# Paradise Lost

> epic poem by John Milton

**Wikidata**: [Q28754](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q28754)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paradise_Lost)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/paradise-lost

## Summary
*Paradise Lost* is an epic poem by John Milton, first published in 1667. It is a foundational work of English literature, exploring themes of rebellion, free will, and the fall of humanity through the story of Satan’s rebellion against God. The poem was later prohibited by the Catholic Church and is considered a cornerstone of Western literary tradition.

## Key Facts
- **Author**: John Milton (1608–1674), English poet and civil servant.
- **Publication Date**: 1667.
- **Genre**: Epic poem.
- **Country of Origin**: England.
- **Related Work**: *Paradise Regained*, a sequel poem by Milton.
- **Censorship**: Included in the *Index Librorum Prohibitorum* (1559–1966), a list of banned Catholic Church publications.
- **Classification**: Literary work.
- **Sitelink Count**: 73 (indicating widespread online references).

## FAQs
- **What is *Paradise Lost* about?** The poem narrates the fall of Satan and humanity from Heaven, exploring themes of rebellion, free will, and divine justice.
- **Who wrote *Paradise Lost*?** It was written by John Milton, a prominent English poet and civil servant.
- **When was *Paradise Lost* published?** The first edition was published in 1667.
- **Why was *Paradise Lost* banned?** It was included in the *Index Librorum Prohibitorum*, a list of prohibited Catholic Church publications, likely due to its theological and philosophical themes.
- **Is *Paradise Lost* related to any other works by Milton?** Yes, it is followed by *Paradise Regained*, another poem by Milton.
- **What genre does *Paradise Lost* belong to?** It is classified as an epic poem.

## Why It Matters
*Paradise Lost* is a seminal work of English literature that shaped Western poetic tradition. Its exploration of rebellion, free will, and divine justice has influenced generations of writers and thinkers. The poem’s complex theological and philosophical arguments have made it a subject of scholarly analysis for centuries. Additionally, its inclusion in the *Index Librorum Prohibitorum* highlights its controversial nature and enduring cultural impact.

## Notable For
- **Literary Influence**: A foundational work of English epic poetry, influencing countless subsequent literary works.
- **Theological Depth**: Explores complex theological and philosophical concepts, including free will and divine justice.
- **Cultural Impact**: Its themes of rebellion and human fallibility resonate across literary, philosophical, and religious discourse.
- **Historical Significance**: One of the most widely studied and referenced poems in English literature.

## Body
### Origins and Author
*Paradise Lost* was written by John Milton, an English poet and civil servant, between 1658 and 1667. Milton’s work is deeply rooted in the intellectual and political climate of his time, reflecting themes of rebellion, free will, and divine order.

### Publication and Reception
The poem was first published in 1667 and quickly gained recognition for its intricate narrative and theological depth. It was later included in the *Index Librorum Prohibitorum*, a list of publications prohibited by the Catholic Church, likely due to its challenging theological perspectives.

### Literary Significance
*Paradise Lost* is considered a cornerstone of English literature, influencing generations of poets and writers. Its epic structure and philosophical arguments have made it a subject of ongoing scholarly study.

### Related Works
Milton’s *Paradise Lost* is followed by *Paradise Regained*, another poem that continues the narrative of the fall of humanity. Both works are part of Milton’s broader exploration of theological and philosophical themes.

### Cultural Context
The poem’s themes of rebellion and human fallibility resonate across various cultural and intellectual traditions. Its inclusion in the *Index Librorum Prohibitorum* underscores its controversial nature and enduring relevance.

### Legacy
*Paradise Lost* remains a pivotal work in English literature, shaping poetic and philosophical discourse for centuries. Its influence extends beyond academia, inspiring artistic interpretations and adaptations in various media.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. IdRef
3. [Encyclopædia Britannica Online](https://www.britannica.com/topic/Index-Librorum-Prohibitorum)
4. MusicBrainz
5. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
6. [Paradise lost. by John Milton | Open Library](https://openlibrary.org/works/OL810991W/Paradise_Lost?edition=key%3A/books/OL20425649M)
7. BBC Things
8. [Paradise Lost - Memory Alpha, the Star Trek Wiki](https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Paradise_Lost)
9. [Paradise Lost (poem) | Memory Beta, non-canon Star Trek Wiki | Fandom](https://memory-beta.fandom.com/wiki/Paradise_Lost_(poem))
10. [OpenAlex](https://docs.openalex.org/download-snapshot/snapshot-data-format)
11. Virtual Study of Theatre Institute