In reading the beginning of Book I of Milton's Paradise Lost I noticed the strange portrayal of the devil as an almost heroic figure. The picture is painted of Lucifer's fall from grace as he was plunged into the depths of hell for his disobedience; instead of seeing a traitorous demon, the reader sees a rebellious angel who stood against a tyrant. It was odd to me that God was portrayed as a tyrant, this negative portrayal highlights Lucifer and elevates him as a heroic figure. "Better to reign in Hell, than to serve in Heav'n." These powerful words, spoken by "the hero" are a testament to his defiance of the Almighty and make God seem even more a tyrant since his fallen angel would rather burn in fire eternally than serve him.
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