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What is the central story told in Paradise Lost?

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Engraved portrait of John Milton by Jacob Houbraken, showing Milton with shoulder-length hair, a lace collar, and period clothing, facing forward in an oval frame. — John Milton John Milton, engraving by Jacob Houbraken, 1741.

Paradise Lost, the celebrated epic poem by John Milton, centers on the biblical narrative of the fall from grace of Adam and Eve and, by extension, all of humanity.1

The poem explores the consequences of disobedience, specifically detailing how Satan—having been expelled from heaven following a failed rebellion—seeks to corrupt humanity by inducing in Eve the same inordinate pride that led to his own downfall.12

Beyond the fall, the work serves as a profound exploration of the clash between Satan and the Son (Jesus Christ). While Satan embodies a form of prideful, classical heroism, Milton uses the poem to contrast this with Christian heroism, exemplified by the Son’s selfless love and willingness to suffer for the redemption of humankind. Ultimately, the narrative aims to fulfill the poem's "great argument": to justify the ways of God to man, offering hope for regeneration and salvation through the Son's future sacrifice.2