Milton's Poetical Thought: The Literary Agenda

The Literary Agenda is a series of short polemical monographs about the importance of literature and reading in the wider world and the state of literary education inside schools and universities. This book argues that John Milton offers one of the most powerful arguments for the importance of poetry today, both representing in his poetry and demonstrating through his own life, the transformative and sustaining force of the human imagination even in times of greatest upheaval. He uses the resources of poetry to challenge and shake us up, making us think in unfamiliar ways and expanding our imagination and our sense of the possibilities in our lives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 12 August 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The Literary Agenda is a series of concise and argumentative essays that explore the significance of literature and reading in the broader context of society and the state of literary education within schools and universities. The concept of literature has always been a subject of debate, with its definition and scope being subject to various interpretations and challenges. However, what is evident is the growing dismissal or disregard of literature as a mode of thinking or a platform for intellectual inquiry. This skepticism is manifested from within, with competing claims from cultural history, contextualized explanations, and media studies questioning its relevance and significance. Furthermore, literature is subjected to external pressures, including economic constraints and the severe social attitudes that can result from them. Technological advancements, which may render traditional forms of serious human communication outdated, further contribute to the marginalization of literature.

In the face of these challenges, there is an urgent need for renewal and revitalization of work on the meaning and value of literary reading. This book argues that John Milton offers one of the most compelling arguments for the importance of poetry in contemporary times. Despite his seventeenth-century Puritan background and the seemingly distant nature of his work, Milton's poetry possesses a timeless quality that resonates with our contemporary needs. Through his poetry, Milton represents and demonstrates the transformative and sustaining power of the human imagination, even in the most tumultuous periods of history.

Writing from his own personal experiences of loss and disappointment, Milton asserts that poetry is a form of knowledge, a way of seeing and understanding the world around us, others, and indeed ourselves. He believes that poetry has the ability to evoke emotions, challenge perceptions, and inspire introspection, fostering a deeper understanding of the human condition. Milton's poetry is rich in metaphor, imagery, and symbolism, which allow readers to engage with complex ideas and emotions on a profound level. His use of language is masterful, with his poetic rhythms and cadences creating a sense of urgency and intensity that captures the essence of human experience.

Moreover, Milton's life serves as a testament to the power of poetry. Despite facing personal setbacks and challenges, he remained committed to his artistic pursuits and used his poetry as a means of expressing his deepest thoughts and emotions. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering belief in the transformative power of literature inspire readers to embrace the beauty and complexity of the human experience.

In conclusion, the Literary Agenda series highlights the importance of literature and reading in a world that is constantly evolving and changing. John Milton's poetry offers a powerful argument for the significance of poetry in contemporary times, demonstrating its ability to transform, sustain, and inspire. By engaging with Milton's work and exploring the transformative power of the human imagination, we can reclaim the importance of literature as a mode of thinking and a platform for intellectual inquiry. Through renewed efforts and a deeper appreciation of the value of literature, we can foster a more literate and empathetic society that is better equipped to navigate the challenges of our time.

Weight: 166g
Dimension: 130 x 196 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198808824