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The Council in Hell

From Paradise Lost, Book II, by John Milton

Paradise Lost was first published in 1667 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest epic poems in the English language. John Milton, writing during the turbulent years of the English Civil War and Restoration, composed this vast work over several years while blind, dictating it to amanuenses. Book II presents the fallen angels' council in Hell, where they debate their next course of action after their defeat in Heaven. This text reflects its era in language, cosmology, and classical references; a few archaic terms have been modernised for clarity. Milton drew on classical epic conventions established by Homer and Virgil, on biblical narrative, and on his own republican political experience to create a work that explores free will, authority, persuasion, and the nature of evil. The council scene demonstrates Milton's dramatic power and his ability to give eloquent voice to positions he ultimately condemns—the fallen angels speak with rhetorical brilliance even as their arguments reveal moral bankruptcy. This passage is worth a senior reader's attention because it models both the possibilities and the dangers of persuasive language, and because it presents leadership, counsel, and political manoeuvring with psychological depth that remains relevant across centuries.

Band

Red · Complex language and analysisTypical starting range: ages 15–17

Length

long · about 1280 words in 5 sections · 2 pictures

Source

Paradise Lost, John Milton

First published

see the About page in the reader

Regions

Canada · United States

Included formats

• · Web reader and PDF
• · EPUB for e-readers
• · Home-print sheet
• · Folded booklet
• · Binder edition (8.5 × 11)
• · Worksheet
• · Quick Check (10 questions) with answer key
• · Read-aloud script
• · Teacher’s Edition (members)

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