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Paradise Lost

Paradise Lost is an English epic poem by John Milton, first published in 1667 and expanded into twelve books in a 1674 edition.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Paradise Lost is an English epic poem by John Milton, first published in 1667 and expanded into twelve books in a 1674 edition. It retells the biblical story of the fall of Adam and Eve, beginning with Satan and the rebel angels in Hell and culminating in humanity’s expulsion from Eden. The poem is widely regarded as one of the greatest works in English literature.

Background

John Milton composed much of Paradise Lost after becoming blind, dictating the poem to scribes. The work reflects Christian theology, classical epic conventions, and Milton’s political and religious concerns.

Plot

The poem opens after Satan’s rebellion against God and his fall into Hell. It then shifts between Heaven, Hell, and Eden as Satan plots revenge, tempts Eve, and humanity falls from grace.

Form and style

Paradise Lost is an epic poem written in unrhymed iambic pentameter, also called blank verse. Its structure, invocation of the muse, and in medias res opening draw on classical epic models.

Reception and influence

The poem has long been considered a major achievement in English literature. Its depiction of Satan, in particular, has influenced later writers, poets, composers, and artists.

Key facts

  • The poem was originally published in 10 books in 1667 and later revised into 12 books in 1674.
  • It is written in blank verse and is more than 10,000 lines long.
  • Its opening begins in medias res with Satan and the fallen angels already defeated and cast into Hell.
  • The central narrative follows Satan’s temptation of Eve and the resulting expulsion of Adam and Eve from Eden.
  • Milton stated that one purpose of the poem was to “justify the ways of God to men.”

Frequently asked questions

Who wrote Paradise Lost?
Paradise Lost was written by the English poet John Milton.
When was Paradise Lost first published?
It was first published in 1667.
How many books does Paradise Lost have?
The first edition had 10 books; the revised 1674 edition has 12 books.
What is Paradise Lost about?
It tells the biblical story of the fall of Adam and Eve, including Satan’s rebellion, the temptation of Eve, and humanity’s expulsion from Eden.
What verse form is Paradise Lost written in?
It is written in blank verse, meaning unrhymed iambic pentameter.
Why is Paradise Lost important?
It is widely regarded as one of the greatest poems in the English language and a major work of Christian epic literature.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Paradise-Lost-epic-poem-by-Milton
    Supports: Authorship, publication history, genre, structure, subject, and literary significance.
  2. Loughborough University — https://www.lboro.ac.uk/subjects/english/undergraduate/study-guides/paradise-lost/
    Supports: First publication date, 10-book and 12-book editions, blank verse, length, and Milton’s blindness.
  3. LitCharts — https://www.litcharts.com/lit/paradise-lost/book-1
    Supports: Opening in medias res, Satan’s rebellion, and the poem’s central themes.
  4. American Literature — https://americanliterature.com/author/john-milton/book/paradise-lost/summary
    Supports: Plot overview, Milton’s stated aim, and major narrative events.