In Books 8 and 9, Milton discusses the relationship of Adam and Eve in detail. In Book 8, Christ explains his rational for creating woman since "the brute cannot be the human consort. They rejoice each with their own kind" (lines 391-393). According to Milton, men and women were designed to be companions to one another. I couldn't help but remember this play by Edward Albee about Martin and Sylvia… Even after five centuries and a sexual revolution, bestiality remains a forbidden topic. I've digressed: moving back to the text, this part of Milton's work seems to be without controversy. At times, Adam and Eve seem to be placed as equals in the garden. Eve was "worthy well [Adam's] cherishing, [his] honoring, and [his] love, not [his] subjection" (book 8, lines 586-570). Adam is not to rule over Eve, but to be her life partner. But I don't see Adam and Eve as equals. Eve's plan to work solo is quickly shot down by Adam; Adam doesn't think her strong enough to withstand temptation. Perhaps in Milton's mind, she wasn't strong since Satan's "guile into her heart too easy access won" (book 9, 733-734). Her actions are "rash" (book 9, line 780). I'm intrigued by the reference to Samson and Delilah. I've always thought Samson a fool to be tricked by the wily woman, but I don't see Eve as that crafty, cunning woman.
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