Paradise Lost

Complete section guide

Twelve-book arrangement of the 1674 second edition, rather than the 1667 ten-book edition. Summaries contain spoilers; descriptive headings are editorial.

1. Book 1The fallen angels

   Satan rallies the fallen host on Hell’s lake. The demons build Pandemonium and assemble their council.

2. Book 2The council

   The demons choose to corrupt the new world. Satan passes Sin and Death and crosses Chaos.

3. Book 3Heaven’s answer

   The Son offers to redeem humanity. Satan deceives Uriel into directing him toward Earth.

4. Book 4Eden

   Satan envies Adam and Eve and attempts to influence Eve’s dreams. Gabriel’s guards discover him and he retreats.

5. Book 5The rebellion

   Raphael warns Adam and Eve and begins the story of Satan’s revolt. Abdiel alone rejects the rebels.

6. Book 6War in Heaven

   The angels fight with weapons and mountains. On the third day the Son drives the rebels out.

7. Book 7Creation

   Raphael recounts the six days of creation and the seventh day’s rest.

8. Book 8Adam’s memory

   Raphael cautions against speculative astronomy. Adam recalls his first consciousness and Eve’s creation.

9. Book 9The Fall

   Eve works apart from Adam and eats the fruit after Satan’s persuasion. Adam knowingly follows, bringing shame and accusation.

10. Book 10Judgment

    The Son judges the pair; Sin and Death enter the world. Adam and Eve move from despair to reconciliation and repentance.

11. Book 11Michael’s visions

    Michael announces exile and shows Adam murder, disease, war and the Flood.

12. Book 12Hope and exile

    Michael traces the history of redemption through Christ. Adam and Eve leave Eden strengthened by hope.

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