Question

Which three lines or sets of lines in this excerpt from John Milton's Paradise Lost reflect Satan's apparent regret that he can never experience love?

Imparadis't in one anothers arms
The happier Eden, shall enjoy their fill
Of bliss on bliss, while I to Hell am thrust,
Where neither joy nor love, but fierce desire,
Among our other torments not the least,
Still unfulfill'd with pain of longing pines;
Yet let me not forget what I have gain'd
From their own mouths; all is not theirs it seems:
One fatal Tree there stands of Knowledge call'd,
Forbidden them to taste: Knowledge forbidd'n?
Suspicious, reasonless. Why should their Lord
Envie them that? can it be sin to know,

Answer 1

Of bliss on bliss, while I to Hell am thrust,

Where neither joy nor love, but fierce desire,

Among our other torments not the least,

Step-by-step explanation:

John Milton's epic poem "Paradise Lost" is written in free verse, concerning the fall of man from the garden of Eden. It is based on the Biblical story of Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden, and the eventual deception by Satan.

The given excerpt in the question is from Book IV of the poem, where Satan seems to be rejoicing in his successful effort of deceiving Adam and Eve. But then again, he also felt sad about not being able to experience the love that Adam and Eve had. The three lines-

Of bliss on bliss, while I to Hell am thrust,

Where neither joy nor love, but fierce desire,

Among our other torments not the least,

shows his regret in not being able to feel the feeling of love. Though Adam and Eve were banned from the garden, they were still content with themselves for they have each other to depend on. This feeling of love that they felt is what Satan envies, thus exclaiming his regret over it.

Answer 2

" while I to Hell am thrust",

" Where neither joy nor love, but fierce desire,"

"Still unfulfill'd with pain of longing pines;"

. He is thrust to Hell, with fierce desire unfulfilled, and torments and pain, while Eden is filled with abundant and perfect happiness.