Bungacast
/478/ Should You Listen to Satan? ft. Orlando Reade
Apr 1, 2025
Orlando Reade, a Professor of English at Northeastern University London and author of 'What In Me Is Dark,' dives into the revolutionary themes of Milton's 'Paradise Lost.' He explores whether the poem speaks of darkness and its relevance today, especially regarding the age of Trump. The discussion also highlights how figures like Malcolm X interpreted Milton's insights on freedom and rebellion. Reade challenges listeners to consider the moral complexities of disobedience as embodied by Satan and Eve, linking epic poetry to modern political discourse.
54:56
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Quick takeaways
- Orlando Reade illustrates how Milton's portrayal of darkness in 'Paradise Lost' invites readers to confront their inner struggles and moral complexities.
- The podcast discusses how Milton's notion of freedom challenges contemporary views, emphasizing that true liberty involves acknowledging moral law and authority.
Deep dives
The Influence of Satan's Darkness
The title of Orlando Reid’s book, inspired by Milton's 'Paradise Lost,' explores the notion of darkness as a crucial aspect of human experience. The phrase 'What in me is dark, illumine' reflects the poem's complex engagement with themes of evil and ambiguity, urging readers to confront inner darkness. This darkness, depicted through Satan's character, serves as a vehicle for exploring profound moral questions and the allure of rebellion. Reid argues that it is precisely this interplay of light and dark that has rendered Milton's work influential across centuries.
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