Summary: The story of creation, Lucifer's rebellion, humanity's fall and their hope for redemption.
John Milton is a literary genius. The level of detail, the description, the mathematical precision of the verses is mind-blowing. Although the plotline is somewhat overdone (see The Bible), Milton approaches his theodicy with a passion and a depth that many people overlook. Milton explains God's need for evil in the world through his beautiful poetry, however he is rather sexist, and goes somewhat over the top with his descriptions of God. Book III is my personal favorite, in that the whole book is composed of God, Jesus and the angels sitting around in heaven talking about how amazing God is-how merciful he is for forgiving humanity (which he hasn't done yet) and how just he is for not forgiving Satan (which he also has not done yet). Also, he turns the entire fall into a sex metaphor, placing the blame for all of humanity's problems on Eve's sexuality.
Generally very well written, and a wonderful read for anyone looking for a challenge, but if you are not overwhelmingly religious or a bit sexist, certain pieces might be somewhat bothersome.
-Mistress Foo
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