Was Milton or Helene worse? This question has sparked debates and controversies for years, as both characters are from classic literature and have been scrutinized for their actions and personalities. Milton, the protagonist of John Milton’s epic poem “Paradise Lost,” and Helene, the protagonist of Alfred de Musset’s novel “The Confession of Felix Krull,” are two vastly different characters, yet they both possess qualities that can be deemed morally questionable. This article aims to analyze the flaws and misdeeds of both characters and determine which one is worse.
Milton, the angel turned fallen angel, is a complex character who has been both admired and criticized for his actions. His rebellion against God and the subsequent fall of man in “Paradise Lost” raises questions about his morality and the consequences of his actions. Milton’s fall from grace is a result of his pride and desire for independence, which ultimately leads to the downfall of humanity. Some argue that Milton’s arrogance and defiance make him a worse character than Helene, as his actions have far-reaching consequences that affect the entire human race.
On the other hand, Helene, the protagonist of “The Confession of Felix Krull,” is a woman who has been involved in numerous love affairs and has a reputation for being unfaithful. Her moral ambiguity and lack of commitment make her a controversial character, and some readers may view her as a worse person than Milton. Helene’s actions are driven by her desire for passion and excitement, which leads her to engage in multiple affairs and deceive her lovers. While her actions are certainly morally questionable, they do not have the same global impact as Milton’s rebellion.
One could argue that Milton’s actions are worse because they have a more significant impact on the world, while Helene’s actions are limited to her personal relationships. However, this perspective overlooks the fact that Helene’s unfaithfulness and moral ambiguity have a profound effect on those around her, including her lovers and her own children. Her inability to commit to one person can be seen as a reflection of her lack of self-worth and her struggle to find true happiness.
In conclusion, determining whether Milton or Helene is worse is a subjective matter, as both characters possess qualities that can be deemed morally questionable. While Milton’s rebellion has a more significant impact on the world, Helene’s actions have a profound effect on her personal relationships. Ultimately, the answer to the question of who is worse may depend on the values and beliefs of the individual reader.
