Facts about John Milton

Learn some interesting facts about 

John Milton.  

 

This week, we delve into the life and works of the renowned poet, John Milton, a significant figure in the literary world. Last week, we explored the poetry of Christina Rossetti. 

John Milton, a towering figure in the realm of poetry, created an extensive body of work comprising over twenty extraordinary poems that have left an indelible mark on literature. He was born in London, England, to parents John Milton and Sarah Jeffrey, and he grew up alongside two siblings. Throughout his life, Milton's literary genius flourished, as he explored profound themes such as human nature, morality, and divine justice. His contributions to literature, including epic works such as "Paradise Lost," continue to resonate and inspire generations of writers and readers alike, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest poets in the English language.

Here is a list of some poems by John Milton: 

• The Passion
• A Mask
• On Shakespeare
• On Time
• Song on May Morning
• Psalm 136
• Psalm Translations
• Paradise Lost
• At a Solemn Musick

Parents and caretakers, be sure poems are child-friendly before reading them to your child or children.

Interesting facts about John Milton: 

1. He was born on December 9, 1608, in the bustling city of London, England, a vibrant hub of commerce and culture during the early 17th century.

2. John Milton, the renowned English poet and intellectual, was 65 years old at the time of his death. He passed away on November 8, 1674, in London, England, a city that had been central to his life and work. Milton is buried at St Giles-without-Cripplegate, a historic church situated in the City of London, which has served as a final resting place for many notable figures. Milton’s death was attributed to either tuberculosis, a disease that affects the lungs, or gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis that causes severe pain. His literary contributions, particularly his epic poem "Paradise Lost," continue to influence writers and thinkers to this day.

3. The following is one of John Milton’s poems:

On Shakespeare

What needs my Shakespeare, for his honoured bones,

The labour of an age in piled stones?

Or that his hallowed relics should be hid

Under a star-ypointing pyramid?

Dear son of Memory, great heir of Fame,

What need'st thou such weak witness of thy name?

Thou, in our wonder and astonishment,

Hast built thyself a livelong monument.

For whilst, to the shame of slow-endeavouring art,

Thy easy numbers flow, and that each heart

Hath, from the leaves of thy unvalued book,

Those Delphic lines with deep impression took;

Then thou, our fancy of itself bereaving,

Dost make us marble, with too much conceiving,

And, so sepulchred, in such pomp dost lie,

That kings for such a tomb would wish to die.

 

(You can print out a worksheet on this poem. You will fill in the missing words in the poem.) 

4. John Milton was a renowned polemicist, known for his fervent engagement in controversial debates and discussions. A polemicist is characterized by their inclination to challenge prevailing ideas, provoke thought, and advocate for their beliefs through passionate argumentation. Milton's writings frequently reflected his strong opinions on the religious, political, and social issues of his time, showcasing his skill in crafting compelling arguments that stirred public discourse and encouraged others to question established norms and authority. His work not only highlighted his intellectual vigor but also made significant contributions to the broader arena of political and literary criticism.

5. John Milton received his early education primarily at home, where he was tutored by a scholar named Thomas Young. This personalized instruction laid a strong foundation for his intellectual development. Milton later attended St Paul's School in London, albeit for a limited time, where he immersed himself in the study of classical languages, particularly Greek and Latin. His passion for learning led him to pursue higher education at the prestigious University of Cambridge. After diligent studies, he graduated in 1629, marking a significant milestone in his academic journey and setting the stage for his future contributions to literature and poetry.

6. Here is a list of John Milton’s siblings:

• Anne Milton (1604)
• Christopher Milton (1615)

7. John Milton was married three times. Here is a list of his wife's names:

• Mary Powell (1^st wife)
• Katherine Woodcock (2^nd)
• Elizabeth Minshull (3^rd)

8.  He had five children altogether, four of whom he had with his first wife, Mary Powell. He had one child with his second wife, Katherine Woodcock. Here is a list of his five children:

• Anne
• Mary
• John
• Deborah
• Katherine

9. At forty-three, John Milton was struck with complete blindness. However, this did not deter his creative spirit. In fact, it was during this challenging period that he penned his masterpiece, Paradise Lost, a twelve-book epic spanning over 10,000 lines. His resilience and determination are truly inspiring.

 

 

Get your printable John Milton worksheet here: 

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Visit my printables section for a wide selection of worksheets and coloring sheets!

 

Books by John Milton and others: 

1. John Milton: A Biography by Neil Forsyth

2. Milton's Paradise Lost by John Milton

3. The Complete Poems Of John Milton by John Milton

 

Parents and caregivers, ensure the books you read to your child or children are suitable for them. 

 

Tune in next time to learn some quick facts about John Keats!

"Explore the world of poetry and ignite your creativity with the Famous Poets Workbook, now available on Amazon. Click on the book to delve into a journey of self-expression and inspiration."

 

“What reinforcement we may gain from hope, If not, what resolution from despair.”—John Milton