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29 Jun 2025

6 pages

AQA A-Level English Lit: Compare 'Paradise Lost' & '1984' FULL MARKS Essay

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eleanor <3

@eleanorflovver

A comprehensive analysis of rebellion themes in Milton's Paradise Lost... Show more

Compare and contrast the ways in which Orwell and
Milton explore the concept of rebellion as a 'championing
of human courage and emotion ove

Contrasting Views on Free Will and Authority

This section examines the differing presentations of authority in "Paradise Lost" and "1984", highlighting Milton's more nuanced approach compared to Orwell's overwhelmingly negative portrayal.

In "1984", the Party actively suppresses free speech and individual thought through constant surveillance via "telescreens" and the development of "Newspeak" to limit language. In contrast, Milton's God explicitly advocates for human free will, even while recognizing its potential for destruction.

Quote: "They trespass, authors to themselves and all... I form'd them free: and free they must remain" - God in Paradise Lost

This fundamental difference in the nature of authority between the two works shapes how rebellion is perceived and portrayed. In "1984", rebellion is a desperate act against totalitarian control, while in "Paradise Lost" it becomes a more complex moral choice.

Definition: Newspeak - The controlled language created by the totalitarian state in "1984" to limit freedom of thought

Highlight: The contrast between God's allowance of free will in Paradise Lost and the Party's active suppression of individual thought in 1984 demonstrates different approaches to authority and rebellion in the two texts.

Compare and contrast the ways in which Orwell and
Milton explore the concept of rebellion as a 'championing
of human courage and emotion ove

Paradise and Perception

This section delves into how both authors conceptualize paradise and authority, particularly relevant for AQA A Level History essay analysis. The text explores how paradise represents a state of ignorance rather than actual perfection.

Quote: "The mind is its own place, and can in itself make a hell of heaven and a heaven of hell."

Highlight: Paradise is portrayed as a state of ignorance rather than actual perfection, challenging traditional interpretations.

Definition: Social conditioning is presented as a key factor in how authority is perceived and challenged.

Compare and contrast the ways in which Orwell and
Milton explore the concept of rebellion as a 'championing
of human courage and emotion ove

Emotional Resistance

The third section examines how emotional suppression drives rebellion, particularly relevant for Aqa a level english literature comparing paradise lost and 1984 essay topics.

Quote: "The truly characteristic thing about modern life was not its cruelty and insecurity, but simply its bareness, its dinginess, its listlessness."

Vocabulary: Listlessness - a state of lethargy or lack of enthusiasm

Highlight: The suppression of emotion, rather than just free will, is presented as a primary catalyst for rebellion.

Compare and contrast the ways in which Orwell and
Milton explore the concept of rebellion as a 'championing
of human courage and emotion ove

Love and Mortality

This section analyzes the role of love and mortality in both texts' rebellion narratives, essential for How to write a thematic essay A Level History.

Quote: "Not deceived, but fondly overcome with female charm"

Example: Adam's choice between Eve and Paradise parallels Winston and Julia's forbidden relationship.

Highlight: Love is presented as a form of rebellion against authoritarian control.

Compare and contrast the ways in which Orwell and
Milton explore the concept of rebellion as a 'championing
of human courage and emotion ove

Moral Choices and Evil

The fifth section explores the moral dimensions of rebellion and evil, particularly relevant for Paradise Lost Social Context analysis.

Definition: True evil is presented as a conscious choice rather than blind obedience.

Highlight: Both texts suggest that the choice to remain ignorant is itself a rejection of humanity.

Example: Satan's non-human nature in Paradise Lost contrasts with O'Brien's human evil in 1984.

Compare and contrast the ways in which Orwell and
Milton explore the concept of rebellion as a 'championing
of human courage and emotion ove

Comparing Authority Figures in Paradise Lost and 1984

This section analyzes the portrayal of authority in John Milton's "Paradise Lost" and George Orwell's "1984", drawing intriguing parallels between God and Big Brother as all-powerful figures.

While seemingly different on the surface, both authority figures play similar roles in their respective narratives. Big Brother is described as "infallible and all-powerful" yet lacks any physical presence in the story. Similarly, Milton depicts God as omniscient and omnipotent, though in a more benevolent light given the religious context of the 17th century.

Orwell uses religious imagery and language when describing Big Brother and the Party's doctrines, suggesting Big Brother functions as a god-like figure for the characters. This raises questions about the nature of paradise and authority - is ignorant bliss preferable to painful awareness?

The text explores how perceptions of authority are shaped by social conditioning. Rebellion thus becomes an act of reclaiming autonomy and humanity in the face of oppressive power structures.

Quote: "The mind is its own place, and can in itself make a hell of heaven and a heaven of hell." - John Milton, Paradise Lost

Highlight: Both texts present the idea of "paradise" as a state of ignorance rather than true perfection. Tragedy arises from becoming aware of the restrictive nature of authority.

Vocabulary: Omniscient - All-knowing; having complete or unlimited knowledge and awareness

Example: The use of religious imagery for Big Brother, such as naming characters after priests theParsonsfamilythe Parsons family and instituting rituals like the "Two Minutes Hate"



We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

English Literature

996

29 Jun 2025

6 pages

AQA A-Level English Lit: Compare 'Paradise Lost' & '1984' FULL MARKS Essay

user profile picture

eleanor <3

@eleanorflovver

A comprehensive analysis of rebellion themes in Milton's Paradise Lost and Orwell's 1984, exploring how both texts examine human courage and emotional resistance against authoritarian control. The works demonstrate striking parallels in their exploration of human nature, free will, and... Show more

Compare and contrast the ways in which Orwell and
Milton explore the concept of rebellion as a 'championing
of human courage and emotion ove

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Contrasting Views on Free Will and Authority

This section examines the differing presentations of authority in "Paradise Lost" and "1984", highlighting Milton's more nuanced approach compared to Orwell's overwhelmingly negative portrayal.

In "1984", the Party actively suppresses free speech and individual thought through constant surveillance via "telescreens" and the development of "Newspeak" to limit language. In contrast, Milton's God explicitly advocates for human free will, even while recognizing its potential for destruction.

Quote: "They trespass, authors to themselves and all... I form'd them free: and free they must remain" - God in Paradise Lost

This fundamental difference in the nature of authority between the two works shapes how rebellion is perceived and portrayed. In "1984", rebellion is a desperate act against totalitarian control, while in "Paradise Lost" it becomes a more complex moral choice.

Definition: Newspeak - The controlled language created by the totalitarian state in "1984" to limit freedom of thought

Highlight: The contrast between God's allowance of free will in Paradise Lost and the Party's active suppression of individual thought in 1984 demonstrates different approaches to authority and rebellion in the two texts.

Compare and contrast the ways in which Orwell and
Milton explore the concept of rebellion as a 'championing
of human courage and emotion ove

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Paradise and Perception

This section delves into how both authors conceptualize paradise and authority, particularly relevant for AQA A Level History essay analysis. The text explores how paradise represents a state of ignorance rather than actual perfection.

Quote: "The mind is its own place, and can in itself make a hell of heaven and a heaven of hell."

Highlight: Paradise is portrayed as a state of ignorance rather than actual perfection, challenging traditional interpretations.

Definition: Social conditioning is presented as a key factor in how authority is perceived and challenged.

Compare and contrast the ways in which Orwell and
Milton explore the concept of rebellion as a 'championing
of human courage and emotion ove

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Emotional Resistance

The third section examines how emotional suppression drives rebellion, particularly relevant for Aqa a level english literature comparing paradise lost and 1984 essay topics.

Quote: "The truly characteristic thing about modern life was not its cruelty and insecurity, but simply its bareness, its dinginess, its listlessness."

Vocabulary: Listlessness - a state of lethargy or lack of enthusiasm

Highlight: The suppression of emotion, rather than just free will, is presented as a primary catalyst for rebellion.

Compare and contrast the ways in which Orwell and
Milton explore the concept of rebellion as a 'championing
of human courage and emotion ove

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Love and Mortality

This section analyzes the role of love and mortality in both texts' rebellion narratives, essential for How to write a thematic essay A Level History.

Quote: "Not deceived, but fondly overcome with female charm"

Example: Adam's choice between Eve and Paradise parallels Winston and Julia's forbidden relationship.

Highlight: Love is presented as a form of rebellion against authoritarian control.

Compare and contrast the ways in which Orwell and
Milton explore the concept of rebellion as a 'championing
of human courage and emotion ove

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Moral Choices and Evil

The fifth section explores the moral dimensions of rebellion and evil, particularly relevant for Paradise Lost Social Context analysis.

Definition: True evil is presented as a conscious choice rather than blind obedience.

Highlight: Both texts suggest that the choice to remain ignorant is itself a rejection of humanity.

Example: Satan's non-human nature in Paradise Lost contrasts with O'Brien's human evil in 1984.

Compare and contrast the ways in which Orwell and
Milton explore the concept of rebellion as a 'championing
of human courage and emotion ove

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Comparing Authority Figures in Paradise Lost and 1984

This section analyzes the portrayal of authority in John Milton's "Paradise Lost" and George Orwell's "1984", drawing intriguing parallels between God and Big Brother as all-powerful figures.

While seemingly different on the surface, both authority figures play similar roles in their respective narratives. Big Brother is described as "infallible and all-powerful" yet lacks any physical presence in the story. Similarly, Milton depicts God as omniscient and omnipotent, though in a more benevolent light given the religious context of the 17th century.

Orwell uses religious imagery and language when describing Big Brother and the Party's doctrines, suggesting Big Brother functions as a god-like figure for the characters. This raises questions about the nature of paradise and authority - is ignorant bliss preferable to painful awareness?

The text explores how perceptions of authority are shaped by social conditioning. Rebellion thus becomes an act of reclaiming autonomy and humanity in the face of oppressive power structures.

Quote: "The mind is its own place, and can in itself make a hell of heaven and a heaven of hell." - John Milton, Paradise Lost

Highlight: Both texts present the idea of "paradise" as a state of ignorance rather than true perfection. Tragedy arises from becoming aware of the restrictive nature of authority.

Vocabulary: Omniscient - All-knowing; having complete or unlimited knowledge and awareness

Example: The use of religious imagery for Big Brother, such as naming characters after priests theParsonsfamilythe Parsons family and instituting rituals like the "Two Minutes Hate"

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user