Michael An archangel, one of the fiercest fighters in the battle between the rebellious angels and those loyal to God. Michael's name was a war cry of the good angels. In Paradise Lost, the fallen angels remember particularly the pain of Michael's sword. At the end of the epic, Michael reveals to Adam the biblical history of the world through the birth of Jesus. Michael also leads Adam and Eve out of Eden.
Raphael One of the archangels. According to tradition Raphael was the angel of Man and was supposed to deal with Earth. Milton seems to follow that tradition since Raphael, often called the "affable archangel," is sent to Earth to warn Adam and to answer any questions Adam has. Many scholars fault Raphael's advice and find him complicit in the Fall of Man. The conversation between Raphael and Adam takes place in Books V — VIII.
Gabriel In the Bible, the archangel Gabriel is the angel of mercy in contrast to Michael, the angel of justice. In the New Testament, Gabriel announces the coming of Jesus to Mary. In Paradise Lost, he is the angel who guards the gate of Eden. He captures Satan on his first attempt at corrupting Adam and Eve and sends him away.
Abdiel Angel in Satan's host who opposes Satan's plan to rebel and returns to God. In the battle with the rebellious angels, Abdiel confronts Satan and pushes him backwards.
Ithuriel One of the angels who assist Gabriel in guarding Eden. Ithuriel and Zephron capture Satan whispering in Eve's ear.
Urania The name of Milton's muse. Classically, Urania is the Muse of Astronomy. Milton transforms her into Christian inspiration or the Holy Spirit.
Uriel One of the seven archangels. He is tricked by Satan disguised as a cherub. He realizes his mistake later and warns Gabriel that an interloper has entered the Garden of Eden.
Zephron One of the angels who assist Gabriel in guarding Eden. Zephron and Ithuriel discover Satan whispering in Eve's ear on his first attempt at corrupting Man.
