In his epic, Paradise Lost, John Milton explores the concept of labor and it's connection with obedience. While the word "labor" often express work of any kind, true labor involves tiresome, physical exertion and seems to suggest a bodily burden and trying task. When a job appears enjoyable, such work does not constitute real labor, but instead often represents a reward for obedience. Through the juxtaposition of a relaxed, content life with one filled with burdensome and physical exertion, Milton emphasizes the importance of obedience and illustrates how disobedience results in bodily punishment.

Because God has created mankind, giving them free will and reason, He wants Adam and Eve to obey his single, simple command expecting that they will follow his order out of love and respect for their creator. Adam warns Eve not to eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil stating that it...