Book 2 of “Paradise Lost” by John Milton continues the story of Satan’s journey to Earth and introduces new characters and themes. Here is a brief summary of the book: Paradise Lost Book 2 By John Milton summary
The book begins with Satan arriving on Earth, disguised as a cherub named Uriel. Satan is searching for the location of Eden, where he plans to tempt Adam and Eve to sin. Uriel unwittingly shows Satan the way to Eden, and Satan sets off on his mission.
Meanwhile, back in Heaven, God sends an angel named Raphael to warn Adam about Satan’s plans and to teach him about the history of the universe. Raphael tells Adam the story of Satan’s rebellion against God, and Adam realizes the danger that Satan poses to his idyllic existence in Eden.
As Satan approaches Eden, he encounters a group of animals who are able to speak and warns them not to reveal his presence to Adam and Eve. Satan then finds Eve alone in the garden and begins to tempt her with promises of knowledge and power. Eve is initially hesitant, but Satan appeals to her vanity and convinces her to eat the forbidden fruit.
The book ends with Eve taking the fruit back to Adam and convincing him to eat it as well. As they eat the fruit, they feel a sense of shame and realize that they are naked. They attempt to cover themselves with fig leaves and hide from God’s presence in the garden.
Overall, Book 2 of “Paradise Lost” continues to develop the central conflict of the poem and introduces new characters and themes. The book shows Satan’s infiltration of Eden and his successful temptation of Adam and Eve, leading to their fall from grace. It also introduces the idea of knowledge as a double-edged sword, with the pursuit of knowledge leading to both enlightenment and downfall.
