Son

Definition

In literature, particularly in religious and philosophical contexts, 'son' refers to a male offspring, but it also carries deeper meanings such as the idea of divine relationship and representation. In 'Paradise Lost', the term is especially significant as it embodies themes of sacrifice, obedience, and the restoration of humanity's lost innocence through the figure of Jesus Christ, often referred to as the Son of God. This title emphasizes his unique role in the cosmic narrative of salvation and highlights the intimate connection between the divine and humanity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Paradise Lost' portrays the Son as a pivotal figure who ultimately reconciles humanity with God after the Fall.
2. The Son's willingness to sacrifice himself is depicted as an act of love and obedience, contrasting with Adam and Eve's disobedience.
3. Milton emphasizes the Son's pre-existence before creation, underscoring his divine authority and role in the act of creation.
4. The title 'Son' signifies both a familial relationship within the Holy Trinity and the broader implications of hope for mankind’s redemption.
5. The portrayal of the Son in 'Paradise Lost' highlights themes of justice and mercy, illustrating how divine justice is fulfilled through his suffering.

Review Questions

• How does Milton use the figure of the Son to contrast with Adam and Eve's actions in 'Paradise Lost'?
  • Milton contrasts the Son with Adam and Eve by showcasing the Son's obedience to God's will against their disobedience, which leads to the Fall. While Adam and Eve succumb to temptation and choose self-interest over divine command, the Son embodies perfect fidelity and willingness to sacrifice himself for humanity's redemption. This juxtaposition emphasizes the themes of choice, responsibility, and the possibility of redemption through selfless love.
• Discuss the significance of the Son's pre-existence in 'Paradise Lost' and its implications for understanding creation.
  • The significance of the Son's pre-existence is crucial for understanding both his divine authority and his integral role in creation. Milton presents the Son as existing alongside God before all things were made, suggesting that he was actively involved in the creation process. This pre-eminence establishes him not just as a savior post-Fall but as a foundational aspect of the universe, thus highlighting a continuum between creation and salvation.
• Evaluate how Milton's depiction of the Son reflects broader theological concepts within Christianity as portrayed in 'Paradise Lost'.
  • Milton's depiction of the Son reflects key theological concepts such as redemption, sacrifice, and divine justice central to Christian doctrine. The portrayal illustrates how through his suffering and obedience, humanity is offered a path back to grace following the Fall. This aligns with Christian beliefs about Jesus’ role in salvation history, embodying themes like hope, mercy, and reconciliation. Milton weaves these theological ideas into his narrative to provide a profound commentary on human nature and divine purpose.

Related terms

Fall of Man: The biblical event where Adam and Eve disobey God, resulting in their expulsion from Eden and the introduction of sin into the world.

Redemption: The act of being saved from sin or evil; in Christian theology, it often refers to Jesus' sacrifice for humanity's salvation.

Allegory:

A narrative that uses symbolic figures, actions, or events to convey deeper moral or spiritual meanings, often used in religious texts.