The main idea of the poem is a rebellion against God’s authority. In the poem, God is just a selfish dictator, sitting high on a throne, surrounded by a chorus of stupid angels who always sing his praises. Satan, though defeated, still sought revenge, is the most impressive character in the poem. Though he is inferior to God in force, he remains superior in nobility, since he prefers independence to happy servility. Satan represents the spirit of challenging the authority of God. Adam and Eve embody Milton’s belief in the powers of man. Their desire for knowledge makes their character more important.