UNCOVERING LIGHT AND DARKNESS IN JOHN MILTON'S "PARADISE LOST" THROUGH RICOEUR’S THEORY OF INTERPRETATION (original) (raw)

2023, ASES V. INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON SOCIAL SCIENCES CONFERENCE BOOK

John Milton’s Paradise Lost is an epic poem that draws on a range of disciplines, including theology, philosophy, and literature. The poem explores the question of Light, which is central to its plot and themes. Through an analysis of Ricoeur’s theory of interpretation, this research reveals how Ricoeur’s hermeneutic perspective penetrates the poem and provides a deeper understanding of Milton’s representation of Light and Darkness. Ricoeur’s theory of interpretation suggests that the meaning of a text is not fixed or predetermined, but rather emerges through a dynamic process of dialogue between the reader and the text. This approach is particularly relevant to Paradise Lost, which is a complex and multi-layered work that invites multiple readings and interpretations. By applying Ricoeur’s theory to the poem, this research demonstrates how the mystery of Light is delineated from the beginning to the end of the epic, and how Milton’s representation of Light and Darkness creates an indispensable link to Ricoeur’s hermeneutic perspective. One of the key aspects of this link is the question of divine and human agency in the poem. Milton’s representation of Light and Darkness is closely tied to his theological views, which emphasize the role of free will in human affairs. By exploring this theme through the lens of Ricoeur’s theory of interpretation, this research sheds new light on the poem’s portrayal of the struggle between good and evil, and the role of human agency in this conflict. Moreover, the research argues that Milton’s use of Light and Darkness is not simply a matter of theological symbolism, but also reflects his literary artistry. In the 17th century, the interpretation of light and darkness pertains to Ricoeur’s hermeneutic perception by demonstrating how Milton transforms the use of the words in the poem. Milton’s manipulation of light and dark imagery is an essential part of his poetic vision and contributes to the richness and complexity of the poem. By applying Ricoeur’s theory of interpretation to the poem, the research provides a deeper understanding of the mystery of Light and Darkness and sheds new light on the role of human agency in the poem’s portrayal of the struggle between good and evil. Ultimately, this research highlights the enduring relevance of Milton’s epic poem, and its capacity to inspire new insights and interpretations across a range of disciplines.