Book 6 Summary

Raphael continues the story of Satan's rebellion. Abdiel leaves Satan's followers and arrives at the Mount of God. He is received with joy by the heavenly host, and praised by God for his faithfulness. Abdiel has withstood Satan's reproach and derision, which is more difficult to bear than violence. Abdiel can now join with God's army to fight the rebels.

Michael and Gabriel are sent to lead an army, which will be equal in size to the armies led by Satan. Satan and his followers are to be driven out of Heaven. The trumpet of wrath sounds, and God's army flies out to meet with Satan's army, which approaches from the North in hopes of winning the Mount of God.

Abdiel addresses Satan, reproaching him for his pride and folly. Satan argues that he is fighting for freedom from servility to which Abdiel...