consulted by other eyes, is not easy, nor possible, but with more
skilful and attentive help than can be commonly obtained; and it was
probably the difficulty of consulting and comparing that stopped
Milton's narrative at the Conquest--a period at which affairs were
not very intricate, nor authors very numerous.

For the subject of his epic poem, after much deliberation, long
choosing, and beginning late, he fixed upon "Paradise Lost," a
design so comprehensive, that it could be justified only by success.
He had once designed to celebrate King Arthur, as he hints in his
verses to Mansus; but "Arthur was reserved," says Fenton, "to
another destiny."

It appears, by some sketches of poetical projects left in
manuscript, and to be seen in a library at Cambridge, that he had
digested his thoughts on this subject into one of those wild dramas
which were anciently called Mysteries; and Philips had seen what he
terms part of a tragedy, beginning with the first ten lines of
Satan's address to the Sun. These mysteries consist of allegorical
persons, such as Justice, Mercy, Faith. Of the tragedy or mystery
of "Paradise Lost" there are two plans


The Persons. The Persons.
Michael. Moses.
Chorus of Angels. Divine Justice, Wisdom
Heavenly Love. Heavenly Love.
Lucifer. The Evening Star, Hesperus.
Adam, } with the Serpent Chorus of Angels.
Eve, } Lucifer.