第1章

OfMansFirstDisobedience，andtheFruitOfthatForbiddenTree，whosemortaltastBroughtDeathintotheWorld，andallourwoe，WithlossofEDEN，tillonegreaterManRestoreus，andregaintheblissfulSeat，SingHeav"nlyMuse，thatonthesecrettopOfOREB，orofSINAI，didstinspireThatShepherd，whofirsttaughtthechosenSeed，IntheBeginninghowtheHeav"nsandEarthRoseoutofCHAOS:OrifSIONHillDelighttheemore，andSILOA"SBrookthatflow"dFastbytheOracleofGod；IthenceInvokethyaidtomyadventrousSong，ThatwithnomiddleflightintendstosoarAboveth"AONIANMount，whileitpursuesThingsunattemptedyetinProseorRhime。

AndchieflyThouOSpirit，thatdostpreferBeforeallTemplesth"uprightheartandpure，Instructme，forThouknow"st；ThoufromthefirstWastpresent，andwithmightywingsoutspreadDove-likesatstbroodingonthevastAbyssAndmad"stitpregnant:WhatinmeisdarkIllumine，whatislowraiseandsupport；

ThattothehighthofthisgreatArgumentImayassertth"EternalProvidence，AndjustifiethewayesofGodtomen。

Sayfirst，forHeav"nhidesnothingfromthyviewNorthedeepTractofHell，sayfirstwhatcauseMov"dourGrandParentsinthathappyState，Favour"dofHeav"nsohighly，tofalloffFromtheirCreator，andtransgresshisWillForonerestraint，LordsoftheWorldbesides?

Whofirstseduc"dthemtothatfowlrevolt?

Th"infernalSerpent；heitwas，whoseguileStirdupwithEnvyandRevenge，deceiv"dTheMotherofMankinde，whattimehisPrideHadcasthimoutfromHeav"n，withallhisHostOfRebelAngels，bywhoseaidaspiringTosethimselfinGloryabovehisPeers，Hetrustedtohaveequal"dthemostHigh，Ifheoppos"d；andwithambitiousaimAgainsttheThroneandMonarchyofGodRais"dimpiousWarinHeav"nandBattelproudWithvainattempt。HimtheAlmightyPowerHurldheadlongflamingfromth"EtherealSkieWithhideousruineandcombustiondownTobottomlessperdition，theretodwellInAdamantineChainsandpenalFire，Whodurstdefieth"OmnipotenttoArms。

NinetimestheSpacethatmeasuresDayandNightTomortalmen，hewithhishorridcrewLayvanquisht，rowlinginthefieryGulfeConfoundedthoughimmortal:ButhisdoomReserv"dhimtomorewrath；fornowthethoughtBothoflosthappinessandlastingpainTormentshim；roundhethrowshisbalefuleyesThatwitness"dhugeafflictionanddismayMixtwithobdurateprideandstedfasthate:

AtonceasfarasAngelskennheviewsThedismalSituationwasteandwilde，ADungeonhorrible，onallsidesroundAsonegreatFurnaceflam"d，yetfromthoseflamesNolight，butratherdarknessvisibleServ"donlytodiscoversightsofwoe，Regionsofsorrow，dolefulshades，wherepeaceAndrestcanneverdwell，hopenevercomesThatcomestoall；buttorturewithoutendStillurges，andafieryDeluge，fedWithever-burningSulphurunconsum"d:

SuchplaceEternalJusticehadprepar"dForthoserebellious，heretheirPrisonordain"dInutterdarkness，andtheirportionsetAsfarremov"dfromGodandlightofHeav"nAsfromtheCenterthricetoth"utmostPole。

Ohowunliketheplacefromwhencetheyfell！

Therethecompanionsofhisfall，o"rewhelm"dWithFloodsandWhirlwindsoftempestuousfire，Hesoondiscerns，andweltringbyhissideOnenexthimselfinpower，andnextincrime，LongafterknowninPALESTINE，andnam"dBEELZEBUB。Towhomth"Arch-Enemy，AndthenceinHeav"ncall"dSatan，withboldwordsBreakingthehorridsilencethusbegan。

Ifthoubeesthe；ButOhowfall"n！howchang"dFromhim，whointhehappyRealmsofLightCloth"dwithtranscendentbrightnesdidstoutshineMyriadsthoughbright:Ifhewhommutualleague，Unitedthoughtsandcounsels，equalhope，AndhazardintheGloriousEnterprize，Joyndwithmeonce，nowmiseryhathjoyndInequalruin:intowhatPitthouseestFromwhathighthfal"n，somuchthestrongerprovdHewithhisThunder:andtillthenwhoknewTheforceofthosedireArms?yetnotforthoseNorwhatthePotentVictorinhisrageCanelseinflictdoIrepentorchange，Thoughchang"dinoutwardlustre；thatfixtmindAndhighdisdain，fromsenceofinjur"dmerit，Thatwiththemightiestrais"dmetocontend，AndtothefiercecontentionbroughtalongInnumerableforceofSpiritsarm"dThatdurstdislikehisreign，andmepreferring，Hisutmostpowerwithadversepoweroppos"dIndubiousBattelonthePlainsofHeav"n，Andshookhisthrone。Whatthoughthefieldbelost?

Allisnotlost；theunconquerableWill，Andstudyofrevenge，immortalhate，Andcouragenevertosubmitoryield:

Andwhatiselsenottobeovercome?

ThatGlorynevershallhiswrathormightExtortfromme。TobowandsueforgraceWithsuppliantknee，anddeifiehispowerWhofromtheterrourofthisArmsolateDoubtedhisEmpire，thatwerelowindeed，ThatwereanignominyandshamebeneathThisdownfall；sincebyFatethestrengthofGodsAndthisEmpyrealsubstancecannotfail，SincethroughexperienceofthisgreateventInArmsnotworse，inforesightmuchadvanc"t，WemaywithmoresuccessfulhoperesolveTowagebyforceorguileeternalWarrIrreconcileable，toourgrandFoe，Whonowtriumphs，andinth"excessofjoySolereigningholdstheTyrannyofHeav"n。

Sospaketh"ApostateAngel，thoughinpain，Vauntingaloud，butracktwithdeepdespare:

Andhimthusanswer"dsoonhisboldCompeer。

OPrince，OChiefofmanyThronedPowers，Thatledth"imbattelldSeraphimtoWarrUnderthyconduct，andindreadfuldeedsFearless，endanger"dHeav"nsperpetualKing；

AndputtoproofhishighSupremacy，Whetherupheldbystrength，orChance，orFate，ToowellIseeandruethedireevent，ThatwithsadoverthrowandfouldefeatHathlostusHeav"n，andallthismightyHostInhorribledestructionlaidthuslow，AsfarasGodsandHeav"nlyEssencesCanPerish:forthemindandspiritremainsInvincible，andvigoursoonreturns，ThoughallourGloryextinct，andhappystateHereswallow"dupinendlessmisery。

ButwhatifheourConquerour，(whomInowOfforcebelieveAlmighty，sincenolessThensuchcouldhavorepow"rdsuchforceasours)

HaveleftusthisourspiritandstrengthintireStronglytosufferandsupportourpains，Thatwemaysosufficehisvengefulire，OrdohimmightierserviceashisthrallsByrightofWarr，whate"rehisbusinessbeHereintheheartofHelltoworkinFire，OrdohisErrandsinthegloomyDeep；

WhatcanitthenavailthoughyetwefeelStrengthundiminisht，oreternalbeingToundergoeternalpunishment?

Wheretowithspeedywordsth"Arch-fiendreply"d。

Fall"nCherube，tobeweakismiserableDoingorSuffering:butofthisbesure，Todooughtgoodneverwillbeourtask，Butevertodoilloursoledelight，AsbeingthecontrarytohishighwillWhomweresist。IfthenhisProvidenceOutofourevilseektobringforthgood，Ourlabourmustbetopervertthatend，Andoutofgoodstilltofindmeansofevil；

Whichofttimesmaysucceed，soasperhapsShallgrievehim，ifIfailnot，anddisturbHisinmostcounselsfromtheirdestindaim。

ButseetheangryVictorhathrecall"dHisMinistersofvengeanceandpursuitBacktotheGatesofHeav"n:TheSulphurousHailShotafterusinstorm，oreblownhathlaidThefierySurge，thatfromthePrecipiceOfHeav"nreceiv"dusfalling，andtheThunder，Wing"dwithredLightningandimpetuousrage，Perhapshathspenthisshafts，andceasesnowTobellowthroughthevastandboundlessDeep。

Letusnotslipth"occasion，whetherscorn，OrsatiatefuryyielditfromourFoe。

SeestthouyondrearyPlain，forlornandwilde，Theseatofdesolation，voydoflight，SavewhattheglimmeringoftheselividflamesCastspaleanddreadful?ThitherletustendFromoffthetossingofthesefierywaves，Thererest，ifanyrestcanharbourthere，AndreassemblingourafflictedPowers，ConsulthowwemayhenceforthmostoffendOurEnemy，ourownlosshowrepair，HowovercomethisdireCalamity，WhatreinforcementwemaygainfromHope，Ifnotwhatresolutionfromdespare。

ThusSatantalkingtohisneerestMateWithHeadup-liftabovethewave，andEyesThatsparklingblaz"d，hisotherPartsbesidesProneontheFlood，extendedlongandlargeLayfloatingmanyarood，inbulkashugeAswhomtheFablesnameofmonstroussize，TITANIAN，orEARTH-BORN，thatwarr"donJOVE，BRIARIOSorTYPHON，whomtheDenByancientTARSUSheld，orthatSea-beastLEVIATHAN，whichGodofallhisworksCreatedhugestthatswimth"Oceanstream:

HimhaplyslumbringontheNORWAYfoamThePilotofsomesmallnight-founder"dSkiff，DeemingsomeIsland，oft，asSea-mentell，WithfixedAnchorinhisskalyrindMoorsbyhissideundertheLee，whileNightInveststheSea，andwishedMorndelayes:

SostretchtouthugeinlengththeArch-fiendlayChain"dontheburningLake，noreverthenceHadris"norheav"dhishead，butthatthewillAndhighpermissionofall-rulingHeavenLefthimatlargetohisowndarkdesigns，ThatwithreiteratedcrimeshemightHeaponhimselfdamnation，whilehesoughtEviltoothers，andenrag"dmightseeHowallhismaliceserv"dbuttobringforthInfinitegoodness，graceandmercyshewnOnManbyhimseduc"t，butonhimselfTrebleconfusion，wrathandvengeancepour"d。

ForthwithuprightherearsfromoffthePoolHismightyStature；oneachhandtheflamesDrivnbackwardslopetheirpointingspires，&；rowldInbillows，leavei"th"midstahorridVale。

ThenwithexpandedwingshestearshisflightAloft，incumbentontheduskyAirThatfeltunusualweight，tillondryLandHelights，ifitwereLandthateverburn"dWithsolid，astheLakewithliquidfire；

Andsuchappear"dinhue，aswhentheforceOfsubterraneanwindtransportsaHillTornfromPELORUS，ortheshatter"dsideOfthundringAETNA，whosecombustibleAndfewel"dentralsthenceconceivingFire，Sublim"dwithMineralfury，aidtheWinds，Andleaveasingedbottomallinvolv"dWithstenchandsmoak:SuchrestingfoundthesoleOfunblestfeet。HimfollowedhisnextMate，Bothgloryingtohavescap"ttheSTYGIANfloodAsGods，andbytheirownrecover"dstrength，NotbythesufferanceofsupernalPower。

IsthistheRegion，thistheSoil，theClime，SaidthenthelostArchAngel，thistheseatThatwemustchangeforHeav"n，thismournfulgloomForthatcelestiallight?Beitso，sinceheeWhonowisSovrancandisposeandbidWhatshallberight:fardestfromhimisbestWhomreasonhathequald，forcehathmadesupreamAbovehisequals。FarewelhappyFieldsWhereJoyforeverdwells:Hailhorrours，hailInfernalworld，andthouprofoundestHellReceivethynewPossessor:OnewhobringsAmindnottobechang"dbyPlaceorTime。

Themindisitsownplace，andinitselfCanmakeaHeav"nofHell，aHellofHeav"n。

Whatmatterwhere，ifIbestillthesame，AndwhatIshouldbe，allbutlessthenheeWhomThunderhathmadegreater?HereatleastWeshallbefree；th"AlmightyhathnotbuiltHereforhisenvy，willnotdriveushence:

Herewemayreignsecure，andinmychoyceToreignisworthambitionthoughinHell:

BettertoreigninHell，thenserveinHeav"n。

Butwhereforeletwethenourfaithfulfriends，Th"associatesandcopartnersofourlossLyethusastonishtonth"obliviousPool，AndcallthemnottosharewithustheirpartInthisunhappyMansion，oroncemoreWithralliedArmstotrywhatmaybeyetRegaindinHeav"n，orwhatmorelostinHell?

SoSATANspake，andhimBEELZEBUB

Thusanswer"d。LeaderofthoseArmiesbright，Whichbutth"Omnipotentnonecouldhavefoyld，Ifoncetheyhearthatvoyce，theirliveliestpledgeOfhopeinfearsanddangers，heardsooftInworstextreams，andontheperilousedgeOfbattelwhenitrag"d，inallassaultsTheirsurestsignal，theywillsoonresumeNewcourageandrevive，thoughnowtheylyeGrovelingandprostrateonyonLakeofFire，Asweerewhile，astoundedandamaz"d，Nowonder，fall"nsuchapernicioushighth。

Hescarcehadceas"twhenthesuperiourFiendWasmovingtowardtheshore；hisponderousshieldEtherealtemper，massy，largeandround，Behindhimcast；thebroadcircumferenceHungonhisshouldersliketheMoon，whoseOrbThroughOpticGlasstheTUSCANArtistviewsAtEv"ningfromthetopofFESOLE，OrinVALDARNO，todescrynewLands，RiversorMountainsinherspottyGlobe。

HisSpear，toequalwhichthetallestPineHewnonNORWEGIANhills，tobetheMastOfsomegreatAmmiral，werebutawand，HewalktwithtosupportuneasiestepsOvertheburningMarle，notlikethosestepsOnHeavensAzure，andthetorridClimeSmoteonhimsorebesides，vaultedwithFire；

Nathlesshesoendur"d，tillontheBeachOfthatinflamedSea，hestoodandcall"dHisLegions，AngelForms，wholayintrans"tThickasAutumnalLeavesthatstrowtheBrooksInVALLOMBROSA，whereth"ETRURIANshadesHighoverarch"timbowr；orscatterdsedgeAfloat，whenwithfierceWindsORIONarm"dHathvexttheRed-SeaCoast，whosewavesorethrewBUSIRISandhisMEMPHIANChivalrie，VVhilewithperfidioushatredtheypursu"dTheSojournersofGOSHEN，whobeheldFromthesafeshoretheirfloatingCarkasesAndbrokenChariotWheels，sothickbestrownAbjectandlostlaythese，coveringtheFlood，Underamazementoftheirhideouschange。

Hecall"dsoloud，thatallthehollowDeepOfHellresounded。Princes，Potentates，Warriers，theFlowrofHeav"n，onceyours，nowlost，IfsuchastonishmentasthiscansiezeEternalspirits；orhaveyechos"nthisplaceAfterthetoylofBatteltoreposeYourweariedvertue，fortheeaseyoufindToslumberhere，asintheValesofHeav"n?

OrinthisabjectposturehaveyeswornToadoretheConquerour?whonowbeholdsCherubeandSeraphrowlingintheFloodWithscatter"dArmsandEnsigns，tillanonHisswiftpursuersfromHeav"nGatesdiscernTh"advantage，anddescendingtreadusdownThusdrooping，orwithlinkedThunderboltsTransfixustothebottomofthisGulfe。

Awake，arise，orbeforeverfall"n。

Theyheard，andwereabasht，anduptheysprungUponthewing，aswhenmenwonttowatchOnduty，sleepingfoundbywhomtheydread，Rouseandbestirthemselveserewellawake。

NordidtheynotperceavetheevilplightInwhichtheywere，orthefiercepainsnotfeel；

YettotheirGeneralsVoycetheysoonobeydInnumerable。AswhenthepotentRodOfAMRAMSSoninEGYPTSevilldayWav"droundtheCoast，upcall"dapitchycloudOfLOCUSTS，warpingontheEasternWind，ThatoretheRealmofimpiousPHAROAHhungLikeNight，anddarken"dalltheLandofNILE:

SonumberlesswerethosebadAngelsseenHoveringonwingundertheCopeofHell"Twixtupper，nether，andsurroundingFires；

Till，asasignalgiv"n，th"upliftedSpearOftheirgreatSultanwavingtodirectThircourse，inevenballancedowntheylightOnthefirmbrimstone，andfillallthePlain；

Amultitude，likewhichthepopulousNorthPour"dneverfromherfrozenloyns，topassRHENEortheDANAW，whenherbarbarousSonsCamelikeaDelugeontheSouth，andspreadBeneathGIBRALTARtotheLYBIANsands。

ForthwithfromeverySquadronandeachBandTheHeadsandLeadersthitherhastwherestoodTheirgreatCommander；GodlikeshapesandformsExcellinghuman，PrincelyDignities，AndPowersthatearstinHeavensatonThrones；

ThoughoftheirNamesinheav"nlyRecordsnowBenomemorial，blottedoutandras"dBythirRebellion，fromtheBooksofLife。

NorhadtheyyetamongtheSonsofEVE

GotthemnewNames，tillwandringoretheEarth，ThroughGodshighsufferanceforthetryalofman，ByfalsitiesandlyesthegreatestpartOfMankindtheycorruptedtoforsakeGodtheirCreator，andth"invisibleGloryofhim，thatmadethem，totransformOfttotheImageofaBrute，adorn"dWithgayReligionsfullofPompandGold，AndDevilstoadoreforDeities:

ThenweretheyknowntomenbyvariousNames，AndvariousIdolsthroughtheHeathenWorld。

Say，Muse，theirNamesthenknown，whofirst，wholast，Rous"dfromtheslumber，onthatfieryCouch，AtthirgreatEmperorscall，asnextinworthCamesinglywherehestoodonthebarestrand，Whilethepromiscuouscroudstoodyetaloof?

ThechiefwerethosewhofromthePitofHellRoamingtoseektheirpreyonearth，durstfixTheirSeatslongafternexttheSeatofGod，TheirAltarsbyhisAltar，Godsador"dAmongtheNationsround，anddurstabideJEHOVAHthundringoutofSION，thron"dBetweentheCherubim；yea，oftenplac"dWithinhisSanctuaryitselftheirShrines，Abominations；andwithcursedthingsHisholyRites，andsolemnFeastsprofan"d，Andwiththeirdarknessdurstaffronthislight。

FirstMOLOCH，horridKingbesmear"dwithbloodOfhumansacrifice，andparentstears，ThoughforthenoyseofDrumsandTimbrelsloudTheirchildrenscriesunheard，thatpastthroughfireTohisgrimIdol。HimtheAMMONITE

WorshiptinRABBAandherwatryPlain，InARGOBandinBASAN，tothestreamOfutmostARNON。NorcontentwithsuchAudaciousneighbourhood，thewisestheartOfSOLOMONheledbyfraudtobuildHisTemplerightagainsttheTempleofGodOnthatopprobriousHill，andmadehisGroveThepleasantVallyofHINNOM，TOPHETthenceAndblackGEHENNAcall"d，theTypeofHell。

NextCHEMOS，th"obscenedreadofMOABSSons，FromAROERtoNEBO，andthewildOfSouthmostABARIM；inHESEBON

AndHERONAIM，SEONSRealm，beyondTheflowryDaleofSIBMAcladwithVines，AndELEALEtoth"ASPHALTICKPool。

PEORhisotherName，whenheentic"dISRAELinSITTIMontheirmarchfromNILE

Todohimwantonrites，whichcostthemwoe。

YetthencehislustfulOrgiesheenlarg"dEventothatHillofscandal，bytheGroveOfMOLOCHhomicide，lusthardbyhate；

TillgoodJOSIAHdrovethemthencetoHell。

Withthesecamethey，whofromthebordringfloodOfoldEUPHRATEStotheBrookthatpartsEGYPTfromSYRIANground，hadgeneralNamesOfBAALIMandASHTAROTH，thosemale，TheseFeminine。ForSpiritswhentheypleaseCaneitherSexassume，orboth；sosoftAnduncompoundedistheirEssencepure，Notti"dormanacl"dwithjoyntorlimb，Norfoundedonthebrittlestrengthofbones，Likecumbrousflesh；butinwhatshapetheychooseDilatedorcondens"t，brightorobscure，Canexecutetheiraeriepurposes，Andworksofloveorenmityfulfill。

ForthosetheRaceofISRAELoftforsookTheirlivingstrength，andunfrequentedleftHisrighteousAltar，bowinglowlydownTobestialGods；forwhichtheirheadsaslowBow"ddowninBattel，sunkbeforetheSpearOfdespicablefoes。WiththeseintroopCameASTORETH，whomthePHOENICIANScall"dASTARTE，QueenofHeav"n，withcrescentHorns；

TowhosebrightImagenightlybytheMoonSIDONIANVirginspaidtheirVowsandSongs，InSIONalsonotunsung，wherestoodHerTempleonth"offensiveMountain，builtBythatuxoriousKing，whoseheartthoughlarge，Beguil"dbyfairIdolatresses，fellToIdolsfoul。THAMMUZcamenextbehind，WhoseannualwoundinLEBANONallur"dTheSYRIANDamselstolamenthisfateInamorousdittyesallaSummersday，WhilesmoothADONISfromhisnativeRockRanpurpletotheSea，suppos"dwithbloodOfTHAMMUZyearlywounded:theLove-taleInfectedSIONSdaughterswithlikeheat，WhosewantonpassionsinthesacredPorchEZEKIELsaw，whenbytheVisionledHiseyesurvay"dthedarkIdolatriesOfalienatedJUDAH。NextcameoneWhomourn"dinearnest，whentheCaptiveArkMaim"dhisbruteImage，headandhandsloptoffInhisownTemple，onthegrunseledge，Wherehefellflat，andsham"dhisWorshipers:

DAGONhisName，SeaMonster，upwardManAnddownwardFish:yethadhisTemplehighRear"dinAZOTUS，dreadedthroughtheCoastOfPALESTINE，inGATHandASCALON，AndACCARONandGAZA"sfrontierbounds。

Himfollow"dRIMMON，whosedelightfulSeatWasfairDAMASCUS，onthefertilBanksOfABBANAandPHARPHAR，lucidstreams。

HealsoagainstthehouseofGodwasbold:

ALeperoncehelostandgain"daKing，AHAZhissottishConquerour，whomhedrewGodsAltartodisparageanddisplaceForoneofSYRIANmode，whereontoburnHisodiousoffrings，andadoretheGodsWhomhehadvanquisht。Aftertheseappear"dAcrewwhounderNamesofoldRenown，OSIRIS，ISIS，ORUSandtheirTrainWithmonstrousshapesandsorceriesabus"dFanaticEGYPTandherPriests，toseekThirwandringGodsdisguis"dinbrutishformsRatherthenhuman。NordidISRAELscapeTh"infectionwhentheirborrow"dGoldcompos"dTheCalfinOREB:andtheRebelKingDoubl"dthatsininBETHELandinDAN，Lik"ninghisMakertotheGrazedOx，JEHOVAH，whoinoneNightwhenhepass"dFromEGYPTmarching，equal"dwithonestrokeBothherfirstbornandallherbleatingGods。

BELIALcamelast，thenwhomaSpiritmorelewdFellnotfromHeaven，ormoregrosstoloveViceforitself:TohimnoTemplestoodOrAltarsmoak"d；yetwhomoreoftthenheeInTemplesandatAltars，whenthePriestTurnsAtheist，asdidELY"SSons，whofill"dWithlustandviolencethehouseofGod。

InCourtsandPalaceshealsoReignsAndinluxuriousCities，wherethenoyseOfriotascendsabovethirloftiestTowrs，Andinjuryandoutrage:AndwhenNightDarkenstheStreets，thenwanderforththeSonsOfBELIAL，flownwithinsolenceandwine。

WitnesstheStreetsofSODOM，andthatnightInGIBEAH，whenhospitableDoresYieldedthirMatronstopreventworserape。

Theseweretheprimeinorderandinmight；

Therestwerelongtotell，thoughfarrenown"d，Th"IONIANGods，ofJAVANSIssueheldGods，yetconfestlaterthenHeav"nandEarthThirboastedParents；TITANHeav"nsfirstbornWithhisenormousbrood，andbirthrightseis"dByyoungerSATURN，hefrommightierJOVE

HisownandRHEA"SSonlikemeasurefound；

SoJOVEusurpingreign"d:thesefirstinCREET

AndIDAknown，thenceontheSnowytopOfcoldOLYMPUSrul"dthemiddleAirThirhighestHeav"n；orontheDELPHIANCliff，OrinDODONA，andthroughalltheboundsOfDORICLand；orwhowithSATURNoldFledoverADRIAtoth"HESPERIANFields，AndoretheCELTICroam"dtheutmostIsles。

Alltheseandmorecameflocking；butwithlooksDowncastanddamp，yetsuchwhereinappear"dObscuresomglimpsofjoy，tohavefoundthirchiefNotindespair，tohavefoundthemselvesnotlostInlossitself；whichonhiscount"nancecastLikedoubtfulhue:buthehiswontedprideSoonrecollecting，withhighwords，thatboreSemblanceofworthnotsubstance，gentlyrais"dTheirfaintedcourage，anddispel"dtheirfears。

ThenstraitcommandsthatatthewarlikesoundOfTrumpetsloudandClarionsbeupreardHismightyStandard；thatproudhonourclaim"dAZAZELashisright，aCherubetall:

WhoforthwithfromtheglitteringStaffunfurldTh"ImperialEnsign，whichfullhighadvanc"tShonlikeaMeteorstreamingtotheWindWithGemmsandGoldenlustrerichimblaz"d，SeraphicarmsandTrophies:allthewhileSonorousmettalblowingMartialsounds:

AtwhichtheuniversalHostupsentAshoutthattoreHellsConcave，andbeyondFrightedtheReignofCHAOSandoldNight。

AllinamomentthroughthegloomwereseenTenthousandBannersriseintotheAirWithOrientColourswaving:withthemroseAForresthugeofSpears:andthrongingHelmsAppear"d，andserriedShieldsinthickarrayOfdepthimmeasurable:AnontheymoveInperfectPHALANXtotheDorianmoodOfFlutesandsoftRecorders；suchasrais"dTohighthofnoblesttemperHero"soldArmingtoBattel，andinsteadofrageDeliberatevalourbreath"d，firmandunmov"dWithdreadofdeathtoflightorfoulretreat，NorwantingpowertomitigateandswageWithsolemntouches，troubl"dthoughts，andchaseAnguishanddoubtandfearandsorrowandpainFrommortalorimmortalminds。ThustheyBreathingunitedforcewithfixedthoughtMov"doninsilencetosoftPipesthatcharm"dThirpainfulstepso"retheburntsoyle；andnowAdvanc"tinviewtheystand，ahorridFrontOfdreadfullengthanddazlingArms，inguiseOfWarriersoldwithorder"dSpearandShield，AwaitingwhatcommandthirmightyChiefHadtoimpose:HethroughthearmedFilesDartshisexperienc"teye，andsoontraverseThewholeBattalionviews，thirorderdue，ThirvisagesandstatureasofGods，Thirnumberlasthesumms。AndnowhisheartDistendswithpride，andhardninginhisstrengthGlories:Forneversincecreatedman，Metsuchimbodiedforce，asnam"dwiththeseCouldmeritmorethenthatsmallinfantryWarr"donbyCranes:thoughalltheGiantbroodOfPHLEGRAwithth"HeroicRacewerejoyn"dThatfoughtatTHEB"SandILIUM，oneachsideMixtwithauxiliarGods；andwhatresoundsInFableorROMANCEofUTHERSSonBegirtwithBRITISHandARMORICKnights；

Andallwhosince，Baptiz"dorInfidelJoustedinASPRAMONTorMONTALBAN，DAMASCO，orMAROCCO，orTREBISOND，OrwhomBISERTAsentfromAFRICshoreWhenCHARLEMAINwithallhisPeeragefellByFONTARABBIA。ThusfarthesebeyondCompareofmortalprowess，yetobserv"dThirdreadCommander:heabovetherestInshapeandgestureproudlyeminentStoodlikeaTowr；hisformhadyetnotlostAllherOriginalbrightness，norappear"dLessthenArchAngelruind，andth"excessOfGloryobscur"d:AswhentheSunnewris"nLooksthroughtheHorizontalmistyAirShornofhisBeams，orfrombehindtheMoonIndimEclipsdisastroustwilightshedsOnhalftheNations，andwithfearofchangePerplexesMonarchs。Dark"n"dso，yetshonAbovethemallth"ArchAngel:buthisfaceDeepscarsofThunderhadintrencht，andcareSatonhisfadedcheek，butunderBrowesOfdauntlesscourage，andconsideratePrideWaitingrevenge:cruelhiseye，butcastSignsofremorseandpassiontobeholdThefellowsofhiscrime，thefollowersrather(Farotheroncebeheldinbliss)condemn"dForevernowtohavetheirlotinpain，MillionsofSpiritsforhisfaultamerc"tOfHeav"n，andfromEternalSplendorsflungForhisrevolt，yetfaithfullhowtheystood，ThirGlorywitherd。AswhenHeavensFireHathscath"dtheForrestOaks，orMountainPines，WithsingedtoptheirstatelygrowththoughbareStandsontheblastedHeath。Henowprepar"dTospeak；whereattheirdoubl"dRankstheybendFromWingtoWing，andhalfenclosehimroundWithallhisPeers:attentionheldthemmute。

Thriceheassayd，andthriceinspiteofscorn，TearssuchasAngelsweep，burstforth:atlastWordsinterwovewithsighsfoundouttheirway。

OMyriadsofimmortalSpirits，OPowersMatchless，butwithth"Almighty，andthatstrifeWasnotinglorious，thoughth"eventwasdire，Asthisplacetestifies，andthisdirechangeHatefultoutter:butwhatpowerofmindForeseeingorpresaging，fromtheDepthOfknowledgepastorpresent，couldhavefear"d，HowsuchunitedforceofGods，howsuchAsstoodlikethese，couldeverknowrepulse?

Forwhocanyetbeleeve，thoughafterloss，ThatallthesepuissantLegions，whoseexileHathemptiedHeav"n，shallfailetore-ascendSelf-rais"d，andrepossesstheirnativeseat。

Forme，bewitnessalltheHostofHeav"n，Ifcounselsdifferent，ordangershun"dByme，havelostourhopes。ButhewhoreignsMonarchinHeav"n，tillthenasonesecureSatonhisThrone，upheldbyoldrepute，Consentorcustome，andhisRegalStatePutforthatfull，butstillhisstrengthconceal"d，Whichtemptedourattempt，andwroughtourfall。

Henceforthhismightweknow，andknowourownSoasnoteithertoprovoke，ordreadNewwarr，provok"t；ourbetterpartremainsToworkinclosedesign，byfraudorguileWhatforceeffectednot:thathenolessAtlengthfromusmayfind，whoovercomesByforce，hathovercomebuthalfhisfoe。

SpacemayproducenewWorlds；whereofsorifeTherewentafameinHeav"nthatheerelongIntendedtocreate，andthereinplantAgeneration，whomhischoiceregardShouldfavourequaltotheSonsofHeaven:

Thither，ifbuttoprie，shallbeperhapsOurfirsteruption，thitherorelsewhere:

ForthisInfernalPitshallneverholdCaelestialSpiritsinBondage，north"AbysseLongunderdarknesscover。ButthesethoughtsFullCounselmustmature:Peaceisdespaird，ForwhocanthinkSubmission?Warrthen，WarrOpenorunderstoodmustberesolv"d。

Hespake:andtoconfirmhiswords，out-flewMillionsofflamingswords，drawnfromthethighsOfmightyCherubim；thesuddenblazeFarroundillumin"dhell:highlytheyrag"dAgainsttheHighest，andfiercewithgraspedarm"sClash"dontheirsoundingshieldsthedinofwar，HurlingdefiancetowardthevaultofHeav"n。

TherestoodaHillnotfarwhosegrieslytopBelch"dfireandrowlingsmoak；therestentireShonwithaglossiescurff，undoubtedsignThatinhiswombwashidmetallicOre，TheworkofSulphur。Thitherwing"dwithspeedAnumerousBrigadhasten"d。AswhenbandsOfPionerswithSpadeandPickaxearm"dForeruntheRoyalCamp，totrenchaField，OrcastaRampart。MAMMONledthemon，MAMMON，theleasterectedSpiritthatfellFromheav"n，forev"ninheav"nhislooks&；thoughtsWerealwaysdownwardbent，admiringmoreTherichesofHeav"nspavement，trod"nGold，Thenaughtdivineorholyelseenjoy"dInvisionbeatific:byhimfirstMenalso，andbyhissuggestiontaught，Ransack"dtheCenter，andwithimpioushandsRifl"dthebowelsofthirmotherEarthForTreasuresbetterhid。SoonhadhiscrewOp"ndintotheHillaspaciouswoundAnddig"doutribsofGold。LetnoneadmireThatrichesgrowinHell；thatsoylemaybestDeservethepretiousbane。AndhereletthoseWhoboastinmortalthings，andwondringtellOfBABEL，andtheworksofMEMPHIANKings，LearnhowthirgreatestMonumentsofFame，AndStrengthandArtareeasilyoutdoneBySpiritsreprobate，andinanhourWhatinanagetheywithincessanttoyleAndhandsinnumerablescarceperformNighonthePlaininmanycellsprepar"d，ThatunderneathhadveinsofliquidfireSluc"dfromtheLake，asecondmultitudeWithwondrousArtfoundedthemassieOre，Severingeachkinde，andscum"dtheBulliondross:

Athirdassoonhadform"dwithinthegroundAvariousmould，andfromtheboylingcellsBystrangeconveyancefill"deachhollownook，AsinanOrganfromoneblastofwindTomanyarowofPipesthesound-boardbreaths。

AnonoutoftheearthaFabrickhugeRoselikeanExhalation，withthesoundOfDulcetSymphoniesandvoicessweet，BuiltlikeaTemple，wherePILASTERSroundWereset，andDoricpillarsoverlaidWithGoldenArchitrave；nordidtherewantCorniceorFreeze，withbossySculpturesgrav"n，TheRoofwasfrettedGold。NotBABILON，NorgreatALCAIROsuchmagnificenceEqual"dinallthirglories，toinshrineBELUSorSERAPISthirGods，orseatThirKings，whenAEGYPTwithASSYRIAstroveInwealthandluxurie。Th"ascendingpileStoodfixtherstatelyhighth，andstraitthedoresOp"ningthirbrazenfouldsdiscoverwideWithin，heramplespaces，o"rethesmoothAndlevelpavement:fromthearchedroofPendantbysuttleMagicmanyarowOfStarryLampsandblazingCressetsfedWithNaphthaandASPHALTUSyeildedlightAsfromasky。ThehastymultitudeAdmiringenter"d，andtheworksomepraiseAndsometheArchitect:hishandwasknownInHeav"nbymanyaTowredstructurehigh，WhereScepter"dAngelsheldthirresidence，AndsatasPrinces，whomthesupremeKingExaltedtosuchpower，andgavetorule，EachinhisHerarchie，theOrdersbright。

Norwashisnameunheardorunador"dInancientGreece；andinAUSONIANlandMencall"dhimMULCIBER；andhowhefellFromHeav"n，theyfabl"d，thrownbyangryJOVE

Sheero"retheChrystalBattlements:fromMornToNoonhefell，fromNoontodewyEve，ASummersday；andwiththesettingSunDroptfromtheZenithlikeafallingStar，OnLEMNOSth"AEGAEANIle:thustheyrelate，Erring；forhewiththisrebelliousroutFelllongbefore；noraughtavail"dhimnowTohavebuiltinHeav"nhighTowrs；nordidhescapeByallhisEngins，butwasheadlongsentWithhisindustriouscrewtobuildinhell。

MeanwhilethewingedHaraldsbycommandOfSovranpower，withawfulCeremonyAndTrumpetssoundthroughouttheHostproclaimAsolemnCouncelforthwithtobeheldAtPANDAEMONIUM，thehighCapitalOfSatanandhisPeers:thirsummonscall"dFromeveryandBandsquaredRegimentByplaceorchoicetheworthiest；theyanonWithhundredsandwiththousandstroopingcameAttended:allaccesswasthrong"d，theGatesAndPorcheswide，butchiefthespaciousHall(Thoughlikeacover"dfield，whereChampionsboldWontrideinarm"d，andattheSoldanschairDefi"dthebestofPanimchivalryTomortalcombatorcarreerwithLance)

Thickswarm"d，bothonthegroundandintheair，Brushtwiththehissofrusslingwings。AsBeesInspringtime，whentheSunwithTaurusrides，PoureforththirpopulousyouthabouttheHiveInclusters；theyamongfreshdewsandflowersFlietoandfro，oronthesmoothedPlank，ThesuburbofthirStraw-builtCittadel，Newrub"dwithBaume，expatiateandconferThirStateaffairs。SothicktheaeriecrowdSwarm"dandwerestraitn"d；tilltheSignalgiv"n，Beholdawonder！theybutnowwhoseemdInbignesstosurpassEarthsGiantSonsNowlessthensmallestDwarfs，innarrowroomThrongnumberless，likethatPigmeanRaceBeyondtheINDIANMount，orFaerieElves，WhosemidnightRevels，byaForrestsideOrFountainfomebelatedPeasantsees，Ordreamshesees，whileoverheadtheMoonSitsArbitress，andneerertotheEarthWheelsherpalecourse，theyonthirmirth&；danceIntent，withjocondMusiccharmhisear；

Atoncewithjoyandfearhisheartrebounds。

ThusincorporealSpiritstosmallestformsReduc"dthirshapesimmense，andwereatlarge，ThoughwithoutnumberstillamidsttheHallOfthatinfernalCourt。ButfarwithinAndinthirowndimensionslikethemselvesThegreatSeraphicLordsandCherubimIncloserecessandsecretconclavesatAthousandDemy-Godsongoldenseat"s，Frequentandfull。AftershortsilencethenAndsummonsread，thegreatconsultbegan。TheEndoftheFirstBookParadiseLost-Book2ParadiseLostbyJohnMiltonBook2HighonaThroneofRoyalState，whichfarOutshonthewealthofORMUSandofIND，OrwherethegorgeousEastwithrichesthandShowrsonherKingsBARBARICPearl&；Gold，Satanexaltedsat，bymeritrais"dTothatbademinence；andfromdespairThushighupliftedbeyondhope，aspiresBeyondthushigh，insatiatetopursueVainWarrwithHeav"n，andbysuccessuntaughtHisproudimaginationsthusdisplaid。

PowersandDominions，DeitiesofHeav"n，ForsincenodeepwithinhergulfcanholdImmortalvigor，thoughopprestandfall"n，IgivenotHeav"nforlost。FromthisdescentCelestialvertuesrising，willappearMoregloriousandmoredreadthenfromnofall，Andtrustthemselvestofearnosecondfate:

Meethoughjustright，andthefixtLawsofHeav"nDidfirstcreateyourLeader，next，freechoice，Withwhatbesides，inCounselorinFight，Hathbinachievdofmerit，yetthislossThusfarratleastrecover"d，hathmuchmoreEstablishtinasafeunenviedThroneYeildedwithfullconsent。ThehappierstateInHeav"n，whichfollowsdignity，mightdrawEnvyfromeachinferior；butwhohereWillenvywhomthehighestplaceexposesFormosttostandagainsttheThunderersaimeYourbulwark，andcondemnstogreatestshareOfendlesspain?wherethereisthennogoodForwhichtostrive，nostrifecangrowupthereFromFaction；fornonesurewillclaiminhellPrecedence，none，whoseportionissosmallOfpresentpain，thatwithambitiousmindWillcovetmore。WiththisadvantagethenTounion，andfirmFaith，andfirmaccord，MorethencanbeinHeav"n，wenowreturnToclaimourjustinheritanceofold，SurertoprosperthenprosperityCouldhaveassur"dus；andbywhatbestway，WhetherofopenWarrorcovertguile，Wenowdebate；whocanadvise，mayspeak。

Heceas"d，andnexthimMOLOC，Scepter"dKingStoodup，thestrongestandthefiercestSpiritThatfoughtinHeav"n；nowfiercerbydespair:

Histrustwaswithth"Eternaltobedeem"dEqualinstrength，andratherthenbelessCar"dnottobeatall；withthatcarelostWentallhisfear:ofGod，orHell，orworseHereckdnot，andthesewordsthereafterspake。

MysentenceisforopenWarr:OfWiles，Moreunexpert，Iboastnot:themletthoseContrivewhoneed，orwhentheyneed，notnow。

Forwhiletheysitcontriving，shalltherest，MillionsthatstandinArms，andlongingwaitTheSignaltoascend，sitlingringhereHeav"nsfugitives，andforthirdwellingplaceAcceptthisdarkopprobriousDenofshame，ThePrisonofhisTyrannywhoReignsByourdelay?no，letusratherchooseArm"dwithHellflamesandfuryallatonceO"reHeav"nshighTowrstoforceresistlessway，TurningourTorturesintohorridArmsAgainsttheTorturer；whentomeetthenoiseOfhisAlmightyEnginheshallhearInfernalThunder，andforLightningseeBlackfireandhorrorshotwithequalrageAmonghisAngels；andhisThroneitselfMixtwithTARTAREANSulphur，andstrangefire，HisowninventedTorments。ButperhapsThewayseemsdifficultandsteeptoscaleWithuprightwingagainstahigherfoe。

Letsuchbethinkthem，ifthesleepydrenchOfthatforgetfulLakebenummenotstill，ThatinourpropermotionweascendUptoournativeseat:descentandfallTousisadverse。WhobutfeltoflateWhenthefierceFoehungonourbrok"nRearInsulting，andpursu"dusthroughtheDeep，WithwhatcompulsionandlaboriousflightWesunkthuslow?Th"ascentiseasiethen；

Th"eventisfear"d；shouldweagainprovokeOurstronger，someworsewayhiswrathmayfindToourdestruction:iftherebeinHellFeartobeworsedestroy"d:whatcanbeworseThentodwellhere，driv"noutfrombliss，condemn"dInthisabhorreddeeptoutterwoe；

WherepainofunextinguishablefireMustexerciseuswithouthopeofendTheVassalsofhisanger，whentheScourgeInexorably，andthetorturinghoureCallsustoPenance?Moredestroy"dthenthusWeshouldbequiteabolishtandexpire。

Whatfearwethen?whatdoubtwetoincenseHisutmostire?whichtothehighthenrag"d，Willeitherquiteconsumeus，andreduceTonothingthisessential，happierfarrThenmiserabletohaveeternalbeing:

OrifoursubstancebeindeedDivine，Andcannotceasetobe，weareatworstOnthissidenothing；andbyproofwefeelOurpowersufficienttodisturbhisHeav"n，AndwithperpetualinrodestoAllarme，Thoughinaccessible，hisfatalThrone:

WhichifnotVictoryisyetRevenge。

Heendedfrowning，andhislookdenounc"dDesperaterevenge，andBatteldangerousTolessthenGods。Onth"othersideuproseBELIAL，inactmoregracefulandhumane；

AfairerpersonlostnotHeav"n；heseemdFordignitycompos"dandhighexploit:

Butallwasfalseandhollow；thoughhisTongueDroptManna，andcouldmaketheworseappearThebetterreason，toperplexanddashMaturestCounsels:forhisthoughtswerelow；

Toviceindustrious，buttoNoblerdeedsTimorousandslothful:yethepleas"dtheeare，Andwithperswasiveaccentthusbegan。

IshouldbemuchforopenWarr，OPeers，Asnotbehindinhate；ifwhatwasurg"dMainreasontoperswadeimmediateWarr，Didnotdisswadememost，andseemtocastOminousconjectureonthewholesuccess:

WhenhewhomostexcelsinfactofArms，InwhathecounselsandinwhatexcelsMistrustful，groundshiscourageondespairAndutterdissolution，asthescopeOfallhisaim，aftersomedirerevenge。

First，whatRevenge?theTowrsofHeav"narefill"dWithArmedwatch，thatrenderallaccessImpregnable；oftontheborderingDeepEncampthirLegions，orwithobscurewingScoutfarrandwideintotheRealmofnight，Scorningsurprize。OrcouldwebreakourwayByforce，andatourheelsallHellshouldriseWithblackestInsurrection，toconfoundHeav"nspurestLight，yetourgreatEnemieAllincorruptiblewouldonhisThroneSitunpolluted，andth"EtherealmouldIncapableofstainwouldsoonexpelHermischief，andpurgeoffthebaserfireVictorious。Thusrepuls"d，ourfinalhopeIsflatdespair:wemustexasperateTh"AlmightyVictortospendallhisrage，Andthatmustendus，thatmustbeourcure，Tobenomore；sadcure；forwhowouldloose，Thoughfullofpain，thisintellectualbeing，ThosethoughtsthatwanderthroughEternity，Toperishrather，swallowdupandlostInthewidewombofuncreatednight，Devoidofsenseandmotion?andwhoknows，Letthisbegood，whetherourangryFoeCangiveit，orwillever?howhecanIsdoubtful；thatheneverwillissure。

Willhe，sowise，letlooseatoncehisire，Belikethroughimpotence，orunaware，TogivehisEnemiesthirwish，andendTheminhisanger，whomhisangersavesTopunishendless?whereforeceasewethen?

SaytheywhocounselWarr，wearedecreed，Reserv"danddestin"dtoEternalwoe；

Whateverdoing，whatcanwesuffermore，Whatcanwesufferworse?isthisthenworst，Thussitting，thusconsulting，thusinArms?

Whatwhenwefledamain，pursu"dandstrookWithHeav"nsafflictingThunder，andbesoughtTheDeeptoshelterus?thisHellthenseem"dArefugefromthosewounds:orwhenwelayChain"dontheburningLake?thatsurewasworse。

Whatifthebreaththatkindl"dthosegrimfiresAwak"dshouldblowthemintosevenfoldrageAndplungeusintheFlames?orfromaboveShouldintermittedvengeanceArmeagainHisredrighthandtoplagueus?whatifallHerstoreswereop"n"d，andthisFirmamentOfHellshouldspoutherCataractsofFire，Impendenthorrors，threatninghideousfallOnedayuponourheads；whileweperhapsDesigningorexhortinggloriousWarr，CaughtinafierieTempestshallbehurl"dEachonhisrocktransfixt，thesportandpreyOfrackingwhirlwinds，orforeversunkUnderyonboylingOcean，wraptinChains；

Theretoconversewitheverlastinggroans，Unrespited，unpitied，unrepreevd，Agesofhopelessend；thiswouldbeworse。

Warrtherefore，openorconceal"d，alikeMyvoicedisswades；forwhatcanforceorguileWithhim，orwhodeceivehismind，whoseeyeViewsallthingsatoneview?hefromheav"nshighthAlltheseourmotionsvain，seesandderides；

NotmoreAlmightytoresistourmightThenwisetofrustrateallourplotsandwiles。

Shallwethenlivethusvile，theraceofHeav"nThustrampl"d，thusexpell"dtosufferhereChains&；theseTorments?betterthesethenworseBymyadvice；sincefateinevitableSubduesus，andOmnipotentDecree，TheVictorswill。Tosuffer，astodoe，Ourstrengthisequal，northeLawunjustThatsoordains:thiswasatfirstresolv"d，Ifwewerewise，againstsogreatafoeContending，andsodoubtfulwhatmightfall。

Ilaugh，whenthosewhoattheSpearareboldAndvent"rous，ifthatfailthem，shrinkandfearWhatyettheyknowmustfollow，toendureExile，orignominy，orbonds，orpain，ThesentenceofthirConquerour:ThisisnowOurdoom；whichifwecansustainandbear，OurSupreamFoeintimemaymuchremitHisanger，andperhapsthusfarrremov"dNotmindusnotoffending，satisfi"dWithwhatispunish"t；whencetheseragingfiresWillslack"n，ifhisbreathstirnotthirflames。

OurpureressencethenwillovercomeThirnoxiousvapour，orenur"dnotfeel，Orchang"datlength，andtotheplaceconformdIntemperandinnature，willreceiveFamiliarthefierceheat，andvoidofpain；

Thishorrorwillgrowmilde，thisdarknesslight，Besideswhathopethenever-endingflightOffuturedaysmaybring，whatchance，whatchangeWorthwaiting，sinceourpresentlotappeersForhappythoughbutill，forillnotworst，Ifweprocurenottoourselvesmorewoe。

ThusBELIALwithwordscloath"dinreasonsgarbCounsel"dignobleease，andpeacefulsloath，Notpeace:andafterhimthusMAMMONspake。

EithertodisinthronetheKingofHeav"nWewarr，ifwarrbebest，ortoregainOurownrightlost:himtounthronewethenMayhope，wheneverlastingFateshallyeildTofickleChance，andCHAOSjudgethestrife:

TheformervaintohopearguesasvainThelatter:forwhatplacecanbeforusWithinHeav"nsbound，unlessHeav"nsLordsupreamWeoverpower?SupposeheshouldrelentAndpublishGracetoall，onpromisemadeOfnewSubjection；withwhateyescouldweStandinhispresencehumble，andreceiveStrictLawsimpos"d，tocelebratehisThroneWithwarbl"dHymns，andtohisGodheadsingForc"tHalleluiah"s；whileheLordlysitsOurenviedSovran，andhisAltarbreathesAmbrosialOdoursandAmbrosialFlowers，Ourservileofferings。ThismustbeourtaskInHeav"n，thisourdelight；howwearisomEternitysospentinworshippaidTowhomwehate。LetusnotthenpursueByforceimpossible，byleaveobtain"dUnacceptable，thoughinHeav"n，ourstateOfsplendidvassalage，butratherseekOurowngoodfromourselves，andfromourownLivetoourselves，thoughinthisvastrecess，Free，andtononeaccountable，preferringHardlibertybeforetheeasieyokeOfservilePomp。OurgreatnesswillappearThenmostconspicuous，whengreatthingsofsmall，Usefulofhurtful，prosperousofadverseWecancreate，andinwhatplacesoe"reThriveunderevil，andworkeaseoutofpainThroughlabourandendurance。ThisdeepworldOfdarknessdowedread?HowoftamidstThickcloudsanddarkdothHeav"nsall-rulingSireChoosetoreside，hisGloryunobscur"d，AndwiththeMajestyofdarknessroundCovershisThrone；fromwhencedeepthundersroarMust"ringthirrage，andHeav"nresemblesHell?

AsheourDarkness，cannotwehisLightImitatewhenweplease?ThisDesartsoileWantsnotherhiddenlustre，GemmsandGold；

Norwantweskillorart，fromwhencetoraiseMagnificence；andwhatcanHeav"nshewmore?

OurtormentsalsomayinlengthoftimeBecomeourElements，thesepiercingFiresAssoftasnowsevere，ourtemperchang"dIntotheirtemper；whichmustneedsremoveThesensibleofpain。AllthingsinviteTopeacefulCounsels，andthesettl"dStateOforder，howinsafetybestwemayComposeourpresentevils，withregardOfwhatweareandwhere，dismissingquiteAllthoughtsofWarr:yehavewhatIadvise。

Hescarcehadfinisht，whensuchmurmurfilldTh"Assembly，aswhenhollowRocksretainThesoundofblustringwinds，whichallnightlongHadrous"dtheSea，nowwithhoarsecadencelullSea-faringmenorewatcht，whoseBarkbychanceOrPinnaceanchorsinacraggyBayAftertheTempest:SuchapplausewasheardAsMAMMONended，andhisSentencepleas"d，Advisingpeace:forsuchanotherFieldTheydreadedworsethenHell:somuchthefearOfThunderandtheSwordofMICHAEL

Wroughtstillwithinthem；andnolessdesireTofoundthisnetherEmpire，whichmightriseBypollicy，andlongprocessoftime，InemulationoppositetoHeav"n。

WhichwhenBEELZEBUBperceiv"d，thenwhom，SATANexcept，nonehighersat，withgraveAspectherose，andinhisrisingseem"dAPillarofState；deeponhisFrontengravenDeliberationsatandpublickcare；

AndPrincelycounselinhisfaceyetshon，Majestickthoughinruin:sagehestoodWithATLANTEANshouldersfittobearTheweightofmightiestMonarchies；hislookDrewaudienceandattentionstillasNightOrSummersNoon-tideair，whilethushespake。

ThronesandimperialPowers，off-springofheav"n，EtherealVertues；ortheseTitlesnowMustwerenounce，andchangingstilebecall"dPrincesofHell?forsothepopularvoteInclines，heretocontinue，andbuilduphereAgrowingEmpire；doubtless；whilewedream，AndknownotthattheKingofHeav"nhathdoom"dThisplaceourdungeon，notoursaferetreatBeyondhisPotentarm，toliveexemptFromHeav"nshighjurisdiction，innewLeagueBandedagainsthisThrone，buttoremaineInstrictestbondage，thoughthusfarremov"d，Underth"inevitablecurb，reserv"dHiscaptivemultitude:Forhe，besure，Inhighthordepth，stillfirstandlastwillReignSoleKing，andofhisKingdomloosenopartByourrevolt，butoverHellextendHisEmpire，andwithIronScepterruleUshere，aswithhisGoldenthoseinHeav"n。

WhatsitwethenprojectingPeaceandWarr?

Warrhathdetermin"dus，andfoildwithlossIrreparable；tearmsofpeaceyetnoneVoutsaf"torsought；forwhatpeacewillbegiv"nTousenslav"d，butcustodysevere，Andstripes，andarbitrarypunishmentInflicted?andwhatpeacecanwereturn，Buttoourpowerhostilityandhate，Untam"dreluctance，andrevengethoughslow，YeteverplottinghowtheConquerourleastMayreaphisconquest，andmayleastrejoyceIndoingwhatwemostinsufferingfeel?

Norwilloccasionwant，norshallweneedWithdangerousexpeditiontoinvadeHeav"n，whosehighwallsfearnoassaultorSiege，OrambushfromtheDeep。WhatifwefindSomeeasierenterprize?Thereisaplace(IfancientandpropheticfameinHeav"nErrnot)anotherWorld，thehappyseatOfsomnewRacecall"dMAN，aboutthistimeTobecreatedliketous，thoughlessInpowerandexcellence，butfavour"dmoreOfhimwhorulesabove；sowashiswillPronounc"damongtheGods，andbyanOath，ThatshookHeav"nswholcircumference，confirm"d。

Thitherletusbendallourthoughts，tolearnWhatcreaturesthereinhabit，ofwhatmould，Orsubstance，howendu"d，andwhatthirPower，Andwherethirweakness，howattemptedbest，Byforceorsuttlety:ThoughHeav"nbeshut，AndHeav"nshighArbitratorsitsecureInhisownstrength，thisplacemaylyeexpos"dTheutmostborderofhisKingdom，leftTotheirdefencewhoholdit:hereperhapsSomadvantagiousactmaybeachiev"dBysuddenonset，eitherwithHellfireTowastehiswholeCreation，orpossessAllasourown，anddriveasweweredriven，Thepuniehabitants，orifnotdrive，SeducethemtoourParty，thatthirGodMayprovethirfoe，andwithrepentinghandAbolishhisownworks。ThiswouldsurpassCommonrevenge，andinterrupthisjoyInourConfusion，andourJoyupraiseInhisdisturbance；whenhisdarlingSonsHurl"dheadlongtopartakewithus，shallcurseThirfrailOriginals，andfadedbliss，Fadedsosoon。AdviseifthisbeworthAttempting，ortositindarknesshereHatchingvainEmpires。ThusBEELZEBUB

PleadedhisdevilishCounsel，firstdevis"dBySATAN，andinpartpropos"d:forwhence，ButfromtheAuthorofallillcouldSpringSodeepamalice，toconfoundtheraceOfmankindinoneroot，andEarthwithHellTomingleandinvolve，donealltospiteThegreatCreatour?ButthirspitestillservesHisglorytoaugment。ThebolddesignPleas"dhighlythoseinfernalStates，andjoySparkl"dinallthireyes；withfullassentTheyvote:whereathisspeechhethusrenews。

Wellhaveyejudg"d，wellendedlongdebate，SynodofGods，andliketowhatyeare，Greatthingsresolv"d；whichfromthelowestdeepWilloncemoreliftusup，inspightofFate，NeererourancientSeat；perhapsinviewOfthosebrightconfines，whencewithneighbouringArmsAndopportuneexcursionwemaychanceRe-enterHeav"n；orelseinsomemildeZoneDwellnotunvisitedofHeav"nsfairLightSecure，andatthebrightningOrientbeamPurgeoffthisgloom；thesoftdeliciousAir，TohealthescarrofthesecorrosiveFiresShallbreathherbalme。ButfirstwhomshallwesendInsearchofthisnewworld，whomshallwefindSufficient?whoshalltemptwithwandringfeetThedarkunbottom"dinfiniteAbyssAndthroughthepalpableobscurefindoutHisuncouthway，orspreadhisaerieflightUpbornwithindefatigablewingsOverthevastabrupt，erehearriveThehappyIle；whatstrength，whatartcanthenSuffice，orwhatevasionbearhimsafeThroughthestrictSenteriesandStationsthickOfAngelswatchinground?HerehehadneedAllcircumspection，andwenownolessChoiceinoursuffrage；foronwhomwesend，Theweightofallandourlasthoperelies。

Thissaid，hesat；andexpectationheldHislooksuspence，awaitingwhoappeer"dTosecond，oroppose，orundertakeTheperilousattempt:butallsatmute，Ponderingthedangerwithdeepthoughts；&；eachInotherscount"nanceredhisowndismayAstonisht:noneamongthechoiceandprimeOfthoseHeav"n-warringChampionscouldbefoundSohardieastoprofferoracceptAlonethedreadfulvoyage；tillatlastSATAN，whomnowtranscendentgloryrais"dAbovehisfellows，withMonarchalprideConsciousofhighestworth，unmov"dthusspake。

OProgenyofHeav"n，EmpyrealThrones，WithreasonhathdeepsilenceanddemurrSeis"dus，thoughundismaid:longisthewayAndhard，thatoutofHellleadsuptoLight；

Ourprisonstrong，thishugeconvexofFire，Outrageoustodevour，immuresusroundNinefold，andgatesofburningAdamantBarr"doverusprohibitallegress。

Thesepast，ifanypass，thevoidprofoundOfunessentialNightreceiveshimnextWidegaping，andwithutterlossofbeingThreatenshim，plung"dinthatabortivegulf。

Ifthencehescapeintowhateverworld，OrunknownRegion，whatremainshimlessThenunknowndangersandashardescape。

ButIshouldillbecomethisThrone，OPeers，AndthisImperialSov"ranty，adorn"dWithsplendor，arm"dwithpower，ifaughtpropos"dAndjudg"dofpublicmoment，intheshapeOfdifficultyordangercoulddeterreMefromattempting。WhereforedoIassumeTheseRoyalties，andnotrefusetoReign，RefusingtoacceptasgreatashareOfhazardasofhonour，duealikeTohimwhoReigns，andsomuchtohimdueOfhazardmore，asheabovetherestHighhonourdsits?Gotherforemightypowers，TerrorofHeav"n，thoughfall"n；intendathome，Whilehereshallbeourhome，whatbestmayeaseThepresentmisery，andrenderHellMoretollerable；iftherebecureorcharmTorespiteordeceive，orslackthepainOfthisillMansion:intermitnowatchAgainstawakefulFoe，whileIabroadThroughallthecoastsofdarkdestructionseekDeliveranceforusall:thisenterprizeNoneshallpartakewithme。ThussayingroseTheMonarch，andpreventedallreply，Prudent，leastfromhisresolutionrais"dOthersamongthechiefmightoffernow(Certaintoberefus"d)whatersttheyfeard；

Andsorefus"dmightinopinionstandHisrivals，winningcheapthehighreputeWhichhethroughhazardhugemustearn。ButtheyDreadednotmoreth"adventurethenhisvoiceForbidding；andatoncewithhimtheyrose；

ThirrisingallatoncewasasthesoundOfThunderheardremote。TowardshimtheybendWithawfulreverenceprone；andasaGodExtollhimequaltothehighestinHeav"n:

Norfail"dtheytoexpresshowmuchtheyprais"d，Thatforthegeneralsafetyhedespis"dHisown:forneitherdotheSpiritsdamn"dLooseallthirvertue；leastbadmenshouldboastThirspeciousdeedsonearth，whichgloryexcites，Orcloseambitionvarnishto"rewithzeal。

ThustheythirdoubtfulconsultationsdarkEndedrejoycinginthirmatchlessChief:

AswhenfrommountaintopstheduskycloudsAscending，whiletheNorthwindsleeps，o"respreadHeav"nschearfulface，thelowringElementScowlsorethedark"ndlantskipSnow，orshowre；

IfchancetheradiantSunwithfarewellsweetExtendhisev"ningbeam，thefieldsrevive，Thebirdsthirnotesrenew，andbleatingherdsAttestthirjoy，thathillandvalleyrings。

Oshametomen！DevilwithDevildamn"dFirmconcordholds，menonelydisagreeOfCreaturesrational，thoughunderhopeOfheavenlyGrace:andGodproclaimingpeace，Yetliveinhatred，enmitie，andstrifeAmongthemselves，andleviecruelwarres，WastingtheEarth，eachothertodestroy:

Asif(whichmightinduceustoaccord)

Manhadnothellishfoesanowbesides，Thatdayandnightforhisdestructionwaite。

TheSTYGIANCouncelthusdissolv"d；andforthInordercamethegrandinfernalPeers，MidstcamethirmightyParamount，andseemdAloneth"AntagonistofHeav"n，norlessThenHellsdreadEmperourwithpompSupream，AndGod-likeimitatedState；himroundAGlobeoffierieSeraphiminclos"dWithbrightimblazonrie，andhorrentArms。

ThenofthirSessionendedtheybidcryWithTrumpetsregalsoundthegreatresult:

TowardthefourwindsfourspeedyCherubimPuttothirmouthsthesoundingAlchymieByHaraldsvoiceexplain"d:thehollowAbyssHeardfarrandwide，andallthehostofHellWithdeafningshout，return"dthemloudacclaim。

Thencemoreateasethirmindsandsomwhatrais"dByfalsepresumptuoushope，therangedpowersDisband，andwandring，eachhisseveralwayPursues，asinclinationorsadchoiceLeadshimperplext，wherehemaylikeliestfindTrucetohisrestlessthoughts，andentertainTheirksomehours，tillhisgreatChiefreturn。

PartonthePlain，orintheAirsublimeUponthewing，orinswiftracecontend，Asatth"OlympianGamesorPYTHIANfields；

PartcurbthirfierieSteeds，orshuntheGoalWithrapidwheels，orfrontedBrigadsform。

AswhentowarnproudCitieswarrappearsWag"dinthetroubl"dSkie，andArmiesrushToBattelintheClouds，beforeeachVanPricforththeAerieKnights，andcouchthirspearsTillthickestLegionsclose；withfeatsofArmsFromeitherendofHeav"nthewelkinburns。

OtherswithvastTYPHOEANragemorefellRendupbothRocksandHills，andridetheAirInwhirlwind；Hellscarceholdsthewildeuproar。

AswhenALCIDESfromOEALIACrown"dWithconquest，feltth"envenom"drobe，andtoreThroughpainupbytherootsTHESSALIANPines，AndLICHASfromthetopofOETAthrewIntoth"EUBOICSea。Othersmoremilde，Retreatedinasilentvalley，singWithnotesAngelicaltomanyaHarpThirownHeroicdeedsandhaplessfallBydoomofBattel；andcomplainthatFateFreeVertueshouldenthralltoForceorChance。

Thirsongwaspartial，buttheharmony(WhatcoulditlesswhenSpiritsimmortalsing?)

SuspendedHell，andtookwithravishmentThethrongingaudience。Indiscoursemoresweet(ForEloquencetheSoul，SongcharmstheSense，)

OthersapartsatonaHillretir"d，Inthoughtsmoreelevate，andreason"dhighOfProvidence，Foreknowledge，Will，andFate，FixtFate，freewill，foreknowledgeabsolute，Andfoundnoend，inwandringmazeslost。

Ofgoodandevilmuchtheyargu"dthen，Ofhappinessandfinalmisery，PassionandApathie，andgloryandshame，Vainwisdomall，andfalsePhilosophie:

YetwithapleasingsorceriecouldcharmPainforawhileoranguish，andexciteFallacioushope，orarmth"obduredbrestWithstubbornpatienceaswithtriplesteel。

AnotherpartinSquadronsandgrossBands，OnboldadventuretodiscoverwideThatdismalworld，ifanyClimeperhapsMightyeildthemeasierhabitation，bendFourwaysthirflyingMarch，alongtheBanksOffourinfernalRiversthatdisgorgeIntotheburningLakethirbalefulstreams；

AbhorredSTYXthefloodofdeadlyhate，SadACHERONofsorrow，blackanddeep；

COCYTUS，nam"doflamentationloudHeardontherufulstream；fiercePHLEGETON

Whosewavesoftorrentfireinflamewithrage。

Farrofffromtheseaslowandsilentstream，LETHEtheRiverofOblivionroulesHerwatrieLabyrinth，whereofwhodrinks，Forthwithhisformerstateandbeingforgets，Forgetsbothjoyandgrief，pleasureandpain。

BeyondthisfloodafrozenContinentLiesdarkandwilde，beatwithperpetualstormsOfWhirlwindanddireHail，whichonfirmlandThawsnot，butgathersheap，andruinseemsOfancientpile；allelsedeepsnowandice，AgulfprofoundasthatSERBONIANBogBetwixtDAMIATAandmountCASIUSold，WhereArmieswholehavesunk:theparchingAirBurnsfrore，andcoldperformsth"effectofFire。

Thitherbyharpy-footedFurieshail"d，Atcertainrevolutionsallthedamn"dArebrought:andfeelbyturnsthebitterchangeOffierceextreams，extreamsbychangemorefierce，FromBedsofragingFiretostarveinIceThirsoftEtherealwarmth，andtheretopineImmovable，infixt，andfrozenround，Periodsoftime，thencehurriedbacktofire。

TheyferryoverthisLETHEANSoundBothtoandfro，thirsorrowtoaugment，Andwishandstruggle，astheypass，toreachThetemptingstream，withonesmalldroptolooseInsweetforgetfulnessallpainandwoe，Allinonemoment，andsoneerthebrink；

Butfatewithstands，andtoopposeth"attemptMEDUSAwithGORGONIANterrorguardsTheFord，andofitselfthewaterfliesAlltasteoflivingwight，asonceitfledThelipofTANTALUS。ThusrovingonInconfus"dmarchforlorn，th"adventrousBandsWithshuddringhorrorpale，andeyesagastView"dfirstthirlamentablelot，andfoundNorest:throughmanyadarkanddrearieVaileTheypass"d，andmanyaRegiondolorous，O"remanyaFrozen，manyaFierieAlpe，Rocks，Caves，Lakes，Fens，Bogs，Dens，andshadesofdeath，AUniverseofdeath，whichGodbycurseCreatedevil，forevilonlygood，Wherealllifedies，deathlives，andnaturebreeds，Perverse，allmonstrous，allprodigiousthings，Abominable，inutterable，andworseThenFablesyethavefeign"d，orfearconceiv"d，GORGONSandHYDRA"S，andCHIMERA"Sdire。

MeanwhiletheAdversaryofGodandMan，SATANwiththoughtsinflam"dofhighestdesign，Putsonswiftwings，andtowardtheGatesofHellExploreshissolitaryflight；somtimesHescourstherighthandcoast，somtimestheleft，NowshaveswithlevelwingtheDeep，thensoaresUptothefieryconcavetouringhigh。

AswhenfarroffatSeaaFleetdescri"dHangsintheClouds，byAEQUINOCTIALWindsClosesailingfromBENGALA，ortheIlesOfTERNATEandTIDORE，whenceMerchantsbringThirspicieDrugs:theyonthetradingFloodThroughthewideETHIOPIANtotheCapePlystemmingnightlytowardthePole。Soseem"dFarrofftheflyingFiend:atlastappeerHellboundshighreachingtothehorridRoof，AndthricethreefoldtheGates；threefoldswereBrassThreeIron，threeofAdamantineRock，Impenitrable，impal"dwithcirclingfire，Yetunconsum"d。BeforetheGatestheresatOneithersideaformidableshape；

Theoneseem"dWomantothewaste，andfair，ButendedfoulinmanyascalyfouldVoluminousandvast，aSerpentarm"dWithmortalsting:abouthermiddleroundAcryofHellHoundsneverceasingbark"dWithwideCERBEREANmouthsfullloud，andrungAhideousPeal:yet，whentheylist，wouldcreep，Ifaughtdisturb"dthirnoyse，intoherwoomb，Andkennelthere，yettherestillbark"dandhowl"dWithinunseen。FarrlessabhorrdthentheseVex"dSCYLLAbathingintheSeathatpartsCALABRIAfromthehoarceTRINACRIANshore:

NoruglierfollowtheNight-Hag，whencall"dInsecret，ridingthroughtheAirshecomesLur"dwiththesmellofinfantblood，todanceWithLAPLANDWitches，whilethelabouringMoonEclipsesatthircharms。Theothershape，Ifshapeitmightbecall"dthatshapehadnoneDistinguishableinmember，joynt，orlimb，Orsubstancemightbecall"dthatshadowseem"d，Foreachseem"deither；blackitstoodasNight，FierceastenFuries，terribleasHell，AndshookadreadfulDart；whatseem"dhisheadThelikenessofaKinglyCrownhadon。

SATANwasnowathand，andfromhisseatTheMonstermovingonwardcameasfast，Withhorridstrides，Helltrembledashestrode。

Th"undauntedFiendwhatthismightbeadmir"d，Admir"d，notfear"d；GodandhisSonexcept，Createdthingnaughtvallu"dhenorshun"d；

Andwithdisdainfullookthusfirstbegan。

Whenceandwhatartthou，execrableshape，Thatdar"st，thoughgrimandterrible，advanceThymiscreatedFrontathwartmywayToyonderGates?throughthemImeantopass，Thatbeassur"d，withoutleaveasktofthee:

Retire，ortastethyfolly，andlearnbyproof，Hell-born，nottocontendwithSpiritsofHeav"n。

TowhomtheGoblinfullofwrauthreply"d，ArtthouthatTraitorAngel，artthouhee，WhofirstbrokepeaceinHeav"nandFaith，tillthenUnbrok"n，andinproudrebelliousArmsDrewafterhimthethirdpartofHeav"nsSonsConjur"dagainstthehighest，forwhichbothThouAndtheyoutcastfromGod，areherecondemn"dTowasteEternaldaiesinwoeandpain?

Andreck"n"stthouthyselfwithSpiritsofHeav"n，Hell-doomd，andbreath"stdefiancehereandscorn，WhereIreignKing，andtoenragetheemore，ThyKingandLord?Backtothypunishment，Falsefugitive，andtothyspeedaddwings，LeastwithawhipofScorpionsIpursueThylingring，orwithonestrokeofthisDartStrangehorrorseisethee，andpangsunfeltbefore。

Sospakethegrieslieterrour，andinshape，Sospeakingandsothreatning，grewtenfoldMoredreadfulanddeform:onth"othersideIncenc"twithindignationSATANstoodUnterrifi"d，andlikeaCometburn"d，ThatfiresthelengthofOPHIUCUShugeInth"ArtickSky，andfromhishorridhairShakesPestilenceandWarr。EachattheHeadLevel"dhisdeadlyaime；thirfatallhandsNosecondstrokeintend，andsuchafrownEachcastatth"other，aswhentwoblackCloudsWithHeav"nsArtilleryfraught，comerattlingonOvertheCASPIAN，thenstandfronttofrontHov"ringaspace，tillWindsthesignalblowTojoynthirdarkEncounterinmidair:

SofrowndthemightyCombatants，thatHellGrewdarkeratthirfrown，somatchttheystood；

ForneverbutoncemorewaseitherlikeTomeetsogreatafoe:andnowgreatdeedsHadbeenachiev"d，whereofallHellhadrung，HadnottheSnakieSorceressthatsatFastbyHellGate，andkeptthefatalKey，Ris"n，andwithhideousoutcryrush"dbetween。

OFather，whatintendsthyhand，shecry"d，AgainstthyonlySon?WhatfuryOSon，PossessestheetobendthatmortalDartAgainstthyFathershead?andknow"stforwhom；

ForhimwhositsaboveandlaughsthewhileAttheeordain"dhisdrudge，toexecuteWhate"rehiswrath，whichhecallsJustice，bids，Hiswrathwhichonedaywilldestroyyeboth。

Shespake，andatherwordsthehellishPestForbore，thenthesetoherSATANreturn"d:

Sostrangethyoutcry，andthywordssostrangeThouinterposest，thatmysuddenhandPreventedsparestotelltheeyetbydeedsWhatitintends；tillfirstIknowofthee，Whatthingthouart，thusdouble-form"d，andwhyInthisinfernalVailefirstmetthoucall"stMeFather，andthatFantasmcall"stmySon?

Iknowtheenot，noreversawtillnowSightmoredetestablethenhimandthee。