Reading John Milton is a guide to Milton’s writings written for students, teachers, and readers everywhere seeking to approach this major figure in English and world literature. Milton’s works range from the monumental epic Paradise Lost to moving personal sonnets, from the tragic grandeur of Samson Agonistes to prose defenses of political liberty and religious tolerance. This book offers clear, fresh introductions and commentary that make an author with a reputation for difficulty relevant and accessible.
Individual texts are placed in their literary and historical contexts, and explored so as to encourage fresh, independent interpretations informed by the contemporary humanities. Carefully organized for ease of use, the book opens with reasons why Milton matters, ideas for critical approaches, and a biography of Milton. Subsequent chapters are dedicated to groups of works or individual masterpieces. Key themes are placed in focus and a full overview provided for all Milton’s major poems. Each chapter includes a set of stimulating questions and activities and suggestions for further reading keyed to a generous bilbiography, including online resources.
Reading John Milton is both an ideal introduction and a complete companion for anyone ready to experience the sublimity and delight of reading Milton.
Introduction
1. Biography
2. Approaching Milton’s Shorter Poems
3. Approaching Milton’s Early Drama
4. Approaching Milton’s Prose Works
5. Approaching Paradise Lost
6. Approaching Paradise Regained
7. Approaching Samson Agonistes
Biography
David Currell is Associate Professor and Chair of English at the American University of Beirut. He has published widely on Milton and Renaissance literature and is coeditor of the collections Digital Milton and Reading Milton through Islam. He is a recipient of AUB’s highest teaching award and of the Milton Society of America’s Hanford award for distinguished article.
