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Paradise Lost Hardcover - 1983

by Milton, John


About this book

Paradise Lost is an epic poem written by John Milton, first published in 1667. Set against the backdrop of Adam and Eve's fall from grace in the Garden of Eden, the poem explores complex themes of sin, free will, and the nature of evil. Milton skillfully crafts vivid imagery and powerful metaphors to depict Satan's rebellion against God, his subsequent expulsion from heaven, and his relentless pursuit of revenge. The narrative follows the interplay between God, Satan, and mankind, with Milton's eloquent verse conveying profound moral and theological reflections. Paradise Lost remains a timeless masterpiece, inspiring readers to contemplate the eternal struggle between good and evil.

First Edition Identification

John Milton’s Paradise Lost was firstly published in 1667, divided into ten books. In the 1674 edition was reorganized into twelve books. 

The first edition of the poem was printed in London by S. Simmons. Simmons issued the first 1,200 copies of the edition over a few years, with varying title pages. By the time the 1,200 copies of the first run had sold out, seven different variations of the title page had been produced, bearing dates of 1667, 1668 and 1669. There is no known relationship between when a given copy of the text itself was printed, and the attached title page, making establishing priority difficult.

In 1668 Milton added a preliminary matter. These include “The Argument,” a description of the program of each of the books, and “The Verse”, where the author defends his use of blank verse. 

First editions were bound in leather, spine paneled with gilt lettering, and gold gilt-edged pages.


Details

  • Title Paradise Lost
  • Author Milton, John
  • Binding Hardcover
  • Publisher Jupiter Books
  • Date 1983
  • ISBN 9780881689747