Epic Poetry and Psychological Complexity (was NPPF Canto 1: 1-4 some random notes)

[Tim Strzechowski]

>
> But, given the purpose Fish articulates, doesn't Milton go too far in
> making Satan so psychologically compelling, and his fall tragic? Fish's
> argument strikes me as a justification of entrapment [...]"


I don't see entrapment on Milton's part, only because he puts two dynamics
into play.  On the one hand, we have the character of Satan who, especially
early in the epic, conveys a sense of having been wronged by the "tyrant of
Heav'n," etc.  But on the other hand, sporadically during the narrative and
especially in the earliest Books, the voice of the bard seeps through at key
points of dialogue to remind the reader of the treachery behind Satan's (or
later the various fallen legions's) words. So, by sprinkling throughout
Satan's seemingly persuasive and honeyed speeches lines like

"So spake th' apostate angel, though in pain,
Vaunting aloud, but racked with deep despair" (I:125-26)

or

"He scarce had ceased when the superior Fiend
Was moving toward the shore . . ." (I: 282-83+)

or following the Debate in Hell,

"Satan, whom now transcendent glory raised
Above his fellows, with monarchal pride
Conscious of highest worth, unmoved thus spake" (II: 426-28)

the voice of the Miltonic bard is again present, reminding us, providing
moral bearings for the reader by subtle reminders that this character is
*not* to be trusted entirely.  If Milton hadn't provided this gentle appeal
to the reader's conscience (or Reason?), I'd agree with you that the poet is
guilty of entrapment.  But Milton gives the reader an "out," if only s/he
will heed the words.

Sorta like Milton's God.   : )

Respectfully,

Tim