English Language and Literature ETDs

Publication Date

9-16-1968

Abstract

Previous studies of Paradise Lost and The State of Innocence have been concerned primarily with the question of rhyme and blank verse. Although the difference in versification is important, there are other areas of comparison which might also be profitably studied. The purpose of this paper is to examine the plots, characterization, and themes of these two works and to suggest several reasons for Dryden’s innovations. The plot of Dryden’s opera consists of incidents similar to those found in the epic. Dryden arranges his material in strict chronological order, discarding the “in media res” technique of Milton. Thus the sequence of events is slightly different in the opera. In addition, Dryden omits several characters and events which would have detracted from the unity of his play of been incredible on the stage. The most important changes occur in the characterization. Satan is a far more powerful figure than Lucifer. Dryden’s alteration of Satan’s character can be partially accounted for by his epic theories. Dryden’s chief criticism of Paradise Lost was that Satan, rather than, Adam and Eve, is the hero because he emerges in victor. In the opera, Lucifer becomes a less imposing factor in the fall of man and more attention is centered on Adam and Eve. Another radical alteration exists in Dryden’s concept of Adam and Eve who are less ideal than Milton’s first parents. Dryden’s characters reflect the influence of the heroic plays with their conflict between reason and passion. The different philosophical positions of the power of human reason is demonstrated in his creation of characters who accept and understand the rational laws which govern their universe. Dryden’s skepticism becomes obvious in Adam’s rejection of the belief that individual reason can understand or regulate human life and passion. The divergences in characterization and philosophical positions ultimately affect the themes of the two works. Both authors demonstrate a belief in n omnipotent and just God whose decrees man may either choose to accept or reject. Both show that rejection of these decrees brings tragedy. But Milton goes beyond this to prove that acceptance of the natural law results in peace and order. Man in the fallen state must strive to understand these laws which Adam and Eve knew intuitively with their undiminished reasons. Nevertheless, every man has the challenge to make actual the greatness that was once Adam and Eve’s. Dryden maintains that the decrees of a superior power must be accepted but he does not demonstrate Milton’s faith in the power of individual reason to discern these laws. Even in the idyllic state, Adam and Eve are incapable of understanding the forces which govern their lives. This leaves little hope for success in the fallen state. Perhaps Dryden is suggesting in The State of Innocence, as he does in other works, that individual reason cannot be trusted, and that man must allow himself to be ruled by the dictates of society which have withstood the test of time and are, therefore, more worthy of acceptance.

Degree Name

English

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

English

First Committee Member (Chair)

James Llewellyn Thorson

Second Committee Member

Edith Buchanan

Third Committee Member

Joseph Frank

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

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