Satan transforms himself into many creatures throughout this poem, starting with a large winged creature, then a cherub, then a bird, then to a toad, and finally a snake. What does this pattern of transformations say about Satan’s character as we get further into the poem? ( MEG 101 ) ( PARADISE LOST- BOOK 1 )

The pattern of transformations that Satan undergoes in John Milton's epic poem "Paradise Lost" reflects his gradual descent from a powerful, majestic figure to a more humble, degraded one. At the beginning of the poem, Satan is portrayed as a proud and rebellious archangel who leads a revolt against God and is subsequently cast out of Heaven. In his initial transformation into a large winged creature, Satan still retains some of his former glory and power, but as he continues to descend, he takes on increasingly lowly forms.

As Satan transforms into a cherub, then a bird, then a toad, and finally a snake, he becomes more and more grotesque and pitiable. This progression reflects his moral and spiritual decline as he becomes more consumed by his own pride and hatred. The fact that Satan is willing to transform into such lowly forms suggests that he is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goal of corrupting humanity and proving his own power and superiority.

Overall, the pattern of transformations in "Paradise Lost" serves to emphasize the tragic nature of Satan's character. Despite his initial rebellion against God and his belief that he can succeed on his own terms, Satan ultimately becomes a figure of pity and despair, reduced to crawling on his belly like a snake and contemplating his own miserable fate.