Satan is no hero in Paradise LostThere have been many different interpretations of John Milton's epic Paradise Lost. Milton's purpose in writing this epic was to explain the biblical story of Adam and Eve. Although the epic resembles the biblical story in many ways, Milton's character structure differs from that of the biblical version. Throughout the epic, Milton describes the characters as he believes them to be. In Book II of Paradise Lost, Milton portrays Satan as a rebel who exhibits some heroic qualities, but who turns out to be no hero. Milton's introduction of Satan shows the reader how important Satan is to Paradise Lost. He uses Satan's heroic qualities towards his followers and his ability to corrupt to show the thin line between good and evil. Satan was one of the highest angels in heaven and was known as Lucifer, meaning bringer of light. This shows that he was once a good angel. Milton makes the reader see him as a leader and a strong influence on everyone in his presence. He best describes Satan's ways when he says: "His pride / had driven him out of heaven, with all his army." / Rebel angels, by whom aspired / To place themselves in glory above their peers” (Milton Book I). Satan's pride was the main reason God banished him from heaven. Satan has always tried to be number one and a leader, instead of following the shadow of God. He would have lived a life in Heaven forever, but he had to follow his feelings as he states, “It is better to reign in hell than to serve in heaven” (Milton 31). This shows how much he thought he was not above everyone. Milton uses many events like those listed above to encourage the reader to view Satan as a hero. “Satan is described as the brightest and most important angel” (McColley 32). These traits of Satan show how Satan can be recognized as second in power just below God, who was the highest power of all. Before Satan decided to abandon what he had and rebel against God, he was one of the wisest and most beautiful angels in heaven (McColley 24). Even though Satan was handsome, the most important trait that classifies him as a hero is that he was the most powerful angel in heaven..