Take a few lines from paradise lost that weren’t explored in the lesson. rewrite these lines in more modern or straightforward language. then reflect briefly in one paragraph what was lost or gained from the translation.

The Earth was formed, but in the womb as yet
Of waters, embryon immature involved,
Appeared not: over all the face of Earth
Main ocean flowed, not idle; but, with warm
Prolific humor softening all her globe

The Earth was formed, but was still underwater, like an embryo that has not yet developed and has not yet appeared. All over the face of the Earth the ocean flowed. It wasn't stagnant or motionless, but flowed with warm currents, softening the entire globe.

Translating it to common English helps to better understand its meaning, but the poetic nature is lost. Metaphors and other literary devices also lose much of their effectiveness.