Ambivalence In The Image Of Satan In John Milton's Paradise Lost

This thesis attempts to study the ambivalence in the image of Satan in John Milton's Paradise Lost mainly in terms of New Historicism. Living in the turbulent age of the 17th century in England, Milton's ideology is unavoidably affected by the historical context of the time. His characterization of Satan is closely connected with the social background, politics, religion, etc. at that time.This thesis consists of three chapters.Chapter One explores Satan viewed as a hero who has won the sympathy of the author. When describing Satan, due to his life experiences, Milton subconsciously characterizes the image as one who indomitably resists tyranny, injustice and authority, and yearns for freedom. On the other hand, as an active participant in the English Revolution, Milton was directly influenced by it. His passion for the Revolution likewise brought about the heroic Satan.Chapter Two is devoted to Satan seen as a devil rationally negated. In spite of his emotional sympathy for Satan, as a devoted Christian poet, Milton is unlikely to hold a positive view of Satan, a heathen who rebels against God and wiles Adam and Eve. In terms of politics, with the failure of the English Revolution, Milton shows his discontentment to the leaders of the revolution. Satan, as the leader of the rebel angels, becomes the aim of his attack.Chapter Three suggests a more complicated Satan—an ambivalent image that needs making penetrating analysis. Combined with other major images' influence and the dualism in the structure of Paradise Lost, the complexity of Satan is revealed: neither hero nor devil is able to cover the characteristics of Satan. He should be taken as a whole and be treated dialectically. The dialectics of Marxism, especially the theory of contradictions is applied to the analysis of Satan.The conclusion is a general summarization of the thesis, containing some suggestions for future work in the study of John Milton's Paradise Lost.