John Milton: Life, Writing, Reputation [Paperback]

These essays lead the reader into the political and intellectual worlds within which John Milton wrote his verse and prose, and into the later worlds within which his reputation evolved and fluctuated. The illuminating and entertaining range of perspectives will appeal to specialists and non-specialists alike.This volume offers a series of fresh explorations of the life, writing, and reputation of John Milton.
The ten papers take us inside Milton's verse and prose, into the context of the events and the intellectual debates within which they were written, and into the later worlds within which his reputation evolved and fluctuated. Key topics discussed include: his political beliefs and career; the characteristics of his poetry - especiallyParadise Lost; the literary influences upon his verse; his perception of women; and the ways he has been seen since his death.
John Milton: Life, Writing, Reputationwill be essential reading not only for scholars and students of literature, but for all those interested in Milton's work and reputation over the last four centuries. Lucidly written and set[s] a very high scholarly standard...Even the most seasoned scholars should be grateful for a volume that lays out so clearly where the field stands as Milton enters his fifth century and where scholars can profitable go from here. --Milton Quarterly

Milton and the Peopleis clear and concise enough for students and nonspecialists to
consult, and substantive and thought-provoking enough for Miltonists to study closely.
This is a significant book.... --Renaissance Quarterly