Milton's Paradise Lost Book II Response Questions

The devils' debate in Book II further demonstrates the ironic inversion of the reality of Hell. First off, the devils debate on what to do with themselves in regards to Heaven. Some agree with another rebellion against God, others want lassitude, and still others wish to build their own heaven in Hell. This book is filled with debate and arguments supporting different claims, but, much like many political discussions, the end is the same regardless. Because God has sealed the demons fate, no matter what they do, they will meet the same eternal end. The diplomatic language of the devils artificially demonstrate will for peace and democratic voice, but the actions of the demons are the same regardless of their vote. Satan and Beelzebub already have contrived the plan of corrupting man, an action of deception and violence.  The two let a democratic discussion to take place, sitting aside without ears. At the end of the arguments, Beelzebub presents Satan's plan, only fraudulating the entire discussion to have their vote unanimous. Beelzebub presents Satan as a heroic sacrifice when he goes to Earth (a direct inversion of Christ's role).

Mammon argues that war shouldn't be waged, however submission to God is also not an option. He argues that the best option is to work industriously to construct a Hell that is like Heaven. He begins his speech by deconstructing the other two prior arguments. He identifies the flaws in both other plans, noting their difficulty or impossibility. He also claims that those plans mess with Fate and are impossible to contrive in their present condition. Instead, he offers that they make the best of their fate. By constricting their own heaven, the demons have no interaction with the forces of God without submitting to them either. He outlines the ease and ability of his plan, and the peaceful outcome. His argument is quite persuasive: the reasons outlined follow logical structure and they offer a benefit for all demons in Hell. However, as a reader who has a retrospective view, we know that the promises of consequence are impossible in any of the offered plans.