74 pages 2 hours read

John Milton

Paradise Lost

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1667

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During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Reading Check and Short Answer Questions on key points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

BOOK 1

Reading Check

1. Where does the first book of Paradise Lost take place?

2. What is the name of the temple of the fallen angels?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. How does Satan plan to continue his war against God?

Paired Resource

The Devil

  • This article from History.com discusses the origins and history of the Devil, primarily through the religion of Christianity.
  • This connects to the themes of Individual Freedom and Self-Determination and The Paradox of the Pursuit of Knowledge.
  • What is the Devil called in various religions and cultures? How have ideas about the Devil changed over time?

BOOK 2

Reading Check

1. Who does Satan meet as he is leaving Hell?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. How does Beelzebub suggest the fallen angels continue their war against God?

2. How does Satan convince Chaos to give him direction to Earth?

BOOK 3

Reading Check

1. Whom does Milton invoke to help him tell his story?

2. Who volunteers to sacrifice themself to save humanity?