateful altars. See Gen- — r/Vfua/ pon'^r, potent energy. *i8 xii. 7. 342. had, might or would hav» 825. Of lustre, shining. — m ^^. celebrate. See II. 241. memory. See Joshua iv. 19-24 342 PARADISE LOST. [Book XL And reverence thee their great progenitor. But this preeminence thou hast lost, buought down To dwell on even ground now with thy sons. Yet doubt not but in valley and in plain God is as here, and will be found alike 35(1 Present, and of his presence many a sign Still following thee, still compassing thee round With goodness and paternal love, his face Express, and of his steps the track divine. Which that thou may'st believe, and be confirmed 365 Ere thou from hence depart, know I am sent To show thee what shall come in future days To thee and to thy offspring ; good with bad Expect to hear, supernal grace contending With sinfulness of men ; thereby to learn 3^ True patience, and to temper joy with fear And pious sorrow, equally inured By moderation either state to bear. Prosperous or adverse : so shalt thou lead Safest thy life, and best prepared endure 865 Thy mortal passage when it comes. Ascend This hill ; let Eve (for I have drenched her eyes) Here sleep below, while thou to foresight wak'st ; A.S once thou slept'st, while she to life was formed. To whom thus Adam gratefully replied : 370 '' Ascend, I follow thee, safe guide, the path Thou lead'st me, and to the hand of Heaven sub- mit, However chastening ; to the evil turn My obvious breast, arming to overcome By suffering, and earn rest from labor won, 375 352. coiyipassing. '' With favor 368. foresight, the sight of rilt thou compass him as with a what shall come in future days. shield." Psalm t. 12. 374. obvious, meeting in th# 354. Express, will express way ; opposing in front. See VI 867. drenched, steeped. 69. — arming, arming myself. Book XL] PARADISE LOST. 34S If so I may attain." So both ascend [n the visions of God. It was a hill, Of Paradise the highest, from whose top The hemisphere of earth in clearest ken 87S Stretched out to the amplest reach of prospect lay. Not higher that hill, or wider looking round, Whereon, for dilferent cause, the Tempter set Our second Adam in the wilderness. To show him all earth's kingdoms and their glory. His eye might there command wherever stood 386 City of old or modern fame, the seat Of mightiest empire, from the destined walls Of Cambalu, seat of Cathaian Can, And Samarchand by Oxus, Temir's throne, To Paqidn of SInaean kings ; and thence 880 To Agra and Labor of Great Mogul, Down to the golden Chersonese ; or where The Persian in Ecbatan sat, or since In Hispahan, or where the Russian Ksar 377. " In the visions of God conqueror, who extended his do- brought he me into the land of minions over the -westem and Israel, and set me upon a very southwestern parts of Asia, high mountain." Ezekiel xl. 2. 3d0. Paquin. Ft-kin.— Sinr^an 379. ken, view. here means Chinese. The Sinae 381. tJiat hill. See Matthew svere the easternmost people of ly. 8. Asia, as known to the ancients. '383. Our second Adam. See 391. Agra and Lnhor (Lahore) 1 Corinthians xv. 45. are cities in the north of Hindos- .385. wherever^ every place in tan. The latter, situated in the which. district of the Puujaub, was of 387. destined, appointed to be great extent in the times of the hereafter. Great Mosul, a name given to 388. Cambalu was reported to the descendants of the Mongul be the chief city of Cathav. — conqueror who established an Cathakh.1. See X. 293. — Can, empire in India in the sixteenth Khan. century. 389. Samarchand is a city of 392. the golden Chersonese, the Independent Tartary, situated peninsula of Malacca. »ast of the river Oxus, but not 393. Ecbatan, or Ecbatana, aear to it. It was formerly a was a great city of ancient Per- place of great importance, and sia, in which was a magnificent Ui the fourteenth century was palace, the summer residence of TV/»;V'\ throne, the capital of the Persi.an kings. 'J imour or Tamerlane, a great 394. Hispahan, Ispahan 344 PARADISE LOST. [Book XI In Mosco, or the Sultan in Bizance, 89fi Turcliestan-born ; nor could his eye not ken The empire of Negus, to his utmost port Ercoco, and the less maritime kings, Mombaza and Quiloa and Melind, And Sofala, thought Ophir, to the realm 400 Of Congo, and Angola farthest south ; Or thence from Niger flood to Atlas mount, The kingdoms of Alinansor, Fez and Sus, Morocco and Algiers and Tremisen ; On Europe thence, and where Rome was to sway 405 The world : in spirit perhaps he also saw Rich Mexico the seat of Montezume, Ajid Cusco in Peru, the richer seat Of Atabalipa, and yet unspoiled Guiana, whose great city Geryon's sons 410 395. Mosco, Moscow, formerly the capital of the Muscovite or Russian Empire, and the seat of the Czar. — Bizance, Byzantium, now Constantinople 896. Turchestan - born, de- scended from the natives of Turchestan, or Turkestan, a province of Central Asia. — nni could his eye not ken, and his eye could ken. See I. 335. 397. T/ie empire of Negus, Abyssinia, the ancient Ethiopia, lying west of the Red Sea. In the Ethiopian language, Negus signifies king. — his, its. 398. Ercoco, Erocco, or Arkeeko, a port on the Red Sea. — the less maritime kings, the maritime kings (those whose dominions lay along the coast) who were less than the Negus, or inferior in power to him. 399. These seaports are on the eastern coast of Africa. — Melind^ Melinda or Melinde. 400. thought Ophir. It has keen conjectured that Sofala is the 0/ihir of Scripture, whence gold and precious stones were Srought to Solomon. See 1 Kings t 11 401. Congo and Angola are on the western coast of Africa. An- gola is south of Congo. 402. Niger food, the river Niger. — Atlas mount, the chain of mountains on the south of the Bai-bary States. 403. 404. Tke kingdoms of Almnnsor were in the north- western and northern part of Africa. Morocco and Fez are on the -western or Atlantic, while Sus (or Susa) and Algiers, ai-e on or near the northern or Mediter- ranean coast. 404. Tremisen was between Tunis and Morocco. 407 Montezume, Montezuma, who reigned in Mexico at the time that it was invaded by the Spaniards under Cortez. 408. Cusco was the capital of Peru under the Incas, or native kings. 409. Atabalipa was the last of the Incas, and was conquered by Pizarro. — yet unspoiled, not ye* spoiled or robbed of its riches. 410. Geryon^s sons, the Spaa iards. Geryon was a monster, slain by Hercules after he had crossed the straits which sepa Book XL] PARADISE LOST. 345 Call El Dorado. But to nobler sights Michael from Adam's eyes the film removed, Which that false fruit tliat promised clearer sight Had bred ; then purged with euphrasy and rue The visual nerve (for he had much to see), 4U A.nd from the "well of life three drops instilled. So deep the power of these ingredients pierced, Even to the inmost seat of mental sight, That Adam, now enforced to close his eyes. Sunk down, and all his spirits became intranced ; 420 But him the gentle angel by the hand Soon raised, and his attention thus recalled : " Adam, now ope thine eyes, and first behold The effects which thy original crime hath Avrought In some to spring from thee, who never touched 425 The excepted tree, nor with the snake conspired, Nor sinned thy sin, yet from that sin derive Corruption to bring forth more violent deeds.'' His eyes he opened, and beheld a field, Part arable and tilth, whereon were sheaves 430 New reaped, the other part sheep-walks and folds ; In the midst an altar as the landmark stood, Rustic, of grassy sord ; thither anon A sweaty reaper from his tillage brought First-fruits, the green ear and the yellow sheaf 435 Uncalled, as came to hand ; a shepherd next, rate Africa from Spain, in or 426. The excepted tree. See aear which country Geryon is Gsnesis ii. IS, 17. (abled to have reigned. 430 ,.iUh, tilled ground 411. El Dorado (the Gilded or 4-33. snrd, sward. Golden), the great city always 435. First-fruits. "And in lought in vain. process of time it came to pass 413. that false fruit. See Gen- that Cain brought of the fruit of Bsis iii. 6. the ground an otTering unto tlw 414. euphrasi/, the plant called Lord." Genesis iv. 3. eye-bright. This, as well as the 43)3-447. See Genesis iv. 4-8 herb rue, was formerly suppo.sed to benefit the sight. 546 PARADISE LOST. [BookXX More meek, came with the firstlings of his flock Choicest and best ; then sacrificing laid The inwards and their fat with incense strewed On the cleft wood, and all due rites performed. 44C His offering soon propitious fire from heaven Consumed with nimble glance and grateful steam ; The other's not, for his wiis not sincere ; Whereat he inly raged, and as they talked Smote him into the midriff with a stone 445 That beat out life ; he fell, and deadly pale Groaned out his soul with gushing blood effused. Much at that sight was Adam in his heart Dismayed, and thus in haste to the angel cried : " O teacher, some great mischief hath befallen 450 To that meek man, who well had sacrificed ; — Is piety thus and pure devotion paid ? " To whom Michael thus, he also moved, replied : " These two are brethren, Adam, and to come Out of thy loins ; the unjust the just hath slain, 455 For envy that his brother's offering found From Heaven acceptance ; but the bloody fact Will be avenged, and the other's faith approved Lose no reward, though here thou see him die, Rolling in dust and gore." To which our sire r 460 " Alas, both for the deed and for the cause I But have I now seen death ? Is this the way I must return to native dust ? O sight Of terror, foul and ugly to behold. Horrid to think, how horrible to feel ! " 465 To whom thus Michael : " Death thou hast seen 443. not^ it consumed not. 453. moved, affected. 452. paid, repaid. 457. fact, deed. Book XI. J PARADISE LOST. 847 In bis firet shape on man ; but many shapes Of death, and many are the ways that lead To his grim cave, all dismal ; yet to sense More terrible at the entrance than within. 470 Some, as thou saw'st, by violent stroke shall die, By fire, flood, famine ; by intemperance more In meats and drinks, which on the earth shall bring Diseases dire, of which a monstrous crew Before thee shall appear ; that thou may'st know 475 What misery the inabstinence of Eve Shall bring on men." Immediately a place Before his eyes appeared, sad, noisome, dark ; A lazar-house it seemed, wherein were laid Numbei^ of all diseased, all maladies 480 Of ghastly spasm or racking torture, qualms Of heart- sick agony, all feverous kinds. Convulsions, epilepsies, fierce catai-rhs, Intestine stone and ulcer, colic pangs. Demoniac phrenzy, moping melancholy, 485 And moon-struck madness, pining atrophy. Marasmus, and wide-wasting pestilence. Dropsies, and asthmas, and joint-racking rheums. Dire was the tossing, deep the groans; Despair Tended the sick, busiest from couch to couch ; 19(? And over them triumphant Death his dart Shook, but delayed to strike, though oft invoked With vows, as their chief good and final hope. Sight so deform what heart of rock could lon^ Dry-eyed behold ? Adam could not, but wept, 495 Though not of woman born ; compassion quelled 467. many shapes, many are 4S5. phrenzy, frenzy. ttie shapes. 4S7. 3Iaras}nus, a wasting 476. inabstinence, indulgence away, of appetite; excess. 4S8. r/i I^i. senibling a beak. 732. large, large store ; largely. 747. all dwellings else, all othflf 740. their, of the clouds. dwellings. Book XL] PARADISE LOST. 357 All left in one small bottom swum imbarked. Flow (liil'st thou grieve then, Adam, to behold The end of all thy ofTspring, end so sad, 755 Depopulation ! thee another flood, Of teai-s and sorrow a flood, thee also drowned, And sunk thee as thy sons ; till gently reared By the angel, on thy feet thou stood'st at last, Though comfortless, as when a father mourns 76^ His children, all in view destroyed at once ; And scarce to the angel utteredst thus thy plaint : , " O visions ill foreseen ! better had I Lived ignorant of future, so had borne My part of evil only, each day's lot 765 Enough to bear ; those now, that were dispensed The burden of many ages, on me light At once, by my foreknowledge gaining birth Abortive, to torment me ere their being With thought that they must be. Let no man seek Henceforth to be foretold what shall befall 771 Him or his children ; evil he may be sure, Which neither his foreknowing can prevent, And he the future evil shall no less In apprehension than in substance feel 775 Grievous to bear : but that care now is past, Man is not whom to warn ; those few escaped Famine and anguish will at last consume, Wandering that watery desert. I had hope, When violence was ceased and war on earth, 730 All would have then gone well, peace would have crowned 753. ^/He/^, all that were left. 774. Ami — no less is equiva -t>o«o?73, vessel. lent f nor — 'ess. 76S. Enough. " Suffirieno un- 777. Man is not iv/io?}! to warn, to the day is the evil thereof." no man exists \v!jo can be warned, alatthew vi. 34. — t/iose, those 779. WanUerin){, wandering evils. — dispensed, dealt out by over, portions as. 358 PARADISE LOST. [Book XI, With length of happy clays the race of man : But I was far deceived ; for now I see Peace to corrupt no less than war to waste. How comes it thus ? unfold, celestial guide, 781 And whether here the race of man will end." To whom thus Michael : " Those, whom last thou saw'st In triumph and luxurious Avealth, are they First seen in acts of prowess eminent And great exploits, but of true virtue void ; 790 Who having spilt much blood and done much waste • Subduing nations, and achieved thereby Fame in the world, high titles, and rich prey, Shall change their course to pleasure, ease, and sloth, Surfeit, and lust, till wantonness and pride 795 Raise out of friendship hostile deeds in peace. The conquered also and enslaved by war Shall, with their freedom lost, all virtue lose And fear of God, from whom their piety feigned In sharp contest of battle found no aid 800 Against invaders ; therefore cooled in zeal Thenceforth shall practise how to live secure, Worldly or dissolute, on what their lords Sliall leave them to enjoy ; for the earth shall bear More than enough, that temperance may be tried. So all shall turn degenerate, all depraved, 808 Justice and temperance, truth and faith forgot; One man except, the only son of light In a dark age, against example good. Against allurement, custom, and a world 810 784. That peace corrupts no suhjoct of this verb, see line less than war wastes. 7ii7. 785. vnfol/J, explain ; declare . 808. except, excepted. tow it comes to be tlius. 809. against evcnviple good, 789. First, previously. good notwithstanding the ^x- 796. in peace, in time of peace, ample of evil about him. See 802. shall practise. For the V. 900-902 BookXI-I paradise lost. 259 Offended ; fearless of reproach and scorn, Or violence, he of their Avickcd ways Shall them admonish, and before them set The paths of righteousness how much more safe And full of peace, denouncing wrath to come 616 On their impenitence ; and shall return Of them derided, but of God observed The one just man alive ; by his command Shall build a wondrous ark, as thou beheld'st, To save himself and household from amidst 820 A Avorld devote to universal Avrack. No sooner he, witli them of man and beast Select for life, shall in the ark be lodged And sheltered round, but all the cataracts Of heaven set open on the earth shall pour 825 Rain day and night ; all fountains of the deep Broke up shall heave the ocean to usurp Beyond all bounds, till inundation rise Above the highest hills : then shall this mount Of Paradise by might of waves be moved 830 Oat of his place, pushed by the horned flood, With all his verdure spoiled and trees adrift, Down the great river to the opening gulf, And there take root an island salt and bare, The haunt of seals, and ores, and sea-mews' clang : To teach thee that God attributes to place 836 815. full of peace. " All her Scriptures. The poet seems also paths are peace." Proverbs iii. to have had in mind the common l7. meaning of the word. 817. P/; by. 82(3. all fountains. "All the 818. just. " Noah was a just fountains of the great deep." man." Genesis vi. 9. Genesis vii. 11. 821. devote., devoted; given 831. his^ its. — horned. This up. — u'mcA;, wreck. epithet was applied by the an- _ 823. Select for life, chosen to cients to rivers. Virgil gives the live. rushing Po the head and homa 824. cataracts, in Genesis vii. of a bull. II, windows. The former word 835. ores, animnls of the cota (cataracts) is a translation from ceous or whale ordsr; gram the Greek, the latter (windows) puses. — clang. See VIJ". i22 ti<.m the Hebrew version of the 5 00 PA RA DISK L OS T, [Book XI ^o sanctity, if none be tliitlicr brought 3y men who there frequent, or therein dwell. A.nd now what further shcill ensue, behold." He looked, and saw the ark hull on the flood, 84C Which now abated ; for the clouds were fled, Driven by a keen north wind, that blowing dry Wrinkled the face of deluge, as decayed ; And the clear sun on his wide watery glass Gazed hot, and of the fresh wave largely drew 845 As after thirst, which made their flowing shrink From standing lake to tripping ebb, that stole With soft foot towards the deep, who now had stopped His sluices, as the heaven his windows shut. 840 The ark no more now floats, but seems on ground, Fast on the top of some high mountain fixed. And now the tops of hills as rocks appear ; With clamor thence the rapid currents drive Towards the retreating sea their furious tide. Forthwith from out the ark a raven flies, 865 And after him, the surer messenger, A dove, sent forth once and again to spy Green tree or ground whereon his foot may light ; The second time returning in his bill An olive-leaf he brings, pacific sign. 860 Anon dry ground appears, and from his ark The ancient sire descends with all his train ; Then with uplifted hands and eyes devout. Grateful to Heaven, over his head beholds A dewy cloud, and in the cloud a bow, 865 838. there frequent, thither re- 849. shut, had shut, sort or throng. 8G0. pacific sign, emblem of 840-8G7. See Genesis viii. peace. 840. Am//, lioat as ahull. 865. a bow. "I do set mj 843. as f/ecaije/f, as if dwnyeci. bow in the cloud.'' See Qeaesis 844. his. its, referring to /ace. ix. 12-16. 846. their, of the wave or 'vavcs. Book XL] PARADISE LOST .861 Conspicuous with three listed colors gay, Betokening peace from God and covenant new. Whereat the heart of Adam, erst so sad, Greatly rejoiced, and thus his joy broke forth : " O thou who future things canst represent 870 As present, heavenly instructor, I revive At this last sight, assured that man shall live With all the creatures, and their seed preserve. Far less I now lament for one whole world Of wicked sons destroyed, than I rejoice 876 For one man found so perfect and so just, That God vouchsafes to raise another world From him, and all his anger to forget. But say, wdiat mean those colored streaks in heaven, Distended as the brow of God appeased ? 880 Or serve they as a flowery verge to bind The fluid skirts of that same watery cloud. Lest it again dissolve and shower the earth ? ** To whom the Archangel : " Dextrously thou alm'st ; So willingly doth God remit his ire, 885 Though late repenting him of man depraved. Grieved at his heart when looking down he saw The whole earth filled with violence, and all flesh Corrupting each their way ; yet, those removed, Such grace shall one just man find in his sight, 890 That he relents not to blot out mankind, 866. three, red, yellow, blue. 887. Grieved. "And it re- — listed, \nsiv\\)es. pented the Lord that he had 880. Distended, spread. — 05, made man on the earth, and it as it were ; like. grieved liim at his heart." Gen- 881. serve they, ?Gwe they only, esis vi. 6. 884. DexteroKsly thou aimest, 889. removed, having been re- rightly thou dost guess. moved. 886. repentin'^ him of. repent- 891. relents not to blot, gives uj ing that he liad made— ^ dfjrraced, his purpose of blottiug DOW fallen from innocence. 362- PARADISE LOST. [Book XL And makes a covenant never to destro)' The earth again by flood, nor let the sea Surpass his bounds, nor rain to drown the world With man therein or beast ; but when he brings Over the earth a cloud, will therein set 896 His triple-colored bow, whereon to look, And call to mind his covenant : day and night, Seed-time and harvest, heat and hoary frost, 899 Shall hold their course, till fire purge all things new, Both heaven and earth, wherein the just shall dwell." 892. a covenant. See Genesis and svimmer and winter, and day Ix. 8-17. and night, shall not cease." Gen- 893. let, to let. esis viii. '^2. 894. nor, nor let. 900. till fire purge all things. 897. lohereon to look, on which See 2 Peter iii. 12, 13. — new, to he may look. See Genesis ix. 16. make them new ; " new heaveiu 898. day and night. " While and a new earth, wherein dw«U- the earth remaioeth, seed-time eth righteousness." EjQci harvest, and cold and heat. BotMcXn.l PARADISE LOST, 363 BOOK xn. THE ARGUMENT. Thb angel Michael continues from the flood to relate what shall succeed; then, in the mention of Abraham, comes by degrees to explain who that seed of the woman shaU be which was prom- ised Adam and Eve in the fall. Uis incarnation, death, resur- rection, and ascension ; the state of the church till his second coming. Adam, greatly satisfied and recomforted by these rela- tions and promises, ascends the hill with Michael ; wakens Eve, who all this while had slept, but with gentle dreams composed to quietness of mind and submission. Michael in either hand leads them out of Paradise, the fiery sword waving behind them, and the Cherubim taking their stations to guard the place. As one who in his journey baits at noon, Though bent on speed, so here the Archangel paused BetAvixt the world destroyed and world restored, If Adam aught perhaps might interpose ; Then with transition SAveet new speech resumes : 5 " Thus thou hast seen one world begin and end ; And man as from a second stock proceed. Much thou hast yet to see, but I perceive Thy mortal sight to foil ; objects divine Must Heeds impair and weary human sense. M Henceforth what is to come I will relate ; Thou therefore give due audience, and attend. " This second source of men, while yet but few, And while the dread of judgment past remains 1. haiiiy rests for refreshment. 12. audience, hearing. 364 PARADISE LOST. [Book Xtt Fresh in their minds, fearing the Deity, 15 With some regard to what is just and right Shall lead their lives, and multiply apace, Laboring the soil and reaping plenteous crop, Corn, wine, and oil ; and from the herd or flook Oft sacrificing bullock, lamb, or kid, 20 With large wine-offerings poured and sacred feast, Shall spend their days in joy unblamed, and dwell Long time in peace, by fomilles and tribes, Under paternal rule : till one shall rise Of proud ambitious heart, who, not content SB With fair equality, fraternal state, Will arrogate dominion undeserved Over his brethren, and quite dispossess Concord and law of nature from the earth ; Hunting (and men, not beasts, shall be his game) 80 With war and hostile snare such as refuse Subjection to his empire tyrannous. A mighty hunter thence he shall be styled Before the Lord, as in despite of Heaven, Or from Heaven claiming second sovran ty ; ffi And from rebellion shall derive his name. Though of rebellion others he accuse. He, with a crew whom like ambition joins With him or under him to tyrannize, Marching from Eden towards the Avest, shall find 40 The plain, wherein a black bituminous gurge Boils out from under ground, the mouth of Hell : IS. Laboring^ tilling ; culti- 36. name, Nimrod, translated vating. by some, rebel, 24. one, Nimrod. '*IIe beg.an 41. Tht plain. "And the be- to be a mighty one in the earth." ginning of liis kingdom was Ba- Genesis X. S. bel, — in the land of Shiuar.' 27. undeserved, not gained by "And it came to pass, as they right or merit. journeyed from the cast, that 30. Hunting. " He was a they found a phiin in the laud of mighty hunter before the Lord." Shiuar ; aud they dwelt there.' Genesis x. 9. Genesis x. 10 and xi. 2. — h/ack 3i. a.s, as if. bituminous gurge. In the Baby Book XII.] PARADISE LOST. 365 Of brick and of that stuff they cast to build A city and tower whose top may reach to Heaven, And get themselves a name, lest far dispersed 46 In foreign lands their memory be lost, Regardless whether good or evil fame. But God, who oft descends to visit men Unseen and through their habitations walks To mark their doings, them beholding soon 50 Comes down to see their city, ere the tower Obstruct Heaven-towers, and in derision sets Upon their tongues a various spirit, to rase Quite out their native language, and instead To sow a jangling noise of words unknown. 66 Forthwith a hideous gabble rises loud Among the builders ; each to other calls Not understood, till hoarse and all in rage As mocked they storm : great laughter was in Heaven And looking down, to see the hubbub strange 60 And hear the din ; thus was the building left Ridiculous, and the work Confusion named." Whereto thus Adam fatherly displeased • " execrable son, so to aspire Ionian plain, " plain of Shinar," 52. in derision. " He that sil- are still found wells of naphtha teth in the heavens shall laugh; or bitumen. In the neighbor- the Lord shall have them in de- hood of Babylon (Babel) was an rision." Psalm ii. 4. Inexhaustible supply of clay, of 53. rase, blot. See II. 923. which were made the bricks, 59. As mocked they storm, t\iey that, together with the bitumen, are fierce %nth passion, thinking formed the walls of the city, themselves mocked, whose remains may still be seen 60. looking doicn, great look- on the banks of the Euphrates ing down. —gurge means whirlpool ; gulf 62. Ridicidojis, fit for langhtei 43. Of brick. See Genesis xi. or scorn — Confusion. See Gene- 3, 4. — that stuff, slime or bitu- sis xi. 9. aien. This was used in the walls 63. fatherhj, as the father of •>f Babylon as mortar or cement, the race. cast, plan ; devise. 64 exeirable son. See linei See Genesis xi. 5-9. 24r-37. 566 PARADISE LOST. [Book XJI Above his brethren, to himself assuming 61 Authority usurped, from God not given : He gave us only over beast, fish, fowl, Dominion absolute ; that right we hold By his donation ; but man over men He made not lord ; such title to himself 70 Reserving, human left from human free. But this usurper his encroachment proud Stays not on man ; to God his tower Intends Siege and defiance. Wretched man ! what food Will he convey up thither to sustain 76 Himself and his rash army, where thin air Above the clouds will pine his entrails gross, And famish him of breath, If not of bread ? " To whom thus "Michael : " Justly thou abhorr'st Tliat son, who on the quiet state of men . 80 Such trouble brought, affecting to subdue Rational liberty ; yet know withal, Since thy original lapse true liberty Is lost, which always with right reason dwells Twinned, and from her hath no dividual being. 86 Reason In man obscured or not obeyed. Immediately Inordinate desires And upstart passions catch the government From reason, and to servitude reduce Man till then free. Therefore since he permits 90 Within himself unworthy powers to reign Over free reason, God in judgment just Subjects him fi^om Avithout to violent lords. Who oft as undeservedly enthrall 71. human left from human 85. Twinned^ as a twin. — free, left men free from man's rftr/V/KnZ, separate. See VII. 382. tomiaion. 86. obscured, being or having 77. pme, wear out; waste away, been obscured. 81. affecting, aiming. 88. catch, snatch away. 83. lapse., fall. 94. undeservedly. See line 27 Book XH.] PARADISE LUST. 867 His outward freedom : tyranny must be, Ofi Though to the tyrant thereby no excuse. Yet sometimes nations will decline so low From virtue, which is reason, that no wrong, But justice, and some fatal curse annexed. Deprives them of their outward liberty, 100 Their inAvard lost : witness the irreverent son Of him Avho built the ark, who for the shame Done to his father heard his heavy curse, Servant of servants, on his vicious race. Thus will this latter as the former world 106 Still tend from bad to worse, till God at last, Wearied with their iniquities, withdraw His presence from among them, and avert His holy eyes ; resolving from thenceforth To leave them to their own polluted ways, lio And one peculiar nation to select From all the rest of whom to be invoked, A nation from one faithful man to spring : Him on this side Euphrates yet residing. Bred up in idol-worship, — O that men 115 (Canst thou believe ?) should be so stupid grown. While yet the patriarch lived who scaped the flood, As to forsake the living God, and fall To worship their own work in Avood and stone For gods ! — yet him God the Most High vouchsafes To call by vision from his father's house, 121 His kindred and false gods, into a land 95. must he. "Woe unto the 113. one faithful ma;t, Abram world because of offences! for or Abraham. It must needs be that offences 114. tliis side Euphrates^ th« come; but woe to that man by eastern side, on which was Eden, whom the offence cometh " ! 115. '.iol-icorship. Your fa- Matthew xviii. 7. See IV. 393, thers dwelt on the other side of 894. the flood in old time, even Te- 101. inward lost, inward lib- rah, tlie father of Abraham rty being lost. See .lohn viii. and the father of Naclior ; and 51-^G. — the irreverent son. See they served other gods." Joshua ♦Genesis ix 20-27- xxiv. 2. il2 q/, by 121-127. See Genesis xii. 1-^ 368 PARADISE LOST. [Book XU Which he will show him, and from him will raise A mighty nation, and upon him shower His benediction so, that in his seed 125 All nations shall be blest : he straight obeysj Not knowing to what land, yet firm believes. I sec him, but thou canst not, with what faith He leaves his goJs, his friends, and native soil, Ur of Chaldasa, passing now the ford 13c To Haran, after him a cumbrous train Of herds and flocks, and numerous servitude ; Not wandering poor, but trusting all his wealth With God who called him, in a land unknown. Canaan he now attains ; I see his tents 135 Pitched about Sechcm, and the neighboring plain Of Moreh ; there by promise he receives Gift to his progeny of all that land, From Hamath northward to the desert south 139 (Things by their names I call, though yet unnamed), From Hermon east to the great western sea ; Mount Hermon, yonder sea, each place behold In prospect, as I point them ; on the shore Mount Carmel ; here the double-founted stream 126. straight. See I. 531. 136. Sechem, Sichem, called in 127. Not knoioing. •' He went the New Testament (John iv. 5) out, not knowing whither he Sychar. went." Hebrews xi. 8. 137. Moreh. See Genesis xii. 6. 130. Ur of CkaldfKa. See Gen- This plain was about midway esis xi. 31. Ur was a city in the between the river and the sea. — north of Mesopotamia, a district there by promise. See Genesis between the rivers Euphrates and xii. 7. Tigris. 139. Hamath was north of 131. Haran., or Charran, was Damascus. — northward., on the also ia Mesopotamia. north 132. servitude.., body of ser- 141. i7erw?on was on the north- vants or slaves. east of Canaan, near the source 135. Canaan. " They went of the Jordan, forth to go into the land of 143. 07i the .<i)-2'j9. See the Book of what. JOBhua. 574 PARADISE LOST. [Book XII. Of me and all mankind ; but now I see 876 His da J, in whom all nations shall be blessed, Favor unmerited by me, who sought Forbidden knowledge by forbidden means. Yet this I apprehend not, why to those 380 Among whom God will deimi to dwell on earth So many and so various laws are given ; So many laws argue so many sins Among them ; how can God with such reside ? " 284 To whom thus Michael : " Doubt not but that sin Will reign among them, as of thee begot ; And therefore was law given them, to evince Their natural pravity, by stirring up Sin against law to fight ; that when they see Law can discover sin but not remove, 290 Save by those shadowy expiation^ weak, The blood of bulls and goats, they may conclude Some blood more precious must be paid for man, Just for unjust, that in such righteousness, To them by faith imputed, they may find 295 Justification towards God, and peace Of conscience, which the law by ceremonies Cannot appease, nor man the moral part Perform, and not performing cannot live. So law appears imperfect, and but given 300 With purpose to resign them in full time 277. His day. "Your father the just for the unjust, that he Abraham rejoiced to see my day ; might bring us to God." 1 Peter »nd he saw it, and was glad." iii. 18. John viii. 56. 295. imputed. See Romans iv. 288. pravity, depravity. 22-25. 290. See Romans vii. 5-24. 293. peace. " Therefore, be* A%\. shadowy expiations. "The ing justified by faith, we hare law having a shadow of good peace with God, through our things to lome." Hebrews x. 1. Lord Jesus Christ." Romana 292. The blood of bulls and y. 1. joats. See Hebrews ix. 11-14. 300. imperfect. See Romaas 294. Just f 01 unjust. "Christ viii. 3, 4. »lfiO hath oncc sulfered for sins, Book XII.] PARADISE LOST. 375 Up to a better covenant, disciplineJ From shadowy types to truth, from flesh to spirit, From imposition of strict laws to free Acceptance of hirge grace, from servile fear 306 To filial, works of law to works of faith. And therefore shall not Moses, though of God Highly beloved, being but the minister Of law, his people into Canaan lead ; But Joshua, whom the Gentiles Jesus call, 310 Ilis name and office bearing who shall quell The adversary serpent, and bring back Through the worll's wilderness long wandered man Safe to eternal Paradise of rest. Meanwhile they, in their earthly Canaan placed, 315 Long time shall dwell and prosper, but when sins National interrup* their public peace, Provoking God to raise them enemies ; From whom as oft he saves thdm penitent, By judges first, then under kings ; of whom 320 The second, both for piety renowned And puissant deeds, a promise shall receive Irrevocable, that his regal throne For ever shall endure ; the like shall sing All prophecy, that of the royal stock 325 Of David (so I name this king) shall rise A son, the woman's seed to thee foretold, Foretold to Abraham, as in whom shall trust All nations, and to kings foretold, of kings 302. a better covenant. See 315-320. See the Boo^ oj ^eb^ew8 viii 4-13. — disciplined. Jud^jes. •^ Wherefore tUe law wt^s our 316. but. except, .choiaster to bring us unto SiO-Si-i See the Books of Ckrist7that we might be justj. Samuel, of Kings, and of Lhrou- fled by faith." Galatiansiii.2-1- i^l^^- „ o 3o„,»ni 310. Joshua is iu Hebrew the .322. a promise. See 2 Samue\ game as Jesus iu Greek. Both vii- Iti- x • v ■ i S)rds mean be tbat shall save, m. the hke. See Isaiah xi. 1. gaviour. 311. Bearing the name and of- li'i« ■^•l'^- Uk ot biw wlio sliall 'lueU. 328. as, as Jeremiah xxiii. 5. — sing, t^oe 376 PARADISE LOST. [Book XII. The last, for of his reign shall be no end. 830 But first a long succession must ensue, And his next son, for wealth and wisdom famed, The clouded ark of God, till then in tents Wandering, shall in a glorious temple enshrine. Such follow him as shall be registered 836 Part good, part bad ; of bad the longer scroll, Whose foul idolatries and other faults, Heaped to the popular sum, will so incense God, as to leaA'e them, and expose their land, Their city, his temple, and his holy ark, 34k) W^ith all his sacred things, a scorn and prey To that proud city, whose high walls thou saw'st Left in confusion. Babylon thence called. There in captivity he lets them dwell The space of seventy years, then brings them back, Remembering mercy and his covenant sworn 3i6 To David, stablished as the days of Heaven. Returned from Babylon, by leave of kings Their lords, whom God disposed, the house of God They first re-edify, and for a while 350 In mean estate live moderate, till, grown In wealth and multitude, factious they grow. But first among the priests dissension springs, 330. shall be no end " His do- 337 - 343. See 2 Chrouiclea minion is an everlasting domin- xxxvi. 14-21. ion, whicli sliall not pass away, 338. Heaped to the popvlar and his kingdom that whifh sum, increased so as to involve shall not be destroyed. " Daniel the whole people or nation in the vii. 14. guilt and its punishment. 332. his next son, the son who , 337 - 343. See 2 Chroniclea succeeded him as king ; Solomon, xxxvi. 14-21. who reigned next. 342. thou saivest. See linea 333. in tents. The Ark of the 38-62. Covenant had been i-emoved, with 345. seventy years. See Jer©- or without the Tabernacle, from miali xxr. 11. place to place, until it was car- 345-350. See the Book of Ezra tied with gj-eat solemnity into and the Book of Nehemiah. the Temple which Solomon had 349. 7chom God disposed. Se« built for its abode. Ezra i. 1, and Nehemiah ii. 1-8. 335. registered in the Second 350. rf-fc///"//, build again. Book of the Chronicles of the 353-356. The history of thi» kings of Judah. dissension is found in the .^poo Book Xri-l PARADISE LOST. 377 Men who attend the altar and should most Endeavor peace : their strife pollution brings 868 Upon the temple itself; at last they seize The sceptre, and regard not David's sons, Then lose it to a stranger, that the true Anointed king Messiah might be born Barred of his right ; yet at his birth a star, 86(5 Unseen before in heaven, proclaims him come, And guides the eastern sages, who inquire His place, to offer incense, myrrh, and gold. His place of birth a solemn angel tells To simple shepherds keeping watch by night ; 366 They gladly thither haste, and by" a quire Of squadroned angels hear his carol sung : A Virgin is his mother, but his sire The power of the Most High ; he shall ascend The throne hereditary, and bound his reign 37U With earth's wide bounds, his glory with the heavens." He ceEised, discerning Adam with such joy Surcharged as had, like grief, been dewed in tears, Without the vent of words, which these he breathed ; " O prophet of glad tidings, finisher 876 Of utmost hope ! now clear I understand. What oft my steadiest thoughts have searched in vain, rypha, in the Second Book of the 358. a stranger, Herod the Idu- Maccabees. The strife which roaaan, known as llerod the brought pollution u/ion the tern- Great. pie itself, is described in chaptei'S 3J0. Barrei of, excluded from iii.-v. — a star. Sf'c Matthew ii. 854, 355. " For the priest's lips 335. shepherds. See Luke ii should keep knowledge?, and they 8-14. shouldseek the lawat hisuiouth ; 3i7. cnro., Christmas song for he is the messenger of the sons of joy. Lord of hosts." Malachi ii. 7. — 373. duced, dropped as dew endeavor^ strive to bring about. 374. Wiihoia, but for. 378 PARADISE LOST. [Book XII, Why our great expectation should be called The seed of woman. Virgin Mother, hail ! High in the love of Heaven, yet from my loins 880 Thou shalt proceed, and from thy womb the Son Of God Most High ; so God with man unites. Needs must the serpent now his capital bruise Expect with mortal jDain : say where and when 384 Their fight, what stroke shall bruise the victor's heel ? " To whom thus Michael : " Dream not of their fight As of a duel, or the local wounds Of head or heel : not therefore joins the Son Manhood to Godhead, with more strength to foil Thy enemy ; nor so is overcome 390 Satan, whose fall from Heaven, a deadlier bruise, Disabled not to give thee thy death's wound ; Which he, who comes thy Saviour, shall recure, Not by destroying Satan, but his works In thee and in thy seed ; nor can this be, 396 But by fulfilling that which thou didst want, Obedience to the law of God, imposed On penalty of death, and suffering death, The penalty to thy transgression due, And due to theirs which out of thine will grow ; 400 So only can high justice rest appaid. The law of God exact he shall fulfil Both by obedience and by love, though love Alone fulfil the law ; thy punishment 379-- liall. See the salutatioo of purpose the Son of God was man the angel, Luke i. 28. IfesteU, that he might destroy th« 383. capital, upon the head, works of the devil." \ Johi) '♦ It shall bruise thy htad." iii. 8. flenesis iii. 15. 398. want^ fail in. 387. locAil, having a place. 400. theirs, the transgressioo 392. Disabled not, disabled him of thy seed. not; took not from him the 401. o/;//rt(V/, satisfied. power. 404. fulfil the law. " Love il 393. recure, he;il the fulfilling of the law." Bo 891. his works. " For this wans xiij. 10. BookXIL] paradise lost. 379 He shall endure by coining in the flesh 401 To a reproachful life and cui-sed death, Proclaiming life to all who shall believe In his redemption, and that his obedience Imputed becomes theirs by faith, his merits To save them, not their own, though legal, works. For this he shall live hated, be blasphemed, 411 Seized on by force, judged, and to death condemned A shameful and accursed, nailed to the cross By his own nation, slain for bringing hfe ; But to the cross he nails thy enemies, 416 The law that is against thee, and the sins Of all mankind, with him there crucified. Never to hurt them more who rightly trust In this his satisfaction : so he dies. But soon revives ; death over him no power 420 Shall long usurp ; ere the third dawning light Return, the stars of morn shall see him rise Out of his grave, fresh as the dawning light. Thy ransom paid, which man from death redeems ; His death for man, as many as offered life 426 Neglect not, and the benefit embrace By foith not void of works. This godlike act Annuls thy doom, the death thou shouldst have died, In sin for ever lost from life ; this act 42& Shall bruise the head of Satan, crush his strength, 408. that, believe that. Hi- 287-297, and Kornans v. ^ 409. his merits, etc. Perhaps a 19. Latinism ; that hLs merits save 420. no power. Death hath \,]xQm.. °o "I'^r** aomiuiou over huii. ' 41o! not their own, ihonsh U- Romuus vl. 9. enl. works, not their own works, 421. ere the third ctawmns Ihough according to the law. light. See Matthew x.%\v\ " Knowing that a man is not jus- 424- ransom. " V, ho jt^vo tim. (ifiedb\ the works of the law, but self a lansom for all." 1 limothy bv the' faith of Jesus Christ." ii. 6. Galntians ii. 16. 425. ns nmny, as many men. — 415. he nails. "Nailing it to 05 of^reJ life neglect not, au iis cross." Colos.Mans ii. 14. neglect not the iife whu-h is of. 4X9. his satisfaction. hS:' dy\ns fered for the sins of mankind. Frc 427. not void of works. 8e« James ii. 14-26 380 PARADISE LOST. [Book XII Defeating Sin an 1 '> ':Ub, his two main arms, And fix far deejic. . iiis head their stings Than temporal deiitL shall bruise the victor's heel, Or theirs whom he redeems, a death-like sleep, A gentle wafting to immortal life. 43S Nor after resurrection shall he stay Longer on earth than certain times to appear To his disciples, men who in his life Still followed him ; to them shall leave in charge To teach all nations what of him they learned 44C And his salvation, them who shall believe Baptizing in the profluent stream, the sign Of washing them from guilt of sin to life, Pure, and in mind prepared, if so befall, For death, like that which the Redeemer died. 448 All nations they shall teach ; for from that day Not only to the sons of Abraham's loins Salvation shall be preached, but to the sons Of Abraham's faith wherever through the world ; So in his seed all nations shall be blessed. 450 Then to the heaven of heavens he shall ascend With victory, triumphing through the air Over his foes and thine ; there shall surprise The serpent, prince of air, and drag in chains Through all his realm, and there confounded leave ; Then enter into glory, and resume 456 His seat at God's right hand, exalted high Above all names in Heaven ; and thence shall come, When this world's dissolution shall be ripe, 434. Or theirs, or the heel of A.bo. and there, confounrled leave, those. ami there leave him coufounded. 439. leave in charge. See Mat- 457. exalted hi^k. " WTiere- fcheif xxTiii. 18-20. fore God also hath highly ex- 442. projliient, flowing. alted him, and given him a name 449. of Abraham's faith. See which is above every name.' Romans iv. \Q-li. — whertvtr, Pliilippians ii. 9. wherever found. 45U. \Vhen this world shall bt 454. in c/uiins. See Revelation ripe for dissolution, fcx. 1. 2. Book XTI.] PARADISE LOST. 381 With glory and power to judge both quick and dead ; 498 To judge the unfaithful dead, but to reward His faithful, and receive them Into bliss, Whether in Heaven or Earth, for then the earth Shall all be Paradise, fir happier place Than this of Eden, and far happier days." 46c So spake the Archangel Michael, then paused, As at the world's great period ; and our sire, Replete with joy and wonder, thus replied : " O goodness infinite, goodness immense ! That all this good of evil shall produce, 470 And evil turn to good ; more wonderful Than that which by creation first brought forth Light out of darkness ! Full of doubt I stand, Whether I should repent me now of sin By me done and occasioned, or rejoice 475 Much more, that much more good thereof shall spring, To God more glory, more good-will to men From God, and over wrath grace shall abound. But say, if our Deliverer up to Heaven Must reascend, what will betide the few 480 His faithful, left among the unfaithful herd, The enemies of truth ? who then shall guide His people, who defend ? will they not deal Worse Avith his followers than with him they dealt ? " "Be sure they will," said the angel; "but from Heaven 486 460 "And then shall they see 467. poriod, end. She Son of man coming in a 470. r/m«, which.— o/, from, eloud, with power and great 478. grace shall abound. See glory." Lukexxi.27. See also Romans v. 20, 21. Matthew xxv. 31-46. — both quale and dead. See Acts x. 42 - quick, living. 382 PARADISE LOST. [Book XII He to Ills own a Comforter will send, The promise of the Fatlier, who shall dwell His Spirit within them, and the law of faith Workinf^ through love upon their hearts shall write, To guide them in all truth, and also arm 48Q With spiritual armor, able to resist Satan's assaults and quench his fiery darts ; What man can do against them not afraid, Though to the death ; against such cruelties With inward consolations recompensed, 496 And oft supported so as shall amaze Their proudest persecutors : for the Spirit, Poured first on his Apostles whom he sends To evangelize the nations, then on all Baptized, shall them with wondrous gifts endue 500 To speak all tongues, and do all miracles As did their Lord before them. Thus they win Great numbers of each nation to receive With joy the tidings brought from Heaven : at length, Their ministry performed and race well run, 505 Their doctrine and their story written left, They die ; but In their room, as they forewarn, Wolves shall succeed for teachers, grievous wolves. Who all the sacred m3'steries of Heaven To their own vile advantages shall turn 610 Of lucre and ambition, and the truth With superstitions and traditions taint, 4S7. TJie promise of the Father, and after that hare no mere that Bee Luke xxiv. 49. they can do." Luke xii. 4. 489. through love. " Faith 498. Poured first. See Acts Ji which worketh by love." Qala- 506. Their doctrine and their tians V. 6. stori/ loritten in the Epistles and 490. " Ilowbeit when he, the the Book of Acts. Spirit of truth, is come, he will 508. Woh-es. " For I know guide you into all truth." John this, that after my departing xvi. 13. shall grievous wolves enter in 491. spiritual armor. SeeEphe- among you, not sparing th« sians vi. 11-17. flock." Acts xx. 29. 493. Not afraid of what man 511. lucre and ambition Set can do against them. "Be not 1 Peter v. 2, 3. Afraid of them that kill the body, Book XU] PARADISE LOST. 383 Left only in tliose written records pure, Thougli not but by the Spirit undci-stood. Then shall they seek to avail themselves of names, Places, and titles, and with these to join 616 Secular power, though feigning still to act By spiritual, to themselves appropriating The Spirit of God, promised alike and given To all believers ; and from that pretence 520 Spiritual laws by carnal power shall force On every conscience ; laws which none shall find Left them inrolled, or what the Spirit within Shall on the heai^t engrave. What will they then But force the Spirit of grace itself, and bind 525 His consort Liberty ? What, but unbuild His living temples, built by faith to stand. Their own faith, not another's ? for on earth Who against faith and conscience can be heard Infallible ? yet many will presume : 630 Whence heavy persecution shall arise On all who in the worship persevere Of spirit and truth ; the rest, far greater part, Will deem in outward rites and specious forms Religion satisfied ; Truth shall retire 636 Bestuck with slanderous darts, and works of faith Rarely be found. So shall the world go on, To good malignant, to bad men benign. Under her own weight groaning, till the day Aj^ear of respiration to the just 640 And vengeance to the wicked, at return 614. fcM«, except. 533. spirit and truth. SeeJcbn 518. spiritual, spiritual power, ir. 23, 24. 523. thetJi, to them. — inro'.led 53S. To good, to good men. In the Scriptures, which wore 540. respiration, breathing formerly written and kept iu agtiin ; relief or restitution. See rolls. — tvhni, such as. Acts iii. 21. 526. Liberty. " ^Vliere the 541. return. " For the Son of Sj^irit of the Lord is, there is man shal'. come in the glory of liberty." 2 Corinthians iii. 17. his Father, with his angels; and 527. His livins: temples. 1 Co- then shall he reward every maj "inthians iii. 16, 17. 384 PARADISE LOST. I Book XU Of him so lately promised to thy aid, The woman's seed, obscurely then foretold, Now amplier known thy Saviour and thy Lord ; La^t in the clouds from Heaven to be revealed 540 In glory of the Father, to dissolve Satan with his perverted world, then raise From the conflagrant mass, purged and refined, New heavens, new earth, ages of endless date, Founded in righteousness and peace and love, 55C To bring forth fruits, joy and eternal bliss." He ended ; and thus Adam last replied : " How soon hath thy prediction, seer blest. Measured this transient world, the race of time, Till time stand fixed ! beyond is all abyss, 668 Eternity, whose end no eye can reach. Greatly instructed I shall hence depart. Greatly in peace of thought, and have my fill Of knowledge, what this vessel can contain ; Beyond which was my folly to aspire. seo Henceforth I learn that to obey is best, And love with fear the only God, to walk As in his presence, ever to observe His providence, and on him sole depend, Merciful over all his works, with good 56B Still overcoming evil, and by small Accomplishing great things, by things deemed weak o according to his works." Mat- beyond is abyss, immeasurable thew xvi. 27. depth. 544. amplier, more fully. — 559. ivhat, all of knowledge knoivn, known as. which. 545. in the clouds. See Mat- 560. was, it was. thew xxiv. 30. 561. to obey is best. " Behold, 548. conflagrant, burning to- to obey is better than sacrifice.'' fether, with a 3ommon flame. 1 Samuel xv. 22. 549. New heavens, new earth. 505. " The Lord is good to all ; Bee 2 Peter iii. 10-13. and his tender mercies are ovei 552. last replied, replied for the all his works." Psalm cxlv. 9. last time. 566 - 569. See 1 Corinthiani 51-b. bevcnd is all abyss, all i. 26-29. Book XII.] PARADISE LOST. 385 Bubverting worldly strong and worldly wise By simply meek ; that suffering for truth's sake Is fortitude to highest victory, 670 And, to the faithful, death the gate of life ; Taught this by his example, Avliom I now Acknowledge my Redeemer ever blest." To whom thus also the angel last replied : " This having learned, thou hast attained the sum 676 Of wisdom ; hope no higher, though all the stars Thou knew'st by name, and all the ethereal powers, All secrets of the deep, all Nature's works, Or works of God in heaven, air, earth, or sea, And all the riches of this world enjoyedst, 5SU And all the rule, one empire : only add Deeds to thy knowledge answerable ; add faith, Add virtue, patiem;e, temperance, add love, By name to come called charity, the soul Of all the rest ; then wilt thou not be loath 686 To leave this Paradise, but shalt possess A paradise within thee, happier far. Let us descend now therefore from this top Of speculation, for the hour precise Exacts our parting hence ; and see, the guards £90 By me encamped on yonder hill expect Their motion, at whose front a flaming sword, In signal of remove, waves fiercely round : We may no longer stay. Go, waken Sve ; Her also I with gentle dreams have calmed, 595 Portending good, and all her spirits composed To meek submission ; thou at season fit 569. that. See Hue 561. lation, view, —p'ecise, fixed ; ap- 576. hope no higher, hope for pointed, no higher attaiaraent. 590. Exacts, requires. 581-585. Soe 2 Peter i. 5-7.— 591,592. expect their mocion, thnrity. See 1 Corinthians xiii. aw.iit the signal to move. — a 688, 589. this top of specula- faming sword. See Gsnesis ill tion. See XI. 376-3.S4. - specu- ai. 25 586 PARADISE LOST. [Book XIL Let ber with thee partake what thou hast heard, Chielly what may concern her faith, to know, The great deUverance by her seed to come 600 (For by the woman's seed) on all mankind ; That ye may live, which may be many days. Both in one faith unanimous, though sad With cause for evils past, yet much more cheered With meditation on the happy end." 606 He ended, and they both descend the hill ; Descended, Adam to the bower where Eve Lay sleeping ran before, but found her waked ; And thus with words not sad she him received : " Whence thou return'st, and whither went'st, I know ; 610 For God is also in sleep, and dreams advise, Which he hath sent propitious, some great good Presaging, since with sorrow and heart's distress Wearied I fell asleep. But now lead on ; In me is no delay ; with thee to go 616 Is to stay here ; without thee here to stay Is to go hence unwilling ; thou to me Art all things under heaven, all places thou, Who for my wilful crime art banished hence. This further consolation yet secure 630 I carry hence ; though all by me is lost, Such favor I unworthy am vouchsafed. By me the promised Seed shall all restore." So spake our mother Eve, and Adam heard Well pleased, but answered not ; for now too nigh Q3I The Archangel stood, and from the other hill To their fixed station, all in bright array, 601. For by, for It shall come 611. advist. inform. by. See Galatians iv. 4, 5. 627. Jixed, appointed f)03. unanimous, agreeing. Book XII.] PARADISE LOST. 387 riie Cherubim descended ; on the ground Gliding meteorous, as evening mist Risen from a river o'er the marish glides, 030 And gathers ground fast at the laborer's heel Homeward returning, fligh in front advanced The bi-andished sword of God before them blazed Fierce as a comet, which with torrid heat, And vapor as the Libyan air adust, 636 Began to parch that temperate clime ; whereat In either hand the hastening angel caught Our lingering parents, and to the eastern gate Led them direct, and down the cliff as fast To the subjected plain ; then disappeared. 540 'They, looking back, all the eastern side beheld Of Paradise, so late their happy seat, Waved over by that flaming brand, the gate With dreadful faces thronged and fiery arms. Some natural tears they dropped, but wiped them soon ; 645 The world was all before them, where to choose Their place of rest, and Providence their guide. They, hand in hand, with wandering steps and slow Through Eden took their solitary way. 630. marish, marsh. 641. eastern side. •' At the east 631. gathers, gains. of the garden of Eden." Genesis 634. tuhich, the sword. — tor- iii. 24. rid, burning. 643. brand, sword. 635. as the Libyan air adust, 644. dreadful, inspiring with parched as the air of the Libyan awe. desert. — adust. See VI. 514. 649. Through Eden. The gar 640. subjected, lying below or den was planted " in Eden.» tnder. A Latinism , Genesis ii, 8 See IV 210-216. INDEX OF WELL-KNOWN LINES AND PASSAGES ibandon fear ; to strength and counsel joined rtiink nothing iard, much less to be despaired, vi 494. Abashed the Devil stood, A.nd felt how awful goodness is, and saw Virtue in her shape how lovely, iv. 846. A. bevy of fair women, richly gay 'n gems and wanton dress, xi. 582. Able to drive All sadness but despair, iv. 155. Above the flight of Pegasean wing. vii. 4. A broad and ample road, whose dust is gold, And pavement stars, as stars to thee appear, vii. 67#. Adam, the goodliest man of men .'ince born ILs sons, the fairest of her daughters Eve. iv. 323. A death, like sleep, A gentle wafting to immortal life. xii. 434. A grateful mind By owlhg owes not, but still pays, at once Indebted and discharged, iv. 55. A happy rural seat of various view. iv. 247. A lazar-house it seemed, wherein were laid Numbers of all diseased, xi. 479. A Limbo large and broad, since called The Paradise of Fools, iii. 495. All good to me becomes Bane, and in Heaven much worse would be my state, tx. 122 AJl is not lost ; the unconquerable will, And study of revenge, immortal hate, ind courage never to submit or yield, ind what is else not to be overcome, i. 106. 390 INDEX. Ml what we affirm or what deny, and call Our knowledge or opinion, v. 107. ^ mind not to be changed by place or time. i. 253. And feel that I am happier than I know. viii. 282. And men, not beasts, shall be his game. xii. 30. And sowed with stars the heaven thick as a field, vii. 858. And what she did, whatever in itself, Her doing seemed to justify the deed. x. 141. Anger and just rebulce, and judgment given, ix. 10. Answering scorn with scorn, iv. 834. A passage broad, Smooth, easy, inoffensive, down to Ilell. x. 304. A pillared shade High over-arched, and echoing walks between, is. 1100 Argues no leader, but a liar traced, iv. 949. Assert eternal Providence, And justify the ways of God to men. i. 25. Awake, arise, or be forever fallen ! i. 330. A wilderness of sweets, v. 294. Best quitted with disdain. ' iv. 770. Better to reign in Ilell than serve in Ileaven. i. 263. Bring to their sweetness no satiety, viii. 216 But ever to do ill our sole delight, i. 160. But not in silence holy kept. vii. 594. By his gait, None of the meanest, xi. 230. By merit raised To that bad eminence, ii. 5. Celestial rosy red, love's proper hue. viii. 619. Cheered with the grateful smell old Ocean smiles. Iv. 16&. Choosing rather Inglorious life with servitude, xii. 219. Close ambition, varnished o'er with zeal. M. 48&> Confusion won>e confounded, ii. 996. INDEX. 391 Consider first, that great Or bright infers not excellence, viii. 90. Convict by flight, and rebel to all law. x. 83. Creature so fair his reconcilement seeking, x. 943. Daughter of God and Man, accomplished Eve. iv. 660. Demoniac phrenzy, moping melancholy, And mocn-struck madness, piuiug atrophy, xi. 485. Destined man himself to judge man fallen, x. tS Destroyers rightlier called, and plagues of men. xi. 097. Differing but in degree, of kind the same. v. 490. Dim sadness did not spare That time celestial visages, yet mixed With pity violated not their bliss, x. 23. Dwells in all Ileaven charity so dear ? iii. 216. Earth felt the wound ; and Nature from her seat, Sighing through all her works, gave signs of woe That aU was lost. ix. 782. Earth hath this variety from Ileaven. vi. 640. Earth in her rich attire Consummate lovely smiled, vii. 501. Earth now Seemed like to Ileaven, a seat where gods might dwell, Or wander with delight, and love to haunt Her sacred shades, vii. 323. Ease would recant Vows made in pain, as violent and void. iv. 96. Empty of all good wherein consists Woman's domestic honor and chief praise, xi. 616. Eternal silence be their doom. vi. 386- Even in Ileaven his looks and thoughts l\ ere downward bent. 1.680. Every star perhaps a world Of destined habitation, vii. 621. Cril, be thou my good. iv. 110. 892 INDEX. Evil into the mind of God or man May come and go, so unapproved, and leave No spot or blame behind, v. 117. Exhausted, spiritless, afiiicted, fallen, vi. 852 Fancy that they feel Divinity within them breeding wings, ix. 1009. Fierce hate he recollects, ix. 471. Firm peace recovered soon, and wo'hted cahn. v 210. F.owers of all hue, and without thorn the rose. iv. 256. For contemplation he and valor formed. For softness she and sweet attractive grace, iv. 297. Forth rushed in haste the great consulting peers, x. 458 From her best prop so far, and storm so nigh. ix. 433. From mom To noon he fell, from noon to dewy eve, A summer's day. i. 742. Gentle airs, due at their hour. To fan the earth now waked, and usher in The evening cool. x. 93. God and good angels guard by special grace, ii. 1033. God is thy law, thou mine ; to know no more Is woman's happiest knowledge and her praise, iv. 637. Golden days, fruitful of golden deeds, iii. 337. Good, the more Communicated, more abundant grows, v. 71. Goodness thinlis no ill Vhere no ill seems, iii. 688. Gorgons, and Hydras, and Chimaeras dire. ii. 628 Grace that won who saw to wish her stay, vlii 4& Grace was in all her steps, heaven in her eye, In every gesture dignity and love. viii. 488. Breatly instructed I shall hence depart, xii. 557. Grinned horrible a ghastly smile, ii. 846. Hail, holy Light, offspring of Heaven first-bom ! Iii. 1. 5alf yet remains unsung, vii 21 TNLEX. 393 Happier thou mayst be, worthier caiut not be v. 76. lie above the rest In shnpe and gesture proudly eminent Stood like a tower, i. 689. He For dignity composed and high exploit, ii. 110. Heaven opened wide tier ever-during gates, harmonious sound On golden hinges moving, vii. 205. [lencefbrth I learn, that to obey is best, And love with fe;ir the only Uod. xii. 5G1 Herself a fairer flower, iv. 270. Hide their diminished heads, iv. 85. High on a throne of ro3'al state, which far Outshone the wealth of Ormus and of Ind. ii. 1. Him first make sure your thrall, and lastly kill. x. 40S- His best of man. xi. 497. His form had yet not lost All her original brightness, i. 591. His former name Is heard no more in Heaven, v. 653. ULs gentle ditmb expression. Is. 527. His journey's end, and our beginning woe. iii. 633. Hope conceiving from despair, vi. 787. Hope elevates and joy Brightens his crest, ix. 633. Hope never comes That comes to all. i. 66. How glad would Lay me down, As in uiy mother's lap I x. 777. Hurled to and fro with jaculation dire. vi. 666. Hypocrisy, the only evil that walks Invisible except to God alone, iii. 683. Imaginations, aery shapes, v. 105 In a troubled sea of passion tost. x. 718. In himself was all his state, v. 863. 894 INDEX. In memory Or monument to ages. xi. 325. In mystic dance not without song. v. 178. In small room large heart enclosed, vii. 486. In solitude rrhat happiness, who can enjoy alone, Or, ali enjoying, wh-_t contentment find ? riii. 364. In telling wound, AJid in performing end us. xi. 2'J9. In the lowest deep a lower deep. iv. 76. In vain, If none regard, v. 43. In wished hour Of my revenge, first sought for. vi. 150. In word mightier than they in arms, vi 32. Knowledge of good bought dear by knowing ill. iv Like in punishment, ha in their crime, x. 544. Lives there who loves his pain ? iv. 888. Long choosing, and beginning late, ix, 26. Love was not in their looks, either to God Or to each other, x. 111. ilajestic though in ruin. ii. 305. Make the worse appear The better reason, ii. 113. Mammon, the least erected spirit that fell From llcaven. i. G79. Me miserable ! which way shall I fly Infinite wrath and mfinite despair ? iv. 73. Men who attend the altar, and should most Endeavor peace, xii. 354. Millions of spiritual creatures walk the earth Unseen, both when we wake and when we Pleep. !▼. 877 My early visitation, and my last i* even. xi. 275. INDEX, 395 NameleM in dark oblivion let them dwell, yi. 3S0. Necessity, The tyrant's plea. iv. 393. Night Invests the sea, and wished morn delays, i. 207. No falsehood can endure Pouch of celestial temper, but returns Of force to its own likeness, iv. 811. No light, but rather darkness visible, i. 63. Nor ever saw till now Sight more detestable than him and thee. ii. 744. Nor love thy life, nor hate ; but what thou liv'st Live well ; how long, how short, permit to lleaven. xi. 553. Nor number nor example with him wrought To swerve from truth, or' change his constant mind, Though single, v. 901. Nor think, though men were none, That heaven would want spectators, God want praise, iv. 675- Not to know me argues yourselves unknown, iv. 830. Now came still evening on, and twilight gray Had in her sober livery all things clad. iv. 598. Now I see Peace to corrupt no less than war to waste, xi. 783. Now learn too late How few sometimes may know, when thousands err. vi. 148 Now Mom, her rosy steps in the eastern clime Advancing, sowed the earth with orient pearl, v. i. O'er many a frozen, many a fiery Alp. ii. 620. fairest of creation, last and best Of all God's works ! ix. 896. Of Man's first disobedience, and the fruit Of that forbidden tree, whose mortal tjiste Brought death into the world and all our woe. i. 1. Oft invoked With vows, as their chief good and final hope. xi. 492. On some great charge employed Ha seemed, or fixed in cogitation deep. iii. 623. On their hinges grate Harsh thunder, ii. 881. 59 G INDEX. sacred name of faithfulness profaned ! iv. 951. 3 unexpected stroke, worse than of death ! xi. 268. Outrageous as a sea, dark, wasteful, wild. vii. 212. Part good, part bad ; of bad the longer scroll, xii. 3 Patiently resign What justly, thou hast lost. xi. 287. Perrerts best things To worst abuse, or to their meanest use. iv. 203. Reasoned high Of providence, foreknowledge, will, and fate, Fixed fate, free will, foreknowledge absolute ; And found no end, in wandering mazes lost. li. 558. Regardless whether good or evil fame. xii. 47. Revenge, at first though sweet, Bitter ere long back on itself recoils, ix. 171. Rose, like an exhalation, i. 711. Babean odors from the spicy shore Of Araby the Blest, iv. 1G2. Sagacious of his quarry from so far. x. 281. Sat hke a cormorant, iv. 196. Seems wisest, virtuousest, discreetest, best. viii. 6i Semblance of worth, not substance, i. 529. Shall, with their freedom lost, all virtue lose And fear of God. xi. 798. Shalt possess A paradise within thee, happier far. xii. 587. Sight of vernal bloom, or summer's rose, Or flocks, or herds, or himaan face divine, iii. 43 Siloa's brook, that flowed Fast by the oracle of God. i. 11. Bmit with the love of sacred song. iii. 29. Bo clomb this first grand thief into God's fold •, go into his church lewd hirelings climb, iv. 192. So farewell, hope ; and with hope, farewell fear ; 'i'arewell, remorse : all good to me is lost. iv. 108 INDEX. 39< Boft words to his fierce passion she assayed, x. 865. Bollcit not thy thoughts with matters liid. Tiii. 167. Solitude sometimes is best society, ix. 249. Bo saying, witn despatchful looks in haste She turns, on hospitable thoughts intent, v. 331. So spake the cherub ; and his grave rebuke, Severe in youthful beauty, added grace Invincible, iv. 844. So spake the seraph Abdiel, faithful found Among the faithless, faithful only he. v. 896. Such fatal consequence ULJtes us three, x. 364. Sweet interchange Of hill and valley, rivers, woods, and plains. Ix. 116. Sweet the coming on Of grateful evening mild. iv. 646. Tears, such as angels weep. i. 620. That space the evil one abstracted stood From his own evil. ix. 463. That suffering for truth's sake Is fortitude to highest victory, xii. 569. That would be wooed, and not unsought be won. viii. 60S. The better fortitude Of patience and heroic martyrdom Unsung, ix. 31. The brazen throat of war had ceased to roar. xi. 713. The goodly prospect of some foreign land First seen. iii. 548. The height of this great argimient. i. 24. The invention all admired, and each how he To be the inventor missed, so easy it seemed Once found, which yet unfound most would have thought Impossible, vi. 498. The mind is its own place, and in it.self Can make a heaven of llell, a hell of Ueaven. I. 254. The perilous edge W battle when it raged, i." 276. Q'he tenier grass, whose verdure clad Ber aniversal lace with pleasant green, vii. 315. 398 INDEX. Tbe work some praise, And some the architect, i. 731. The world was all before them where to choose Their place of rest, and Provideuce their guide, xii. 646 Then, when T am thy captive, talk of chaias. iv. 9V0. These are thy glorious works, Parent of good. Almighty ! thine this universjil fnmie. Thus wondrous fair ; thyself how wondrous then '. v. 153 Thick as autumnal leaves that strow the brooks In Vallombrosa. i. 302. This fair defect Of nature, x. 891. Things unattempted yet in prose or rhyme, i. 16. This intellectual being, These thoughts that wander througli eternity, ii. 147. This was all thy care. To stand approved in sight of God, though worlds Judged thee perverse, vi. 35. Though fallen on evil days. vii. 25. Thou, my shade Inseparable, must with me along, x. 249. Those graceful acts, Those thousand decencies, that daily liow From all her words and actions, viii. 600. To be weak is miserable, Doing or suffering, i. 157. To create Ib greater than created to destroy, vii. C06. To sing, to dance, To dress, and troll the tongue, and roll the eye. xi. 619. To suffer, as to do, Our strength is equal, ii. 199. To vice industriotLs, but to nobler deeds tjimorous and slothful, ii. 116. Tyranny must be, riiough to the tyrant thereby no excuse, xii. 95. Inder amazement of their hideous change, i. S13. INDEX. 399 Upheld by old repute, Uonsent, or custom, i. 039. Unpractised, unprepared, and still to seek. Viii. 197. Fain wisdom ail, and false philosophy, ii. 565. War seemed a civil game To this uproar, vi. 6G7. Was filled With admiration and deep muse, to hear Of things so high and strange, vii. 51. Was the first That practised falsehood under saintly show. iv. 121 UTiat in me is dark Illmnine, what is low raise and support, i. 22. What pleasing seemed, for her now pleases more. ix. 463. \7hat seemed his head rhe Ukeness of a kingly crown had on. ii. 672. Whence and what art thou, execrable shape ? ii. 681. Wliere honor due and reverence none neglects, iii. 733 Which way I fly is hell ; myself am hell. iv. 75. Which, were it toilsome, yet with thee were sweet. It. 439. While day arises, that sweet hour of prime, v. 170. ■^Vlaile yet we live, scarce one short hour perhaps, Between us two let there be peace, x. 923 . Who overcomes By force, hath overcome but half his foe. i. 648. Who shall tempt with wandering feet The dark unbottomed infinite abyss ? ii. 404. Who, to surprise One man, assassin-like had levied war, War unproclaimed. xi. 218. WiL prove no sudden, but a slow-paced evil. x. 963. Wisdom at one entrance quite shut out. iii. 6C With fear of change Perplexes monarchs. i. 598. With gray* Lsp«ct he rose, and in his rising seemed A pillar of state, ii. 300. 400 INDEX. With show of zeal and love To man, and indication at his %vTong. ix. 666- U'ith thee conversing, I forget all tiniP. iv. 639. With thee to go, Is to stay here ; without thee here to stay, Is to go hence unwilhng. xii 61f> Yet th^ post Hot of m«au suiton. zi. 8 INDEX. Aaron's breastplate, iii 598. (Lbana and Pharphar, i. 469. Abariin, i. 408. Abdiel (a seraph), opposes Satan, V. 805-907 ; is applauded, vi. 21-'i3 ; encounters Satan, vi. 107-198 ; overthrows three of the follen angels, vi. 369-372. Abominations, the shrines of heathen gods, i. 389. Abraham, xii. 113-153, 273. Abraham's faith, xii. 449. Accaron and Gaza's frontier bounds, i. 466. Acheron (a river of Ilell), ii. 578. Achilles, i.x. 15. Adam and Eve first described, iv. 288-324. Adam, our second, xi. 383 Address to Light, iii. 1-55. Adonis, i. 450 ; ix. 440. Adramelech and A.smadai, vi. 365. Adria, i. 520. Adversary (Satan), ii. 629; adver- sary-serpent, xii. 312. ^tna" i. 233 ; Mtna. flames, iii. 470. Afer (wind from Africa), x. 702. Afric shore, i. 585. Agra and Labor, cities of the Great Mogul, xi. 391. Ahaz. king of Judah. i. 472. Aialon (or Ajalon), xii. 266. Aladule, x. 435. Alcairo, i. 718. Alcides, ii. 542. Alcinous, V. 341 ; ix. 441. Aleian field, vii. 19. Almausor, xi. 403. Amalthca, the mother of Bacchus, iv. 278. Amara, Mount, iv. 281. Amarant, a flower transplanted 26 from Paradise to IleaTen, UI 353-364. Amazonian targe, ix. 1111. American, ix. 1116. Ammiral, i. 294. Ammon, Ammonian Jove, iv. 277; ix. 508. Amram's son. i. 339. Anarch old (Chaos), ii. 988. Andromeda (the constellation^ iii. 659. Angola, xi. 401. Aouian mount 'seat of the Muses), i. 15. Apostles, their mission and their work, xii. 4.38-450, 479-507. Apple, fruit of the Tree of Knowl- edge so called, x. 487 ; ix. 585. Araby the Blest, iv. 163 ; Arabian shore, iii. 537. Arcadian pipe, xi. 132. Argo (the ship), ii. 1017. Argob (and Basan), i. 398. Argument of the poem, i. 1-26 ; ix. 1-47. Argus (the hundred-eyed), xi. 131. Ariel, Arioch, and llamiel, van- quished by Abdiel, vi. 369-371. Aries (the sign), x. 329. Arimaspiitn, ii. 945. Ark (Noiih's). its building des- cribed, xi. 728-732, 819. Ark of the covenant, i. 458 ; xii 249-251. 333, 340. Arnon (the river), i. 399. Aroer, i. 407. Asmodeus (an evil spirit), iv. 168. Asphaltic pool, i. 411 ; slime, x. 298. Aspramont or Montalban, i 583. Assyrian mount, iv. 126 ; gardea iv. 285. Astoreth (or Astarte), i. 437-443. 402 INDEX. Astracan (Astrachan), x. 432, Astrea (the constellation), iv. 998. Astronomer (probably Galileo), iii. 589. Atabalipa (Inca of Peru), xi. 409. Athens, where eloquence flourish- ed, ix. 671. Atlas mount, xi, 402 ; iv. 987- Atlantean shoulders, ii. 300. Atlantic seas, iii. 559 ; Sisters, x. 674. Auran (or Ilaran), iv. 211. Aurora's fan, v. 6. Ausonian land (Italy), 1. 739. Authentic will, iii. 656 ; fire, iv. 719. Azazel, Satan's standard-bearer, i.534. Azores, iv. 592. Azotus, the seat of the temple of Dagon, i. 464. Baalim and Ashtaroth (repre- sented as fallen angels), i. 422. Babel, i. 694 ; iii. 466 ; its building described, xii. 37 -62. Babylon, i. 717 ; place of the Cap- tivity, xii. 342-345. Bacchus hid, iv. 279 ; and his revellers, vii. 33. Bactrian Sophi, x. 433. Baptism, what the Sign of, xii. 442-444 ; baptized, the Holy Spirit given to all such, xii. 497-500. Barbaric pearl and gold, ii. 4. Barca or Gyrene d torrid soil, ii. 904. Battles and single combats be- tween the faithful and rebel- lious angels described, vi. 198- 866. Beasts, their creation described, vii. 449-474. Beelzebub, next in power to Sa- tan, i. 78-81 ; his first reply to Satan after their fall from Heaven, i. 128-155 ; second reply, i. 271-282 ; speech in council, ii. 300-385. Beersaba (Becrsheba), iii. 536. Behemoth, biggest born of earth, vii. 471. tJelial, (and his sons), i. 490-502; described, ii. 108-117 ; speech in council, u. 119-228; his scoffing words, vi. 620-62^ Belleiophon, bis fall from Pega- sus, vii. 18. "Bellona (goddess of war), ii. 922. Belus (or Bel, a Babylonish idol), i. 720. Bengala (Bengal), ii. 638. Bethel, (and Dan), i. 485. Birds, their creation described, ?*K 417-446. Biserta, i. 585. Bizance (Byzantium), xi. 395. Blindness, reference of the poet to his own, iii. 22-50 ; vii. 27. Borfsas and Csecias and Argestea k ud and Thrascias (windJs), X. 699. Bosporus, passage of Argo through, ii. 1018. Bower of Adam and Eve in Para- dise described, iv. 689-708. Briareos (the hundred-handed), i. 199 Bridge built by Sin and Death from Hell to Earth over Chaos, ii. 1023-1033 ; x. 282-320. British and Armoric knights, i 581. Busiris (Pharoah), i. 307. Cain and Abel, their story related, xi. 429^47. Calabria, ii. 661. Cambalu, seat of Cathaian Can, xi. 388. Canaan, its limits described, xii. 135-145 ; its conquest, xii. 260- 269. Cape of Hope, iv. 160. Capricorn (the sign), x. 677. Carmel, Mount, xii. 144. Carol (song of the angels), xii 367. Casius, Mount, ii. 593. Caspian, description of a tempest on that sea, ii. 714-718. Castalian spring, iv. 274. Cathaian coast, x. 293; Can (ot Khan), xi. 388. Causey to Hell-gate, x, 415. Foi description, see Bridge. Celtic (fields), i. 521. Centaur (the sign SagittariuB), X. 328. Cerberean mouths, ii. 655. Ceres, the mother of Proserpine iv. 271; goddess of grain, It INDEX. 403 981 ; Eye compared to her, be. 395. Dhani (Ilam), iv. 276 ; son of Noah, xii. 101-104. Chaos, his realm described, ii. 8yi-91t5 : vii. 211-215 ; his court, ii. a5t»-yiJ7 ; his reply to Satan, ii. 990-1009. Charleniain, i. 586. Charybdis, ii. 1020. Chemos (or I'eor), the god of the Moabites. i. 406^18. Cherisouese (the Golden), xi. 392. Chinia;ras dire, ii. 628. Chinescs, iii. 438. Chivalry (cavalry), i. 307 ; Panim, i. 765. Church, hirelings in it, iv. 193. Circean (relating to the sorceress Circe), ix. 522. Cleombrotus. iii. 471-473. Cocy tus (a river of Hell), ii. 579. Columbus, ix. 1116. Comet, Satan compared to one, ii. 707-711 ; the sword of God so compared, xii. 634. Commonalty, popular tribes of, vii. 489. Congo, xi. 401. Conjugal obedience woman's hap- . piuess, iv. 034-638. Conscience God's umpire in man, iii. 194-197 ; its terrors, iv. 23- 26 ; x. 842. Constellations, their starry dance, iii. 5S0. Crab (the sign Cancer), x. 675. Creation described, iii. 708^-721 : vii. 221-557. Crete and Ida, i. 514. Cronian sea, x. 290. Cusco in Peru, xi. 408. Cyclades, v. 2*34. Cytherea's son (iEneas), ix. 19. Damascus, i. 468 ; Damasco, i. 584. Danaw (Danube), i. 353. David, promise made to him, xii. 820-330, 345-347. Death and Sin, their station at the gates of Hell, ii. 649 ; x. 229-234 ; their union inseparable, x. 251 ; their bridge, x. 282-320 ; their journey to the earth, x. 410-414 ; their arrival in Paradise, x. 585- 690 ; their work there, x. 610- 613 ; their doom, x. 632-637. Death nitural, its many shapes, xi. 466-493; to the faithful, a sleep, xii. 435, and the gate of hfe, xii, 571. Delia (Diana), comparison of Eve to her, ix. 388-390. Delos or 8amo.s first appearing, V. 265 , Delos, floating once, x. 296. Delphian cliff, i. 517. Deluge described, xi. 738-753, 824-835. Deniogorgon, the dreaded name, ii. 965. Despair, Satan's, iv. 73-110. DeucaUon and chaste Pvrrha, xi. 12. Dict.nean Jove, x. 584. Dinner in Paradise, prepared by Eve, V. 303-.307, 331-349. 391- 395 ; partaken of, v. 433-445. Dis(Pluto), iv. 270. Discord, the daughter of Sin, her works, X. 707-714 ; censured, ii 496-505. Divan (council), x. 457. Dodona, i. 518. Dominic (founder of an order of friars), iii. 4?9. Dominion absolute of man over man condemned, xii. 64-71. Dorado (El Dorado, the Gilded or Golden), xi. 411. Dorian mood (measure), i. 550. Doric land, i. 519 ; pillars, i. 714. Dothan, xi. 217. Dove sent forth from the Ark, xi. 856-860. Dreams, of Eve, inspired by Satan, iv. 799-809 ; related by her to Adam, v. 28-93 ; accounted for by him, v. 100-121 ; of Adam, viii. 285-311, 460-480 ; of Eve, inspired by the archangel, xii. 594-597, 6il ; of Jacob, iii. 610- 515. Drop serene (gutta serena, a cause of blindness), iii. 25. Eagle becomes a bird ef prey, a consequence of the Fall, xi. 184- 186. Earth, its creation, vii. 232-242; the shadow of Heaven, v. 574- 676 ; apostrophized and praised by Satiin, ix. 99-118. 404 INDEX. Ecbatan (Ecbatana, a city of Per- sia), xi. 3'J3. Eden, its situation, iv. 209-215. Egypt, her gods, i. 476^89; the descendants of Abraham there, xii. 155-172 ; its plagues, xii. 173-21'1 ; Egypt's evil day, i. 339. Eleale (in the country of Moab), i. 411. Election asserted, iii. 183, 184. Eli's sons, i. 495. Elysium, Plato's, iii. 472 ; Elysian lowers, iii. 359. Erapedocles (a philosopher), his fate, iii. 471. Enna, field of, iv. 269. Enoch, his story related, xi. 664- 671 ; his translation, xi. 700- 709. Epidaurus, ix. 507. Ercoco, the port of Negus, xi. 398. Erebus (the place of darkness), ii. 883. Estotiland, x. 686. Ethiop line, iv. 282 ; Ethiopian (sea), ii. 641. Euboic sea, ii. 546. Euphrates, i. 420 ; xii. 114. Europe with Asia joined, x. 310. Eurus and Zephyr, x. 705. Eurynome (wide-encroaching), x. 581. Eve's soliloquy, before eating the fruit, ix. 745-779 ; after eating it, ix. 795-833 ; on the threat- ened expulsion from Paradise, xi. 268-285. Evening, in Paradise, iv. 598- 609 ; X. 92-95 ; hymn, iv. 720- 735. Evil, when blameless, v. 117-119. Ezekiel, his vision, i. 455. Faith, not void of works, the con- dition of offered life, xii. 425- 427 ; justification by, xii. 294r- 299 ; the law of, xii. 488-490. Fancy, its office, v. 100-113 ; in- ternal sight, viii. 461 ; apt to rove, viii. 188. Fate the will of God, vii. 173. Faunus (a rural divinity), iv. 708. Fesole, near Florence, i. 289. Fez and Sus, xi. 403. Fig-tree described, ix. 1101-1110. firmament described, vii. 261- 275. Fish, their creation Jescril)«d, fil 387-416. Flaming sword at the gate ol Paradise, xii. 592, 632-643. Flood. See Deluge. Fontarabbia, i. 587. Freedom, its loss the loss of vir- tue, xi. 798. Free grace declared, iii. 173-182^ 227-231. Free will asserted, iii. 95-111 ; ix 350. Franciscan (weeds), iii. 480. Furies, harpy-footed, ii. 596. Gabriel, his station at the gatfl of Paradise, iv. 549-554 ; hia charge, iv. 561-563 ; appointed one of the chiefs of the celestial army, vi. 45-47 ; his prowess in battle, vi. 354-362. Galileo, the astronomer, men- tioned, V. 262 : doubtless re- ferred to, i. 287-291 ; iii. 589- 590. Ganges or Ilydaspes, Indian streams, iii. 4.36 ; Gauges and Indus, ix. 82. Garden of Eden described, iv. 214-287 ; by Adam, viii. 303- 307 ; gardens feigned, ix. 439- 441. Gate of Heaven described, iii. 504- 509 ; of Paradise, iv. 543-548 ; gates of Hell, ii. 643-648. Gath and Ascalon (cities of the Philistines), i. 465. Gehenna, the type of Hell, i. 405. Gentiles (heathens), iv. 277 ; (Greeks), xii. 310. Geryon's sons (Spaniards^, xi. 410. Giants before the Flood, iii. 463- 465 ; xi. 638-642. Gibeah. i. 504. Gibeon, xii. 265. Gibraltar, i. 355. Glory, commonly so called, ad. 688-699. Golgotha (the place of the Cruet fixion), iii. 477. Gordian twine, iv. 348. Gorgons, ii. 628 ; Wedusa one of them, ii. 611; x. 527. Goshen (in Egypt), i. 309. Grace resisted, consequences o| iii. lO'S-202. Graces (attendants of Venus), If 267. INDEX. 405 Suiana, yet unspoiled, xi. 410. Sunpowder, its invention ascribed to Satan, vi. 470-491, 508-520. Hallelujahs, heavenly, vi. 742- 745. Hamath, on the north of the Promised Land, xii. 139. Haran (in Mesopotamia), xii. 131. Heaven, its joys described, iii. 344-371 Hell, its horrors portrayed, i. 59-75. Hellespont, bridged over, x. 309. Hercules, his rage, ii. 542-546 ; Herculean Samson, ix. 1060. Hermes (Mercury), iii. 603; iv. 717 i xi 133 ; Maia's son, v. 285. Hermione (Ilarmonia) and Cad- mus, changed to serpents, ix. 506. Hermon, Mount, xii. 142. Hesebon and Iloronaim (cities of the Moabites), i. 408. Hesperus (the western or evening star), iv. 605 ; ix. 48-51 ; Hes- perian, fields (Italy), i. 520; gardens (islands of the Ilesper- ides), iii. 568 ; fables true, iv. 250 ; isles, viii. 632. Hierarchs, chiefs of the heavenly orders, v. 587. Hinnom, the valley of, i. 404. Hispahan, a city of Persia, xi. 3t^i. Holy Land, its southern border, iii. 538. Hosannas, heavenly, iii. 348 ; vi. 205. Holy Spirit, descent of, xii. 485- 502. Hours (goddesses of the seasons), iv. 267 ; vi. 3. Hunter, the lion for the first time such after the Fall, xi. 187- 189. Uyaline. the glassy sea, vii. 619. l[ydras, ii. 628. Hymen, the god of marriage, xi. 691 : hymenasan (nuptial song), iv. 711. Ida, Mount, v. 382. Idolatry, the original rise of it assigned, i. 358-375 ; after the Flood, xii. 115-120 ; of Israel, i. 4.32-437, 482-489 ; of Judah. L 456 ; and of its kings, xii. 337. lUyria, ix. 505. Imaus (snowy ridge), iii. 431. Immortality, lost and gained, xi 57-66. Incense, in Heaven, vii. 599 ; xi. 18 ; of flowers in Paradise, ix. 192-197. India, East or West, v. 339 ; In- dian mount, i. 781 ; streams, iii. 436; Indians (East), ix. 1102; Ind, ii. 2. Innocence in Paradise before the Fall, V. 209, 379-385. 445-150. Invocation, of the heavenly :Muse, i. 1-16 ; vii. 1-39 ; of the celes- tial Light, iii. 51-55. Ionian gods, of Javan's issue, i 508. Iris (goddess of the rainbow), xi 244. Israelites, their bondage in_Egypt and deliverance, xii. 167-216 ; their establishment in Canaan, xii. 258-269; under judges and kings, xii. 315-343 ; their cap- tivity, return, and after-dissen- sions, xii. 344-a58. Ithuriel (and Zephon, guardian angels of Paradise), iv. 788, 868; touches Satan with his spear, iv. 810. Jacob, his flight and dream, iii. 510-515 ; his meeting with angels in Mahanaim, xi. 213- 215. Jesus, son of Mary, x. 183. John, he who saw the Apocalypse, iii. 623; iv. 1. Jordan, true limit (of Canaan) eastward, xii. 145. Joseph in Egypt, xii. 160-163. Joshua (or Jesus), xii. 310. Jove (Jupiter), i. 512,514 ; Libyan, iv. 277 ; ix. 508 ; Capitoline, ix. 508. Juno's ir", ix. 18. Justification (by faith), xii. 296. Kings, Memphian, i. 694 ; Gre- cian, iv. 212 ; Abassin, iv. 280 j Sinaean, xi. 390 ; of Judah, xii. 329-336. Knowledge, without restraint, not wisdom, vii. llS-130 ; Tlil 406 INDEX. 188-197 ; xii. 557-560 ; of future events, not to be desired, xi. 770-776. Lament, Eve's, xi. 268-285, Lapland witches, ii. 665. Laviuia disespoused, ix. 17. Law, given to the Israelites, xii. 227-232, 287 ; imperfect, xii. 289-300 ; its fulfilment, xii. 393- 404 ; of faith, xii. 488-490 ; of woman, iv. 637 ; in Paradise, ix. 652-654. Lemnos, the ^gean isle, i. 746. Leo (the .sign), x. 676. Lethe (a river of Hell), ii. 582-586 ; its waters forbidden to the damned, ii. 604-614. Levant and Ponent wind.=!, x. 704. Leucothea (white-goddess), xi. 135. Leviathan described, i. 200-208 ; vii. 412-416. Liberty, its loss, xii. 82-90. Libra (the sign), iii. 558. Libyan sands, i. 355. Lichas, ii. 545. Light, address to, iii. 1-55 ; its creation described, vii. 243-256. Life, length of, secured, xi. 630- 537. Limbo, or Fools' Paradise, iii. 495. Locusts, the plague of, i. 338-343 ; xii. 185. Love, true, described, viii. 586- 593. Lucifer (Satan), why so called, x. 425. Mseonides (Homer), iii. 35. Ma20tis, the pool, ix. 78. Magellan, x. 687. Malabar, or Decan, ix. 1103. Mammon (represented as a fallen angel), described, i. 678-688 ; his speech in council, ii. 229- 283. Man, why created, iii. 678-680 ; his creation described, vii. 524- 635. Mary, second Eve, v. 387 ; x. 183. )Jedia, iv. 171. Mediator, the Son sent as. x. 58- 62 ; prefigured, xii. 240-244. Medusa. See Gorgons. Megaera (one of the Furies), x. 560. Meliboean (purple), xi. 243. Memphiau chivalry, i. 307 ; king%. i. 694. Mercy, God's brightest attribute. iii. 132-134. Messiah (the Anointed), pro- claimed, iii. 315-322 ; v. 600-608 ; his times foretold, xii. 243; his birth, xii. 360-3G9 ; his life, death, and resurrection, xii! 402-425 ; his ascension, xii, 436, 451 ; his coming to judgment, xii. 458^63 ; iii. 523-338. Mexico, the seat of Monteznme, si. 4(J7. Michael (the archangel), prince of celestial armies, vi. 44 ; hia combat with Satan, vi. 29&- 327 ; .sent to expel man from Paradise, xi. 99-125 ; his ap- pearance there, xi. 238-248 ; leads forth Adam and Eve, xii. 636-640. Moloch (represented as a fallen angel), and his worship, des- cribed, i. 392^05 ; ii. 43-50 ; his speech in the council, ii. 51- 105 ; his combat with Gabriel, vi. 354-362. Mombaza, and Melind, xi. 399. Moon, her office, iii. 726-732 ; her light, iv. 606-609 ; her creation described, vii. 356, 375-382. Morning in Paradise, v. 1-8 ; ix. 192-200. Morning hymn, v. 153-208 Morocco, i. 584 ; and Algiers ani\ Tremisen, xi. 404. Mosco (seat of the Russian Ksar) xi. 395. Moses, and Aaron, their missioc to Egypt, xii. 170 ; not per. mitted to enter Canaan, xii. 307-309. Mulciber (Vulcan), i. 738-746. Muse, heavenly, invoked, i. l-13j 376 ; vii. 1-39 ; Muses nine, iii 27 ; vii. 6 ; the Muse (Calliope), vii. 37. Nebo (Mount), i. 407. Neptune's ire, ix. 18. Niger Hood, xi. 402. Night de.'^cribed, v. 38-43; aft«l the Fall. x. 840-848. Nile (river of Egypt), i. 3-13, 413 iv. 283; xU. 157-159. INDEX. 407 Nimrod, his tyranny described, xii. 24-37, 63-60. Niphates' top, iii. 742. Nisroch (one of tlie rebel angels), and his speech, Ti. 447-468. Noah, his preaching, xi. 719-727 ; his descent from the Ark, xi. 861-8ai. Noon in Paradise, v. 300-304. Noruiubega, x. 696. Norway foam, i. 203; Norwegian hills, i. 293. Notus and Afer (w'uds), x. 702. Nyseian isle, iv. 275. Ob, the riTer, ix. 78. Obedience, of will not of necessity, acceptable to God, iii. 98-107 ; V. 531-540. (Echalia (in Thessaly), ii. 542. (Eta (Mount), ii. 545. Old age described, xi. 535-546. Oly m plan games or Pythian fields, ii. 530. Ophion (serpent), x. 581. Ophiuchus (or Serpentarius, a constellation), ii. 7U9. Ophiusa, the isle of serpents, x. 528. Ops, X. 584. Orcus and Ades, ii. 964. Oread or Dryad, ix. 387. Oreb (Mount Uoreb), 1. 7, 484; xi. 74. Orion (constellation), i. 305. Ormus, ii. 2. Orontes (river of Syria), iv. 273 ; ix. 80. Orpheus, the Thracian bard, vii. 33-33 ; Orphean lyre, iii. 17. Osiris, Isis, Orus (Egyptian gods), i. 478. Oxus, xi. 389. Padan-aram, iii. 513. Palace and throne of Satan in Hell, i. 710-730 ; x. 443-447. Pales, ix. 393. Palatine, coast of, i. 465. Pan, iv. 266, 707. Pandemonium, i. 756 ; x. 424 Pandora^ iv. 714-719. Paneas, iii. 535. Paquin (Pekin), xi. 390. Paradise (garden of E'ien), de- scribed, iv. 131-159 ; v. 291-297 ; Tiu. 303-308 ; ix. 434-443 ; seat of it destroyed by the Flood, zi 829-835. Patriarchs, their story related, xil 114-164 ; patriarchal govern' ment described, xii. 13-24. Pegasean wing, vii. 4. Pelorus, i. 232. Persecution, its i-ise in the church. and its elfects, xii. 508-539 Peter, Saint, iii. 484. Petsora, x. 292. Pharaoh (Busiris), his overthrow, i. 306-311 ; his realm, i. 342 ; xii. 162. Philistean Dalilah, ix. 1061. Phlegethon (a river of llell), ii. 580. Phlegra, i. 577. Plagues of Egypt described, xii. 173-190. Pleiades, vii. 374. Pomona, Ix. 394 ; Pomona's arbor V. 378. Pontus, V. 340 ; ix. 77. Prayer, its efficacy, xi. 143-148; unavailable against God's ab- solute decrees, xi. 307-314. Promised Land. iii. 531 ; xii. 172. Prophets (Hebrew), xii. 243. Proserpine (stolen by Dis), iv. 269-272 ; Proserpina, ix. 396. Proteus, iii. 604. Punic coast, v. 340. Pygmies, i. 575 ; Pygmean race, i 780. Python, X. 531; Pythian vale, x. 530 ; Pythian fields, ii. 530. Quiloa (in Africa), xi. 399. Rabba, i. 397. Rainbow, its first appearance after the Flood, xi. 864-v%7 ; the sign of God's covenant, xi. 895-901. Raphael (the angel), his descent to Paradise, v. 247-292 ; his re- lation to Adam of the revolt of Satan, v. 563-913 and Book vi. ; of the Creation, Rook vii; further discourse, Rook viii ; advice to Adam at parting, and ascent to Heaven, viii. 630-653. Reason, the chief faculty of the soul, V. 102; the being of the soul, V. 486-490 ; not wanting in the inferior creaturas, viii 374; made right, ix. 352-356; 408 INDEX. dwells with liberty, xii. 83-85, 97-101. Repentance, an effect of grace, ill. 185- rJO; xi. 1-8, 14-47; ac- ceptcil, iii. 191-197 ; of Adam and Eve, x. 1097-1104. Reprobation, state of, iii. 198-202. Reptiles and insects, tlieir crea- tion described, vii. 475-498. Resurrection of Messiah, xii. 420- 423. Rhea (mother of Jove), 1. 513; (stepd.ime of Bacchus), iv. 279. Rhene (Rhine), 1. 353. Rhodope, vh. 35. Rimmon (represented as one of Satan's foUowers), i. 467. RoQie, where eloquence flourished, ix. 671. Russian foe, x. 431 ; Ksar, xi. 394. Sabean (5dors, iv. 162. J?.t.vation by faith, xii. 447-450. Simarchand, xi. 389. Samoed shore, x. 696. Samos, V. 265. Samson, ix. 1059-1062. Sarra (Tyre), xi. 243. Satan (prince of the fallen angels), why .so called, i. 81 ; ii. 629 ; x. 386 ; described, i. 193-196, 589- 605; on the Tree of Life, iv. 194-201 ; at the ear of Eve, iv. 800. Satisfaction, required for man, iii. 210-212 ; offered, iii. 236 ; paid, xii. 415-419. Saturn (father of Jove), i. 512, 519 ; X. 583. Scriptures, written records, xii. 513. Scipio, the height of Rome, ix. 510. gcylla, ii. 660. Seasons, their changes an effect of the Fall, x. 649-678. Sechem (Sichem), xii. 136. Seleucia, iv. 212. Senir, xii. 146. Sennaar (Shinar), plain of, iii. 467 ; xii. 41. Seon's realm, i. 409. Serapis (an Egyptian god), i. 720. Berhonian bog. ii. 592. Bericana, iii. 438. ^rpent found and entered by Siitan, ix. 180-190. Serraliona (Sierra Leone), x. 70& Shield, Satan's described, i. 284> 291 ; vi. 255. Sibma, i. 410. Siloa's brook, i. 11. Sin (daughter of Satan) described^ ii. 650-659. Sinai (Mount), i. 7 ; xii. 227. Sirocco and Libecchio (winds), x 706. Sittim, i. 413. Sodom, i. 503 ; x. 562. Sofiila, thought Ophir, xi. 400. Solomon, his idolatry, i. 401, 444- 446 ; builds the Temple, xii. 332- 334. Spartan Twins (the sign Gemini) X. 674. Spear, Satan's described, i. 292- 29r3 ; IthuriePs. iv. 810. Spirit of God given, to the Apos ties, xii. 497-502 ; to aU be lievers, xii. 519. Standard, Satan's described, i 533-539 ; heavenly standards, t 588-594. Stars, their course, iv. 661-664 ; part of the fourth day's crea- tion, vii. 356-369 ; their dunce. V. 178, 620-627 ; viii. 125. Styx (a river of Hell), i.239 ; ii. 577 ; iii. 14. Sun, its brightne.'^s, iii. 591-597 ; apostrophized by Satan, iv. 32- 41 ; its creation described, vii. 354-363. Susa. X. 308. Sword, of Michael, ii. 294 ; vi. 250, 320-325 ; xi. 247 ; at th€ gate of Paradise, xi. 118-122: xii. 592, 632-636. Sylvanus, iv. 707. Tabernacle described, xii. 246- 257. Tantalus, ii. 614. Tarsus, i. 200. Tartar, iii. 432 ; x. 431. Ta-tarus, ii. 858 ; vi. 54 ; Tarta- rean sulphur, ii. 69. Tauris, x. 436. Taurus (the sign), i. 769 ; x. 673. Telassar, iv. 214. Temirs throne, xi. 389. Temperance, the effect of it long life, xi. 530-535. Temple, built by Solomon, xii INDEX. 409 881 ; destroyed, xii. 340 ; rebuilt xii. 348- a30. teneride, iv. 987. remate and Tidore, ii. 639. Thanimuz (repie.