Book VIII

Compare lines 15 and forward to Psalm 8. In what way is Adam's observation similar to the observation in the Psalm, and in what way is it different?

In what ways does Adam question God's decision in creation?

Why does Eve withdraw?

How does Raphael answer Adam's objection?

Does Raphael insist on the Ptolemeic scheme of the universe?

What opinion does Raphael have about the impact of scientific discovery on faith?

What is "the prime Wisdom"?

Why does Raphael listen to Adam's description of his creation?

What is the first question Adam asks, and how does he answer it?

What impulse causes Adam to awaken in Paradise?

How does God describe the results of eating the fruit? How is this different from other descriptions we have seen?

How does Adam occupy his time before Eve arrives?

Why does Adam request a companion? What kind of companion does he want? Why can't he just have a dog?

Is God mad at Adam for being discontented with his solitary state?

God reveals (lines 447-48) that Adam has passed a little test. What was the test, and how did Adam pass?

How does Adam describe Eve? Look for the oxymoron that helps define Adam's attitude.

What feeling does Adam have for Eve that we would normally associate with a fallen nature?

Why does Raphael frown on line 560?

How does Raphael describe proper love?

Why does Raphael blush on line 619?

What warning does Adam get that Eve doesn't get?

Milton Study Notes Page: allen/miltstud.htm