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“Milton was the trailblazer of the Renaissance and Reformation.” Discuss. 

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Paradise Lost Book 1 is a notable literary work by John Milton. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Paradise Lost Book 1.

Answer

“Milton was the trailblazer of the Renaissance and Reformation.” Discuss. 

John Milton (1608-1674) was a great English poet who lived during the Renaissance and Reformation periods. A trailblazer is someone who leads the way or shows a new path. In “Paradise Lost,” especially in Book I (1667), we can see that Milton’s ideas were strongly influenced by both these movements. His poem is full of ambition, new thinking, freedom, knowledge, and religion. That is why we can say Milton was a trailblazer of both the Renaissance and Reformation.

Renaissance Ideas in Milton

The Renaissance was a time of great change in Europe (14th–17th century). The word “Renaissance” means “rebirth.” It was a rebirth of classical learning, art, science, and thinking. People started thinking about human power, knowledge, beauty, and freedom. In “Paradise Lost, Book I,” we can see many Renaissance qualities, especially in the character of Satan.

Love for Individual Freedom: Satan does not want to serve anyone, not even God. He believes in his own freedom. He says that it is better to be free in Hell than to serve in Heaven:

“Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heav’n.”

This line shows the Renaissance love of freedom and strong individual will. Satan wants to be free, even if it means pain. He follows his own path.

Human Spirit/Mind: Renaissance thinkers believed in the greatness of the human mind/spirit. In Milton’s “Paradise Lost, Book I,” Satan shows this spirit. Even after defeat, he does not lose hope. He speaks to the other fallen angels and tries to make them fight against God again. He says:

“All is not lost; the unconquerable Will,…

And courage never to submit or yield:”

Satan shows strong willpower, just like Renaissance heroes.

Use of Classical Learning: Milton uses many classical references from Greek and Roman myths in Book I. For example, he compares the fallen angels to Titans, who fought against the gods in Greek mythology. He compares Satan

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