PARADISE Lost, the name of a modern epic poem, the first and finest of those composed by Milton.

The subject of this poem is extraordinary; it had never before been attempted, and seemed to be above the efforts of human genius. Angels and devils are not the machinery, but the principal actors in it; so that what would appear marvellous in any other composition, is in this only the natural course of events.—The poet's intention was, as he expresses it himself, to vindicate the ways of God to men. How far Milton was happy in the choice of his subject, may be questioned. It has led him into difficult ground, though it certainly suited the daring sublimity of his genius. It is a subject for which he alone was fitted; and, in the conduct of it, he has shewn a stretch both of imagination and invention which is perfectly wonderful.

Bird of PARADISE. See the following article.