
British
Poet
09 Dec 1608
08 Nov 1674
John Milton, a towering figure of English literature, was born in London in 1608. He attended St. Paul's School and later studied at Christ's College, Cambridge, where he excelled in languages, rhetoric, and theology. Milton's intellectual prowess was evident from an early age, foreshadowing his future as a prominent poet, polemicist, and civil servant. His deep-seated religious convictions, shaped by his Puritan upbringing, profoundly influenced his life and work.
Milton's literary legacy is primarily defined by his epic poem "Paradise Lost," considered one of the greatest works in the English language. Published in 1667, "Paradise Lost" explores complex themes such as the nature of evil, the fall of man, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. His poetic mastery, evident in the grandeur of his verse and the richness of his imagery, continues to captivate readers centuries later. Beyond his poetic achievements, Milton was also a fervent advocate for political and religious freedom, as demonstrated in his influential prose works such as "Areopagitica." Despite facing personal and political challenges, including blindness later in life, Milton's indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to his beliefs cemented his status as one of the foremost figures of the English Renaissance.