How to Study Milton

Seeking to offer a method of reading Milton's major and minor writings which will give the student a new insight into these, this book provides a guide to Milton's language and classical and biblical analogies - an essential tool for understanding Milton's poetry for A-level and undergraduate studies. The book aims to show the reader how to look for the main ideas in the poems through a series of simple steps which should develop confidence in the ability to read them. After a brief introduction explaining the method, the reader is introduced to the opening Books of "Paradise Lost". This is followed by a chapter outlining the historical context of the 17th century and the life of Milton. Books IV, IX and X of "Paradise Lost" are then examined in the light of this additional understanding. Following this there is an exploration of "Lycidas" and "Comus" as a way into the shorter poems, ending with a chapter devoted to "Samson Agonistes". The final chapter offers advice on writing an essay, particularly in preparation for examinations.