Milton’s Poetic Injustice

In 1667 – English poet John Milton in his poem Paradise Lost placed Agra & Lahore as the two greatest cities in the world under the reign of Akbar The Great: “To Agra and Lahore of Great Mogul. – To seat of Mightiest Empires” Thx for the reminder @DalrympleWill

The concept of “Milton’s poetic injustice” refers to the idea that John Milton, in his works – most notably in Paradise Lost – sometimes appears to treat certain characters or moral themes in ways that seem inconsistent with traditional notions of justice. This interpretation has led to debates about whether his portrayals reflect true poetic justice (the literary device where virtue is rewarded and vice punished) or deviate from it.

Key Interpretations:

1. Sympathy for Satan: Milton’s depiction of Satan in Paradise Lost is particularly controversial. Satan is portrayed as a charismatic, complex, and even heroic figure in certain parts of the poem, leading some readers to feel more sympathy for him than for the supposedly virtuous characters, like Adam, Eve, or even God. This has led critics to question whether Milton inadvertently created a “poetic injustice” by making the antagonist so compelling.

2. Human Flaws and Divine Judgment: Milton’s portrayal of Adam and Eve’s fall also sparks debates. Some interpret their punishment as excessively harsh, considering their initial innocence and the deceptive tactics used by Satan. This could be seen as an example of injustice in how divine authority is depicted.

3. Ambiguity in Moral Lessons: Milton’s complex theological and political views, shaped by his Puritan beliefs and personal experiences, make his work multifaceted. For instance, his strong advocacy for free will complicates the notion of justice in his poems – if humans are truly free, then their choices and the resulting consequences must stand, even if they seem harsh or unjust.

In summary, “Milton’s poetic injustice” reflects the tension between his literary, theological, and political aims, which sometimes result in a sense of disproportion or ambiguity in the outcomes for his characters. This ambiguity has been both criticized and celebrated for its complexity.