Speech Acts in Blake's Milton

This study provides an extended close reading of the speech acts of characters in Blakes epic poem Milton, exploring how sacred history proceeds through the instant of time immediately prior to apocalypse. It is intended for Blake scholars and the common reader, offering a comprehensive introduction to one of the most gigantic imaginative achievements in English poetry.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 16 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This study offers an in-depth analysis of the speech acts of characters in William Blake's epic poem "Milton," drawing upon the frameworks of J. L. Austin's understanding of performative speech and Angela Esterhammer's work on the linguistic practices of Milton and Blake. With the exception of the "Bard's Song" portion, "Milton" is dedicated to providing a meticulously detailed account of the various aspects of the moment preceding the apocalypse, an instant in which Milton assumes the central role, and Blake himself participates. This study investigates how sacred history unfolds towards and through this instant through the medium of speech acts. This extended commentary is intended for both Blake scholars and general readers who are approaching "Milton" for the first time. For scholars, this monograph offers a comprehensive exploration of a previously overlooked theme in the scholarship surrounding "Milton." For the general reader, it provides a comprehensive introduction to what Northrop Frye referred to as "one of the most gigantic imaginative achievements in English poetry."

Introduction:
"Milton" is a remarkable epic poem that delves into profound themes of religion, politics, and human nature. Blake's use of language and imagery creates a vivid and immersive experience for the reader, making it a challenging yet rewarding literary work. In this study, we will explore the speech acts of characters in "Milton" and analyze how they contribute to the overall narrative and themes of the poem.

J. L. Austin's Understanding of Performative Speech:
J. L. Austin, a prominent philosopher of language, argued that speech acts are actions that have consequences beyond their literal meaning. In "Milton," Blake employs various speech acts to convey his ideas and convey the characters' intentions and emotions. For example, Milton's speeches in the poem are often characterized by their grandiose and rhetorical nature, which serve to emphasize his power and authority. Blake also uses speech acts to create tension and conflict between characters, such as when Satan challenges God's authority or when Milton argues against the corruption of society.

Angela Esterhammer's Work on Language and Performance:
Angela Esterhammer, a scholar of early modern literature, has studied the linguistic practices of Milton and Blake in great detail. She argues that these poets used language to create a sense of performativity, where the act of speaking itself becomes a means of expressing meaning. In "Milton," Blake employs a range of linguistic devices, such as alliteration, assonance, and metaphor, to create a sense of urgency and intensity in his poetry. He also uses repetition and rhyme to emphasize certain themes and ideas, such as the corruption of society and the struggle between good and evil.

Close Reading of Speech Acts:
In this study, we will conduct a close reading of the speech acts of characters in "Milton," focusing on their linguistic choices, tone, and purpose. We will examine how the speech acts of Milton, Satan, and other characters contribute to the overall narrative and themes of the poem. We will also consider how the speech acts of these characters reflect their personalities and motivations, and how they interact with each other to shape the course of the story.

Conclusion:
"Milton" is a complex and multifaceted poem that requires careful analysis and interpretation. Through the study of the speech acts of characters in "Milton," we can gain a deeper understanding of the poem's themes and ideas and appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of Blake's language. This study will provide a valuable contribution to the scholarship surrounding "Milton" and will be of interest to both scholars and general readers alike.

Weight: 410g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032379180