Is Satan a Victim or a Perpetrator in Paradise Lost?

In John Milton's epic poem Paradise Lost, the role of Satan is often questioned. Many readers are left pondering whether he is a victim of a greater evil or a master of his own demons who deliberately perpetuates his wrongdoings. This essay will explore the perspectives that identify Satan as a perpetrator in Paradise Lost.

The Nature of Evil in Paradise Lost

According to Milton, Satan represents the highest form of evil in the universe. He is a being of immense power and intellect, who leads a rebellion against God. This rebellion does not come from a place of victimhood but rather from a place of rebellion and self-will. Satan is described as 'wretched and rebellious,' and his actions are the epitome of self-destruction. As Milton puts it in Book 1, 'of willful sin and of rebellion deep.'

Satan's Manipulation in Paradise Lost

Satan's deep-seated malevolence is evident in his manipulation of Eve and Adam. He is not a passive figure but an active agent of deception. In Book 9, when Satan enters Eden, he is described as possessing 'subtle guile.' He deceives Eve with the promise of neither death nor loss, leading her to consume the fruit of the tree of knowledge. This deliberate act by Satan sets in motion the chain of events that leads to their expulsion from Eden.

Consequences of Perpetuating Evil

The consequences of Satan's actions are severe and far-reaching. As a result of his deception and manipulation, Eve and Adam are expelled from Eden, a loss that, from a teleological perspective, can be seen as a test of their character. Their expulsion is not a punishment, but a necessary step for their growth and for the greater good. As Milton states, 'the step of right[,] our birthright given, / Was but the entrance into life's probation, / A road of suffering, a hard school of virtue' (Book 10).

Satan's Internal Struggles: Perpetrator vs. Victim

Satan's internal struggles are multifaceted. He is torn between the desire for power and the recognition of his defeat. In Book 1, he is described as 'tempteth man to sin, and sets himself against the throne of heaven.' Despite his internal turmoil and the rejection by God, Satan remains unperturbed and hones his craft. His actions are not a result of victimization but a manifestation of his own willpower. As a character, he epitomizes the human struggle for control and the often destructive nature of unchecked ambition.

The Subservience of the Senses

Satan's role as a perpetrator is also seen in his ability to control the senses of his victims. In Book 9, when he lures Eve into the garden, he uses the senses to her disadvantage. He describes the tree of knowledge as 'sweeter than their best cherries.' This manipulation of the senses is a key tool in his perverse agenda. Through this, he demonstrates his power over others and his ability to deceive. While Eve's will is ultimately tested and falls, this can be seen as a failure of her own judgment rather than a manipulation that stemmed from her initial victimhood.

Conclusion: Satan as a Perpetrator

From the examination of Paradise Lost, it is evident that Satan is a perpetrator, not a victim. His actions, driven by a willful sin and a rebellious spirit, are responsible for the expulsion of Eve and Adam from Paradise. His manipulation and deceit are the tools through which he perpetuates his evil. While the journey through life is filled with challenges, the responsibility for these challenges often lies with the choices we make. Satan's free will led him to make choices that had devastating consequences and not because he was a victim of a greater evil.

Keywords

Satan Paradise Lost Perpetrator Victim