Paradise Lost

John Milton | Biography

English poet, polemicist, and civil servant.

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : March 18, 2025

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Who is John Milton?

John Milton was a prominent English poet and political figure, born on December 9, 1608, in London. He is widely celebrated for his epic poem "Paradise Lost," considered one of the greatest works in the English language. His literary contributions extend beyond poetry; he also penned significant prose works advocating for freedom of the press and the abolition of the Church of England. Milton's deep engagement with the political turmoil of his time, particularly during the English Civil War, showcases his commitment to Puritan ideals and his opposition to monarchical rule, which deeply influenced the political landscape of England and later the American and French revolutions.

Milton's education at St. Paul’s School and Christ’s College, Cambridge, laid the foundation for his remarkable fluency in several languages, including Latin, Greek, and Hebrew. After his graduation, he spent years in independent study, creating influential poetry that included "Lycidas" and "On Shakespeare." His marriage to Mary Powell in 1642 marked a pivotal point in his life, and their tumultuous relationship inspired his writings on divorce. Despite personal tragedies, including the deaths of his first two wives and eventual blindness, Milton continued to produce profound literary works, culminating in "Paradise Lost" and "Paradise Regained," which explored complex theological themes and the human condition.

Early Life and Education

John Milton was born in London on December 9, 1608, to John and Sara Milton, becoming the second of three surviving children in his family. He grew up in a household that valued education and literary pursuits, greatly shaping his intellectual development. Attending St. Paul’s School, Milton demonstrated early proficiency in languages, mastering Latin, Greek, Italian, Hebrew, French, and Spanish. This rich linguistic foundation would later inform his poetic genius, allowing him to draw upon a diverse literary heritage in his work.

Milton furthered his education at Christ’s College, Cambridge, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 1629 and later a Master of Arts in 1632. His time at the university was marked by a fervent intellectual curiosity, which translated into an aspiring literary career. During his six years living in Buckinghamshire post-Cambridge, he focused on independent study and creative writing, producing early works that revealed his growing poetic abilities. This period culminated in significant poems such as "On the Morning of Christ’s Nativity," "Lycidas," and others, establishing the groundwork for his later, more renowned compositions.

Poetry, Politics, and Personal Life

John Milton, an influential figure in English literature, significantly shaped both poetry and politics during his lifetime. After graduating from Cambridge in 1629, he spent six formative years in Buckinghamshire, where he immersed himself in independent study and produced notable works such as “Lycidas,” an elegy for a friend who had tragically drowned. His journey took a pivotal turn in 1638 when he traveled to Europe, where he likely encountered the renowned astronomer Galileo. This period of intellectual exploration would later inform his powerful writings, especially in the context of the political turmoil brewing in England.

Milton’s political beliefs were deeply rooted in his Puritan faith, leading him to actively oppose the established Church of England and the monarchy. His advocacy for religious reform and civil liberties was evident in his pamphlets that championed freedom of the press, reflecting his commitment to Enlightenment ideals. As a fervent supporter of Oliver Cromwell during the English Civil War, he played a crucial role in the establishment of the Commonwealth and even published official documents for Cromwell’s government. Milton's personal life mirrored his tumultuous times; he experienced two marriages marked by tragedy and loss, raising a family amidst the chaotic backdrop of political strife and personal hardship.

Milton's Major Works and Achievements

John Milton was an influential English poet and political thinker best known for his epic poem, "Paradise Lost," which is widely regarded as one of the greatest works in English literature. Published in 1667, "Paradise Lost" explores profound themes such as free will, obedience, and the nature of good and evil through the biblical story of the Fall of Man. The poem's intricate structure and rich language highlight Milton's mastery of the English language, solidifying his status as a leading figure in the literary canon. Its exploration of Satan's rebellion and Adam and Eve's tragic choices has resonated with readers for centuries, inspiring countless adaptations and analyses.

In addition to "Paradise Lost," Milton's literary contributions include "Paradise Regained" and "Samson Agonistes," both published in 1671. "Paradise Regained" serves as a counterpoint to his earlier work, depicting the temptation of Jesus and his ultimate victory over sin. "Samson Agonistes" delves into themes of redemption and inner strength through the story of the biblical figure Samson. Milton's body of work extends beyond poetry; he wrote extensively in prose, advocating for the abolishment of the Church of England and championing free speech and divorce rights. His political activism during the English Civil War further carved his legacy, influencing future revolutionary movements in America and France.

Later Life and Marriages

John Milton's later life was marked by significant personal and political upheaval. After being imprisoned due to his involvement with the Commonwealth and the fall of Charles I, he was released, likely thanks to the support of influential allies. This period saw the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, which shifted the political landscape in England and affected many of Milton's works and beliefs. Despite the turbulent times, Milton continued to write prolifically, producing some of his most famous literary masterpieces.

Milton's personal life was tumultuous as well. He married three times; his first marriage to Mary Powell in 1642 ended with years of separation before they reunited and had four children. Tragically, Mary passed away in 1652, the same year Milton lost his sight completely. In 1656, he married Katherine Woodcock, but she died just two years later. Milton then wed Elizabeth Minsull in the later years of his life, as he continued to navigate both personal sorrow and the political challenges of his time while creating enduring literary works.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

John Milton, the renowned poet behind "Paradise Lost," experienced a tumultuous personal life that significantly influenced his writings and ideology. He married three times, with his first marriage to Mary Powell taking place in 1642 when he was 34 years old, and she was just 17. Their marriage was fraught with challenges, leading to a separation during which Milton authored "The Divorce Tracts," advocating for the right to divorce. Despite this early strife, the couple eventually reunited and welcomed four children into their family before Mary's untimely death in 1652. This loss profoundly affected Milton and coincided with his unfortunate loss of eyesight the same year.

Milton's second marriage was to Katherine Woodcock in 1656, yet this union was short-lived as she passed away just two years later in 1658. His third and final marriage to Elizabeth Minsull occurred after his release from prison, marking a new chapter in his life. Throughout these relationships, Milton's experiences with love, loss, and the challenges of family life often mirrored the themes of struggle and redemption explored in his literary works. His children and marriages were instrumental in shaping the emotional depth and philosophical inquiries present in his enduring poetry, revealing the intimate intersections of his personal and professional passions.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary

John Milton, the renowned English poet and writer, is primarily celebrated for his epic poem "Paradise Lost," which is considered a monumental achievement in English literature. While specific details about Milton's net worth and earnings during his lifetime are not well-documented, it is essential to understand that his financial stability was markedly affected by the turbulent political climate of England during the 17th century. As a prominent Puritan and a vocal critic of the monarchy, Milton faced both financial gains and losses, particularly through his support of the Commonwealth and Oliver Cromwell’s government. His various writings, though often not lucrative in his lifetime, have since earned him immense recognition, significantly increasing his value posthumously.

Milton's career spanned both poetry and prose, with works that advocated for freedom of speech and divorce. His publications, particularly during the English Civil War and the subsequent Commonwealth period, were instrumental in shaping public opinion and political discourse. However, his financial resources fluctuated; he faced periods of poverty, especially after losing his second wife and while grappling with his blindness. Ultimately, while Milton's material wealth may not have been substantial during his lifetime, his literary legacy has made him an invaluable figure in literature, ensuring his influence endures far beyond his financial circumstances.