A Preface to Paradise Lost

ISBN: 0063222132

Author: Lewis, C. S.

Condition: New

C. S. Lewiss illuminating reflections on Miltons Paradise Lost, the seminal classic that profoundly influenced Christian thought as well as Lewiss own.In Preface to Paradise Lost, the Christian apologist and revered scholar and professor of literature closely examines the style, content, structure, and themes of Miltons masterpiece, a retelling of the biblical story of the Fall of Humankind, Satans temptation, and the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden. Considering the story within the context of the Western literary tradition, Lewis offers invaluable insights into Paradise Lost and the nature of literature itself, unveiling the poems beauty and its wisdom.Lewis explains and defends the literary form known as Epic, pondering simple yet perceptive questions such as: What is an Epic? Why, in the seventeenth century, did Milton choose to write his story in this style? In what sense is Paradise Lost similar to the Homeric poems or the Anglo Saxon Beowulf? In what sense did Milton develop Virgils legacy?With the clarity of thought and style that are the hallmarks of his writing, Lewis provides answers with a lucidity and lightness that deepens our understanding of this literary form and both illuminates Miltons immortal epic and its meaning and inspires readers to revisit it. Ultimately, he reminds us why elements including ritual, splendor, and joy deserve to exist and hold a sacred place in human life.One of Lewiss most revered scholarly works, Preface to Paradise Lost is indispensable for literature, philosophy, and religion scholars and for ardent fans of Lewiss writings.