In John Milton’s Paradise Lost, Eve’s role in the downfall of mankind is a complex subject that intertwines themes of free will, temptation, and patriarchal constructs. Milton presents Eve as a pivotal character in the narrative of humanity’s fall from grace, primarily through her decision to eat the forbidden fruit and persuade Adam to do the same. This act of disobedience is traditionally viewed as the cause of mankind’s downfall.

However, analyzing Eve’s portrayal reveals underlying patriarchal elements. Milton’s depiction of Eve reflects 17th-century attitudes toward women, emphasizing her curiosity, susceptibility to flattery, and perceived inferiority to Adam. These traits suggest that Eve’s transgression can be seen as a medium through which patriarchal ideas are reinforced. The narrative implies that Eve’s secondary creation and her subsequent fall justify male dominance and female subservience.

Thus, while Eve’s actions directly lead to the fall, Milton’s work can also be interpreted as a reflection of patriarchal ideology. The epic suggests that Eve’s role in the downfall is not merely a personal failing but a device to underscore and perpetuate existing gender hierarchies. Consequently, Eve’s portrayal serves both as a catalyst for the fall and as a means for patriarchy to assert itself.