Human Fall in Milton’s Paradise Lost: Book 9: A Narrative of Ecological Domination

Author(s) : Mamoona Anwar, Syrrina Ahsan Ali Haque

Abstract:

This research contests the Fall of Adam and Eve in Milton’s Paradise lost: Book 9, as a narrative of ecological domination, shifting the focus from theology to ecology. In so doing, it highlights the Fall of Adam and Eve as the point of departure, to trace the fragility of the ecosystem in relation to human domination. Moreover, the study aims to challenge the traditionally associated symbolism of the Fall by exposing the ideological basis of the anthropocene, establishing human mastery over nature, leading to ecological imbalance. The objective then, is to situate the Fall in the context of ecological crisis as a means to address the relevance of Paradise lost as an environmental concern. While existing scholarship establishes humans as stewards of the Earth, this paper exposes the research gap in redefining human–nature hierarchical relationship as anthropogenic. An in-depth analysis of selected passages from Paradise lost: Book 9, is based on engagement with Richard Grove’s concept of ecological imperialism. In addition to this, the research employs multiple other secondary sources to support the thesis. This study ascertains the Fall as the initial most fissure in ecological exploitation. Most significantly, the findings of this research can deepen understanding of canonical texts as a repository of environmental challenges encroaching upon the ecosystem.

Keywords: Ecology, Paradise Lost, anthropocene, hierarchy, exploitation, environment