Milton’s Poetic Devices
John Milton was a major influence in poetry and literature during the Age of Enlightenment in the 17th century. Born in 1608 in London, Milton is considered to be one of the greatest English poets. His most famous works include the poems ‘Lycidas’, ‘Paradise Lost’, ‘Paradise Regained’ and ‘Samson Agonistes’. He is credited with pioneering poetic devices such as sonnets, enjambment, and the use of metaphor, simile and alliteration.
Milton’s use of enjambment or the ‘run on’ line in a poem, was something he pioneered and is often seen in modern day poetry. His use of enjambment helps to give his verse a greater rhythm and flow as he breaks the rules of grammar, joining clauses and sentences into one flowing statement. Milton was also a master of the sonnet form, having written around 300 throughout his life.
Alliteration was also a key tool he used to add aural pleasure to his poetry. This occurs when a poet uses a repeated consonant sound in close proximity. One example of this from Lycidas is “Lamenting late and long”. This alliterative phrase emphasises the long ‘L’ sound which adds a sonic element to the poem.
Metaphor and simile are especially important for emphasising the strength of Milton’s poetry. His use of metaphors and similes can bring vivid imagery to life and evoke emotional responses from readers. For instance, in ‘Paradise Lost’ Milton writes “The whispering Zephyr murmurs and motors deep”, creating a comparison between wind and a motor.
Overall, Milton’s influence on English poetry has been immense. He is recognised as the first English poet who understood the power of poetic form and used poetic devices to enhance his texts. Students today still study his work and continue to be inspired by his genius.
Milton’s Influence on Theology
Though John Milton is best known for being a poet, he was also an influential scholar and theologian during the 17th century. As a Calvinist, he believed in predestination and the authority of the Scottish Kirk. Milton argued for strict standards for education and stipulated that students needed to learn Latin, Greek, Hebrew and the Classics in order to be well-rounded.
Milton also engaged in scholarly debates about freedom of speech, the separation of church and state, and religious authority. His views were highly unorthodox and he was openly critical of the Church of England and other Protestants. His views on Calvinism were radical for the time and he was an early advocate for religious toleration.
Milton’s theological writings had a profound impact on the English speaking world. He wrote the influential treatise ‘Of the Reasons of Church Government Urged Against Prelaty’ in 1642, which was a direct attack on the authority of the Church of England. His works were eventually published after his death and went on to become important works of literature that were studied throughout the English-speaking world. Milton was also an advocate of free speech and his works have influenced the debates surrounding censorship and freedom of speech to this day.
Milton’s work has been cited by great thinkers and theologians such as Jonathan Edwards, Samuel Johnson and Martin Luther King Jr. His impact is still felt today in multiple fields. While Milton’s poetry is his primary legacy, the theological debates he sparked in Britain and beyond still shape how we think about religion and politics today.
Milton’s Impact on Literature
John Milton’s influence on literature is well-documented. His most famous works, ‘Paradise Lost’ and ‘Paradise Regained’, continue to be studied and appreciated today. His poems are highly allegorical, drawing on the Bible, Greek mythology, and Roman and English history.
Milton created a new style of writing and storytelling that was more in tune with the fantasy and horror stories of his time. His greatest poem, Paradise Lost, has been said to be the inspiration behind many works of literature, including Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and William Blake’s Songs Of Innocence And Experience. Milton’s use of blank verse—rhyme-less iambic pentameter—also had a huge influence on the English language. His influence on the world of literature as a whole remains unparalleled.
Today, Milton’s work is still studied in classrooms around the world. His writing still offers a great insight into the complexities and nuances of 17th century life and culture. His vision of the world and ability to tell stories through verse has inspired generations of writers and will continue to do so for generations to come.
Milton’s Influence on Art and Culture
John Milton’s work has had a lasting impact on art and culture. His poetry has been adapted into art, theatre and film. Paintings, sculptures, ballets and operas have been created with themes inspired by Milton’s works. For example, in 1667 Dutch artist Ferdinand Bol depicted Satan raging in Hell in his painting The Fall Of The Rebel Angels. The painting was taken directly from Milton’s writings.
Milton’s influence extends beyond the world of art and literature. His works have been celebrated in song, theater and television, and his ideas of freedom and justice can be seen in modern ethics, politics and education. Milton’s legacy is a testament to how ideas and words can have a lasting impact on the world.
Milton and the Philosophy Behind His Poetry
John Milton’s works are often seen as a reflection of the philosophy of the 17th century. In 1657 he wrote ‘Areopagitica: A Speech for the Liberty of Unlicensed Printing to the Parliament of England’ in which he proclaimed the importance of freedom of expression and intellectual freedom. He argued against censorship and suppression of ideas, believing them to be necessary for intellectual development and the betterment of society.
Milton’s influence on the philosophy of literature is considerable. He argued that literature should not only entertain, but also enlighten and educate readers. His works were designed to bring self-reflection and knowledge to readers. He sought to challenge readers on difficult and controversial topics, such as political liberty, religion and morality.
Moreover, through his works students learn about the Restoration period in England, a period in which many of the country’s traditional values were challenged. This philosophical approach to literature is one that is still seen in modern day poetry, novels and plays.
Milton’s Legacy
John Milton is remembered as one of the greatest English poets of all time. His works are still studied and admired in classrooms around the word. He helped to shaped the English language with his poetic devices and his influence on literature, art, culture and philosophy is undeniable. As a theologian he was highly influential and his beliefs are still relevant today. Milton’s legacy is sure to last for generations to come.
