Title: Satanic Argumentation in Paradise Lost and the Casuistical Tradition in English Renaissance

Abstract: Satanic Argumentation, an essential component of Miltonic Grand Style in Paradise Lost, is mainly manifested in the argumentative lines and stanzas that Milton designs not only for Satan, but also for other epic characters like Eve who imitates Satan after being tempted and influenced by Satan. Typical characteristics of Satanic Argumentation include the crooked thinking mode, elaborate use of compound words, complex sentences, imperative sentences, and parallel patterns as well as exaggerated body language of acting which goes with speech. The article selects two exemplary episodes about Satan and Eve from Paradise Lost, aiming to analyze Satanic Argumentation, hence perceiving Milton’s inheritance of the Casuistical Tradition in English Renaissance, and helping readers better grasp the essence of Satanic Argumentation and the artistry of Miltonic Grand Style.

Keywords: Paradise Lost, Satanic Argumentation, English Renaissance, casuistical tradition, Miltonic Grand Style

Author: Ming Yi, Ph.D. Candidate and Lecturer, School of Foreign Languages, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Lingying Wu, Professor, School of Foreign Languages, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.