A Ray Of Light Through The Clouds

The controversies on Paradise Lost derive from different interpreting or misunderstanding of the work, especially of the image of Satan. It seems incomprehensible when Milton pronounces that he is to justify the ways of God to man while depicting Satan as a brilliant hero, which is a bold challenge of God's supreme authority in a Christianity-oriented society, and by which Milton has invited fierce criticism ever since its publication.The readers have long been puzzled by the author's true intention. To unravel this problem, we must look beyond the text and into a wider horizon. A literary work should be interpreted in the context of the social and cultural reality in which it is written so as to get a better and specific understanding. An examination of the two great traditions which influence Milton will render this conclusion sensible: that Milton intends to carve a relief of Man against Satan and prescribe a proper relationship of Man and God.But Milton does create a factual hero out of Satan through his brilliant description. A psychoanalysis of the authors' creation throws a light into this apparent paradox. The failure of the English Revolution thwarted Milton's political and religious ambition. To relieve his mental repression, he channeled his energy into the composition of Paradise Lost. He is compensated of his repressed ambition by creating and identifying with the character Satan. It is the rebellious and unyielding spirit of Satan that upholds him to fight against fate and complete his monumental epic.