Paradise Lost (Book 12) - John Milton
/Paradise Lost (Book 12) - John Milton/
Adam’s Final Vision and Humanity’s Ongoing Hope
Original (Line 1): As one who in his journey bates at noon
English (Line 1): As one who in his journey bates at noon
Original (Line 2): Though bent on speed; so here the Archangel paused
English (Line 2): Though bent on speed; so here the Archangel paused
Original (Line 3): Betwixt the world destroyed and world restored,
English (Line 3): Betwixt the world destroyed and world restored,
Original (Line 4): If Adam aught perhaps might interpose;
English (Line 4): If Adam aught perhaps might interpose;
Original (Line 5): Then, with transition sweet, new speech resumes.
English (Line 5): Then, with transition sweet, new speech resumes.
Original (Line 6): Thus thou hast seen one world begin and end;
English (Line 6): Thus thou hast seen one world begin and end;
Original (Line 7): And Man, as from a second stock, proceed.
English (Line 7): And Man, as from a second stock, proceed.
Original (Line 8): Much thou hast yet to see; but I perceive
English (Line 8): Much thou hast yet to see; but I perceive
Original (Line 9): Thy mortal sight to fail;
English (Line 9): Thy mortal sight to fail;
Original (Line 10): Objects divine must needs impair and weary.
English (Line 10): Objects divine must needs impair and weary.
Excerpt from the opening of Book 12. Full text is in the public domain.
Book 12 of John Milton’s “Paradise Lost” completes the grand arc of humanity’s transition from Eden to exile. Having received a sweeping look at humankind’s future in the preceding book, Adam now stands on the brink of leaving Paradise for good. The archangel Michael continues his revelation, demonstrating the trials, triumphs, and redemptive possibilities lying ahead.
Michael outlines future epochs—from the lineage of Noah and Abraham to the Israelites’ journey, eventually hinting at the Messiah who will offer ultimate salvation. This progression underscores Milton’s thematic emphasis on divine providence guiding human history, even through sin and suffering. Adam’s response, marked by renewed faith, suggests a crucial truth: while Eden is lost, spiritual harmony remains within reach.
In this closing portion of the epic, Milton weaves together two essential messages. First, that repentance and humility open a pathway to grace, reminding readers that exile need not mean despair. Second, that the human journey is defined by the interplay of free will and divine mercy, shaping our destiny through choice and providence. By following Adam and Eve as they depart Eden hand in hand—grieving yet hopeful—Milton offers a parting image of resilience and faith that resonates far beyond the garden’s borders.
Key points
1. Humility and repentance cultivate hope even in exile.
2. History unfolds under divine guidance, balancing free will with providence.
3. The promise of salvation endures despite humanity’s frailty.
4. Leaving Eden signals not an end, but a new beginning in faith.
