Paradise Lost

By: John Milton

Narrated by: Frances Barber, full cast, Ian McKellen

Sir Ian McKellen stars as Milton in this dramatised retelling of John Milton's epic poem about the fall of man.

Milton's biblical masterpiece, first published in 1667, is one of English literature's most seminal works. Straddling three worlds - heaven, hell and earth - it tells the gripping story of fallen angel Satan's rebellion against God, his temptation of Adam and Eve and their subsequent expulsion from the Garden of Eden.

Written to 'justify the ways of God to men', it aimed to show what caused mankind's fall and the consequences for the world, both bad and good. By reaching back to the beginning of time, Milton hoped to discover the events that had led to the political and societal upheaval of his own era - as well as using allegory to ask powerful questions about authority, government, tyranny and disobedience. In this brand-new dramatisation, Milton himself (Sir Ian McKellen) is the blind narrator grieving the loss of his wife, played by Frances Barber.

Also starring Simon Russell Beale as Satan, and adapted by award-winning poet and broadcaster Michael Symmons Roberts, this enthralling drama is a vital piece of storytelling with striking parallels to contemporary events.

Cast and credits:

Milton........................Sir Ian McKellen

Elizabeth........................Frances Barber

Satan........................Simon Russell Beale

Beelzebub........................Jonathan Keeble

Adam........................Ashley Margolis

Eve........................Emily Pithon

Christ........................David Seddon

Raphael........................Conrad Nelson

God........................Russell Dixon

All other parts were played by members of the company.

Written by John Milton. Dramatised by Michael Symmons Roberts. Produced and directed by Susan Roberts.

©2018 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2018 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Critic reviews

"Devilishly good...I urge you to give it a listen." (The Telegraph)

great

love it well not a dull moment bit was superb very very very very good

Paradise Lost is a story you must read!!

From start to finish this epic and I mean epic poem grabs you up and take you on a journey unlike no other. If you have not read this book yet I highly recommend it for those who enjoy captivating books. This book will go on your list of favorite read I promise you!

Great quality

The voice actors were amazing and the sound effects were great. BBC has out done themselves.

A literary masterpiece brought to life

As a pastor, I take issue with some of Milton's theology, but that's beside the point. This poem is a work of genius and the actors perform their roles magnificently! Whether as an act of religious devotion, intellectual curiosity, historical study, or literary appreciation, do yourself a favor and listen to this spectacular drama.

Milton’s poetry

Absolutely brilliant. Beautifully written and beautifully performed. A must listen for all lovers of Milton.