ENGLISH LITERATURE (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -An epic or descriptive simile is one in which the image or ‘ikon’ is not just referred to, but elaborated, perhaps forming a complete scene or incident itself. In proportion to their length, the books of Paradise Lost with most epic similes are I, IV, and IX. Book VIII has none, Books III, VII and X-XII very few.

Detailed explanation-2: -The first epic Simile employed by Milton in Book 1 is the comparison of Satan’s huge size with that Sea beast Leviathan, which was created so big that swim across the ocean stream. Next the physical dimension of Satan are emphasized with reference to various other epic Similes.

Detailed explanation-3: -Adam, rising from his slumber after his lustful dalliance with Eve and suddenly plunged into a sense of overpowering shame at his own folly, is compared in an effective Homeric simile to that “Danite strong, Herculean Samson” rising from the “harlot-lap of Philistine Delilah, ” shorn of his strength.

Detailed explanation-4: -The Murmur of Applause is compared to Natural Sound The first simile occurs in “Paradise Lost” Book II is the one at the end of Mammon’s speech. Fallen angels gave applause to Mammon’s speech. This murmur of applause is compared to the sound of raging winds which has subsided.

Detailed explanation-5: -Epic simile is, in simple words, an elaborate comparison that travels beyond the point of comparison and gives a complete poetic picture of some scene or incident suggested to the mind of the poet. They are used for illustration and ornamentation.