Question

1. if epic poetry announces its hero, and the heros most significant characteristic or action, then what does the opening of paradise lost (\of mans first disobedience\) suggest?

a. adam and eve should not have disobeyed god.
b. satan is the hero of the poem.
c. adam and eve are the heroes of the poem.
d. god is the hero of the poem.

1. when satan says \better to reign in hell than serve in heaven,\ he means that

a. government should be by the people, not by divine right.
b. equality should be the principle of good government.
c. he will be a better ruler than god is.
d. power is worth any price it takes to achieve it.

Explanation:

• Question 1: In Paradise Lost, the poem focuses on the fall of man (Adam and Eve's disobedience). While Satan is a prominent figure, the epic's main concern is the story of Adam and Eve. The opening lines set the stage for their story as the central narrative.
• Question 2: Satan's statement "Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven" emphasizes his desire for power. He would rather have control (reign) in a negative place (Hell) than be subservient (serve) in a positive one (Heaven), showing that power is of utmost importance to him regardless of the cost.

Answer:

1. c. Adam and Eve are the heroes of the poem.
2. d. Power is worth any price it takes to achieve it.