The Miltonic Smile - Exploring Similes in Paradise Lost

Explore Milton's masterful use of similes in Books One and Two of Paradise Lost in this 46-minute lecture from Yale University's ENGL 220 course. Delve into how Milton's similes support, undermine, and complicate the portrayal of Satan and the poem's broader themes of free will and divine providence. Examine critical perspectives from Geoffrey Hartman and Stanley Fish as you analyze key similes, including Satan's shield and spear, the moon, a ship's mast, falling leaves, and a belated peasant. Gain deeper insights into Milton's poetic techniques and their impact on the overall narrative and thematic structure of Paradise Lost.