Unleashed academics, tutors, and ornamental hermits Alice and Rowan
do a deep dive into dark hero archetypes on a semi-weekly basis.
This episode they continue their mini-series on John Milton’s
Paradise Lost and discuss the representation of Satan in books 1 and 2 of the
poem. They examine Milton's use of epic convention, Satan's characterisation,
speeches, and leadership of the rebel angels. They scatter in some more formal
discussion of important poetic devices, such as the invocation of the muse and
Milton's experimentation with epic similes. They develop their argument that
Satan is the first modern dark hero by discussing the ways Milton combines
heroic precedent and complicates expectations of the devil.
Rowan also develops a theme song.
Next episode, they examine Satan's role in books 4, 5, and 6 of the
poem.
Keep your eyes peeled for the teaser trailer for their introduction
to the gothic hero.
Recommended Text:
Milton, John. Milton: Paradise Lost.
Edited by Alastair Fowler. New York: Routledge, 2013.
