John Milton was an English poet, writer, and civil servant from the 17th century. He wrote during a time of civil war, religious turmoil, and political upheaval. He is most famous for his work, “Paradise Lost.”
John Milton was born in London in 1608, the son of a prosperous composer. After private tutoring as a young boy, he attended St. Paul’s School, where he learned Latin and Greek. He was dedicated to his studies earned both his Bachelors and Masters degrees at Christ’s College, Cambridge.
Milton began writing about the political conflicts taking place at the time, producing several eloquent treatises. Even though he was supported by his wealthy father, he began privately tutoring children of the well-to-do.
In 1642, Milton married a 16-year-old woman, Mary Powell, who left him weeks after marriage. He wrote a series of pamphlets arguing for divorce. The idea at the time was very controversial and caused scathing criticism. Milton’s wife returned to him in 1645.
In 1649, Milton’s reputation as a writer secured him a position as Secretary of Foreign Tongues, where he continued to compose political opinions into well-received essays. In 1654, Milton lost his sight but continued to fulfill his duties with the help of assistants. When the commonwealth government he worked for was overturned, Milton was jailed because of his allegiance.
Blind and outcast, Milton lost all of his property. A poor, blind, jobless man, he dictated his poem “Paradise Lost” to his family. He sold the poem for 5 pounds, which would be roughly $10,000 today. The poem was hailed as a masterpiece of English Language. He wrote many other poems, essays, and pamphlets, dying in 1674.
Milton felt the church should not be controlled by bishops, that Charles I should be executed, and that Cromwell’s Commonwealth form of government was the right one. He was passionate about freedom of speech, Christian liberty, and press.
Milton inspired others with his poetry about salvation and nature. His life story became hope and inspiration to those who lost everything. His two decades of commitment through personal challenge left a legacy of determination and spirit. He was a deeply faithful man who called on the spirit to help him create works of art.