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Overview
John Milton (16081674) is often regarded as one of England’s greatest poets, second only to Shakespeare. Best known for his magnum opus Paradise Lost, Milton was also one of history’s most politically active writers. A radical Protestant and staunch republican, he served as Latin secretary to Oliver Cromwell during the Commonwealth and throughout his life wrote eloquent treatises on topics including divorce, freedom of the press, kingship, and education. This extensive look at Milton’s life and ethos addresses the psychological complexities and political tenets of the man who dared to put words in God’s mouth, and whose life was spared following the restoration of the monarchy due only to his reputation as a poet.
Synopsis
John Milton (1608–1674) is often regarded as one of England’s greatest poets, second only to Shakespeare. Best known for his magnum opus Paradise Lost, Milton was also one of history’s most politically active writers. A radical Protestant and staunch republican, he served as Latin secretary to Oliver Cromwell during the Commonwealth and throughout his life wrote eloquent treatises on topics including divorce, freedom of the press, kingship, and education. This extensive look at Milton’s life and ethos addresses the psychological complexities and political tenets of the man who dared to put words in God’s mouth, and whose life was spared following the restoration of the monarchy due only to his reputation as a poet.
Library Journal
At first, such a slim biography on a monumental figure like Milton might be prejudged superficial. However, Forsyth, who received the 2004 James Holly Hanford Prize from the Milton Society of America for The Satanic Epic, creates a complete picture of his subject that gives readers a sense of the man and his times. He blends into the biographical data Milton's literary achievements, so where he was in his development can be appreciated. In addition, Forsyth offers a good amount of social/political/religious information of 17th-century England, which allows an even fuller understanding of Milton's world. The audience for this work should be familiar with Milton's body of literature as well as some English history. This is not an easy read, but the light tone helps make the work accessible. VERDICT Forsyth's engrossing and informative book is essential for anyone following classic English literature.—Paolina Taglienti, Everest Coll., Henderson, NV