Lecture Review on Hamlet, Paradise Lost, and Biblical Themes

Exam Information

  • Final Exam Date: Monday at 8 AM.

  • Exam Content: Not cumulative; focuses on Hamlet and Paradise Lost.

  • Exam Structure: Similar to previous tests, specifically it’s test four.

Paradise Lost Overview

  • Context and Focus:

    • Milton's object is to prove the providence of God and justify His ways to men.

    • Major themes include God’s sovereignty and foreknowledge of human actions.

  • Key Events in Book 12:

    • Adam and Eve have left the Garden of Eden after consuming the apple, which leads to their punishment.

    • The punishment is not immediate death but a figurative death connected to sin.

    • God provides grace, as illustrated by the garments made from animal pelts.

Adam's Vision

  • Dream Vision: Adam dreams of Michael, who unveils the course of history to him.

  • Significance of the Vision: One notable aspect is the prophecy of the flood, indicating future corruption of mankind.

  • Theological Debate: God expresses regret for creating man, viewed as disgust rather than surprise, alongside the acknowledgment that God had foreseen the sinfulness of mankind.

The Flood Narrative

  • The Flood:

    • Milton's interpretation emphasizes the drastic measures of God against rampant human sin.

    • Questions about the nature of the flood: local versus global interpretations arise.

  • Cultural Representation:

    • The flood story is often misrepresented due to its themes of violence being overshadowed by portrayals designed for children, such as the inclusion of animals like giraffes and zebras.

Characters in the Flood Narrative

  • Noah:

    • Seen as a pivotal character who experiences God’s grace and patience amidst human failures.

    • Film Mention: The movie "Noah" depicts God as relatable, providing a new perspective on His wrath and patience.

The Tower of Babel

  • Nimrod's Tower:

    • Nimrod, known for hunting, builds the Tower of Babel as a representation of human beings attempting to ascend to heaven.

    • Confusion of languages leads to the scattering of humanity, serving as a punishment for their hubris.

  • Milton’s Theme: Milton indicates that monarchic tyranny is being questioned and critiqued through biblical narratives.

Historical Context

  • Political Themes:

    • Recognizes Milton’s anti-monarchical stance in light of England's historical conflict between Protestantism and Catholicism.

    • Historical background under Henry VIII and subsequent rulers demonstrates the struggle for religious identity in England.

Abraham and His Legacy

  • Significance of Abraham:

    • Abraham is promised many descendants likened to stars in the sky, despite his old age and childlessness.

    • Themes of faith and doubt, particularly illustrated through the narratives surrounding Isaac and Ishmael.

Issues of Polygamy

  • Biblical Stance: Polygamy is depicted as problematic and often leads to turmoil within the family structure.

  • Church Leadership:

    • Those aspiring to church elder positions must be a "one woman man", indicating a stance against polygamy in church leadership roles.

Slavery in the Bible

  • Slavery Interpretation:

    • Discussion surrounding biblical references to slavery points out historical differences between ancient and modern understanding of slavery.

    • The New Testament references place limits on slavery while not outright condemning it, yet highlights issues like slave trading as sinful.

Joseph's Story

  • Joseph’s Journey:

    • Joseph is favored by Jacob, leading to familial jealousy, betrayal, and eventual rise in Egypt.

    • Key verse explored: "What you intended for evil, God intended for good." (Genesis 50:20).

    • Joseph embodies resilience and faith in God’s plan through his trials.

The Jewish People and Oppression

  • Antisemitism: Historical context of antisemitism throughout biblical history and its persistent nature through time.

  • Enslavement in Egypt: The oppression of the Israelites in Egypt, leading to the emergence of Moses as a deliverer.

Moses’ Role

  • Moses:

    • Chosen by God despite his initial reluctance due to his past.

    • Leads the Israelites through the wilderness, culminating in the conquest of Canaan.

The Conquest of Canaan

  • Divine Command: God commands the Israelites to eradicate certain cultures as a means of judgement against their sins.

  • Moral Quandary: The morality of divine violence and judgement is acknowledged but positioned within the broader context of divine sovereignty.

Final Thoughts and Reflections

  • Milton's Vision of Hope:

    • While the narrative includes suffering and despair, it ultimately points towards hope and restoration through divine providence.

  • Existential Reflection:

    • T.S. Eliot reflects on human existence, exploring the lost Eden and the potential for reunion with God at the end of time.

    • Emphasizes that understanding God’s love necessitates the recognition of human sin and suffering.

Conclusion

  • Key Takeaway: The journey of humanity from Eden to the eventual restoration leads to a deeper understanding and appreciation of God’s grace and love amidst suffering.