: Milton explores the idea that humans were created "sufficient to have stood, though free to fall," meaning they had the choice to obey or disobey.

: Satan enters the Garden of Eden and convinces Eve, and subsequently Adam, to eat the forbidden fruit from the Tree of Knowledge .

For a deeper look into the major symbols and themes that define Milton's epic, you can watch this summary: Paradise Lost by John Milton | Symbols Course Hero YouTube• Nov 28, 2018

The poem is structured into twelve "books" and begins in media res (in the middle of the action).

The poem is famous for its complex characterization of Satan, who is often seen as a tragic or even heroic figure in the early books due to his "unconquerable will".