Creature in whom excelled, 9:897

It is important to note that at the beginning of this phrase Milton is careful to change the meter in order to stress the word creature.  In the OED, creature is defined as a being of anomalous or uncertain aspect of nature.  This is probabally why Milton stresses this word.  He wants to reinforce that she is not longer like Adam after committing her sin.  She is a different type of creature.  Adam goes on to tell Eve, “in whom excelled” as a compliment.  He wants her to know that he is not mad at her, and thinks she is very important.  He feels that she excels in certain aspects. 

Brooks Winchell