John Milton: Life and Works

John Milton, born in 1608 in London, was a renowned English poet and intellectual whose works profoundly influenced literature and political thought. His most famous work, "Paradise Lost", is considered one of the greatest epics in English literature.

Milton's life was marked by significant political and personal events that shaped his writing:

• Born into a wealthy Puritan family, Milton received an excellent education, studying at Cambridge University.
• Between 1631 and 1637, he published various poems, establishing his reputation as a talented writer.
• In 1638, Milton embarked on a European tour, during which he met Galileo near Florence, an encounter that likely influenced his cosmic vision in "Paradise Lost".

Highlight: Milton's meeting with Galileo near Florence demonstrates the intersection of literary and scientific thought in his work.

Upon returning to England, Milton became deeply involved in politics:

• He supported Oliver Cromwell and the Parliamentarian cause during the English Civil War.
• In 1642, he married Mary Powell, the daughter of a Royalist, which led to personal conflicts and inspired his writings on divorce.

Quote: "I call therefore a complete and generous education that which fits a man to perform justly, skillfully, and magnanimously all the offices, both private and public, of peace and war." - John Milton

Milton's political views and personal experiences influenced his literary works:

• He wrote "Doctrine and Discipline of Divorce" (1643) and "Areopagitica" (1644), advocating for civil liberties and freedom of the press.
• In 1649, he became Secretary for Foreign Languages in Cromwell's Council, showcasing his linguistic abilities in Latin, Greek, and Italian.

Vocabulary: Puritan - A member of a Protestant group in England and New England in the 16th and 17th centuries who sought to simplify and regulate forms of worship.

Milton's later years were marked by personal hardship and literary triumph:

• He became blind in 1652 but continued to write with the help of assistants.
• The restoration of the monarchy in 1660 led to the burning of his Puritan works and a brief imprisonment.
• Despite these setbacks, Milton produced his greatest works during this period:
  • "Paradise Lost" (1667)
  • "Paradise Regained" (1671)
  • "Samson Agonistes" (1671)

Example: "Paradise Lost" exemplifies Milton's mastery of blank verse and his profound exploration of biblical themes.

Milton's universe in "Paradise Lost" reflects both traditional and contemporary cosmological views:

• The poem's structure is based on the Ptolemaic system, with Earth at the center surrounded by celestial spheres.
• God sits on his throne in Heaven, surrounded by nine orders of angels.
• The tenth order, led by Satan, rebelled and was transformed into Hell.

Definition: Ptolemaic system - An Earth-centered model of the universe developed by ancient Greek astronomers.

Milton's legacy extends beyond literature, influencing political and philosophical thought:

• His works on civil liberties and freedom of expression continue to resonate in modern discussions of human rights.
• The character of Satan in "Paradise Lost" has become an archetype for the complex, charismatic antihero in literature.

Highlight: The phrase "meglio regnare all'inferno che servire in paradiso" (better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven) encapsulates the defiant spirit of Milton's Satan.

John Milton's life and works embody the turbulent spirit of 17th-century England, blending religious conviction, political engagement, and poetic genius to create a lasting impact on English literature and thought.