Paradise Lost

John Milton (1608-1674) is considered one of the greatest poets of the English Renaissance and one of the most outstanding names in universal literature. The son of a successful clerk who had moved to London and was equally successful in composing, Milton had a careful education with a private tutor who prepared him for a path of recognition in the various educational establishments he attended. He even read and wrote in Greek and Latin. He completed a course with distinction at Cambridge University for the purpose of becoming a priest of the Anglican Church. Since the age of 15, he was known to write poems in Latin and, throughout his academic career, his production was always continued. Having completed university, Milton began a program of private study that lasted several years. He read great classics of theology, literature, philosophy, politics, history, etc. He was fluent in writing and reading Latin, Greek, Hebrew, French, Spanish, Italian, and Old English. At the same time, he continued his literary and poetic production. At the end of this period, he travelled through France for more than a year and then left for Italy On his travels he met the great names of culture and science of the time. Personalities such as Hugo Grotius or Galileo were his friends and correspondents. News of the Civil War in England interrupted his travels, but he ended up staying on the continent leaving for Switzerland and again for Italy, where he stayed in several city-states. He became involved in the Civil War by writing several pamphlets. During this same period, Milton marries Mary Powell, but the woman does not adapt to his austere lifestyle and their political views differ. Mary quickly returned to her family home and in the following months Milton wrote several pamphlets on the legalization of divorce proceedings, as well as on the most varied topics: politics, history, legislation and many others. Also at that time appears the text Areopagitica – one of the most remarkable and pioneering defenses of freedom of expression, still tremendously influential today. Around that time, Milton is said to have courted a woman, prompting Mary Powell's return. Reconciled, they have two children practically in a row. Having defended Oliver Cromwell, Milton is invited to serve as Secretary for Foreign Languages in the Commonwealth Council. During this period, he became completely blind, for reasons that are unknown. After this event, his work was dictated and carried out by his various assistants and assistants. After the Restoration, Milton went into hiding, but was eventually arrested. His works were burned by court order. However, the influence of friends and cultural personalities from all over Europe led to a pardon. Milton lived the last decade of his life in a modest and quiet way, having produced smaller works.