Life of John Milton   By: Richard Garnett (1835-1906)

In Richard Garnett's insightful biography, he delves into the complex life of one of England's greatest literary figures, John Milton. Garnett's meticulous research and elegant prose offer readers a captivating journey through Milton's remarkable life and his enduring impact on literature.

Garnett begins by delving into Milton's childhood, exploring the influences that shaped his early years. From his Calvinist upbringing to his intellectual pursuits at Cambridge, the author masterfully paints a vivid picture of the writer's formative years. Garnett skillfully navigates through key events in Milton's life, providing a comprehensive understanding of the experiences that shaped his beliefs and literary genius.

Additionally, Garnett delves into the sociopolitical landscape of Milton's time, describing the turbulent era of the English Civil War and its aftermath. This context is crucial in comprehending Milton's role as an advocate for political and religious freedom, and the challenges he faced as a result of his staunch views. Garnett's meticulous attention to historical detail, combined with his objective analysis, provides readers with a nuanced understanding of Milton's motivations and the societal forces that shaped his writings.

The most captivating aspect of this biography is undoubtedly Garnett's exploration of Milton's literary works. From his powerful and controversial political essays to his epic poem, Paradise Lost, Garnett delves deep into the themes, structure, and influences behind Milton's literary masterpieces. By analyzing the impact of classical texts, the Bible, and contemporary politics on Milton's writings, the author offers readers a rich insight into the mind of a literary genius.

Furthermore, Garnett's writing style is exquisitely crafted. His prose flows effortlessly, making the biography a pleasure to read. Despite the often complex subject matter, Garnett's clarity and accessibility make this biography highly engaging for both scholars and general readers alike. Additionally, the book is well-structured, allowing readers to easily follow Milton's life journey and the evolution of his literary works.

Overall, Richard Garnett's Life of John Milton is an exceptional biography that offers readers an in-depth and engaging exploration of the life and works of one of history's greatest writers. Garnett's meticulous research, combined with his elegant writing style, make this book a must-read for anyone interested in Milton's life, his literary achievements, and the fascinating historical context in which he thrived.

First Page:

The number of miniature "Lives" of Milton is great; great also is the merit of some of them. With one exception, nevertheless, they are all dismissed to the shelf by the publication of Professor Masson's monumental and authoritative biography, without perpetual reference to which no satisfactory memoir can henceforth be composed. One recent biography has enjoyed this advantage. Its author, the late Mark Pattison, wanted neither this nor any other qualification except a keener sense of the importance of the religious and political controversies of Milton's time. His indifference to matters so momentous in Milton's own estimation has, in our opinion, vitiated his conception of his hero, who is represented as persistently yielding to party what was meant for mankind. We think, on the contrary, that such a mere man of letters as Pattison wishes that Milton had been, could never have produced a "Paradise Lost." If this view is well founded, there is not only room but need for yet another miniature "Life of Milton," notwithstanding the intellectual subtlety and scholarly refinement which render Pattison's memorable... Continue reading book >>