Do you think the speaker’s beloved is old at the time of writing the poem? Why do you think so? In the...Continue
What virtues does Wordsworth plead for Milton to bring back to England?
What virtues does Wordsworth plead for Milton to bring back to England?
In the poem “London, 1802,” (1807) William Wordsworth (1770-1850) calls upon the spirit of John Milton, a great poet from the past. He believes that Milton’s qualities can help improve England, which he feels is in a poor state. Wordsworth asks for several important virtues to be restored to England, which he feels are missing from society. Here are the virtues Wordsworth wants to see return:
- Manners: Wordsworth thinks people in England have forgotten how to behave nicely and respectfully. He wants them to be polite and considerate to each other again.
- Virtue: Virtue means doing what is right and being morally good. Wordsworth feels that England has lost its moral direction and needs to find it again.
- Freedom: He believes that freedom is very important for a happy and healthy society. Wordsworth wants people to be free to think and act without unfair restrictions.
- Power: He calls for power to be used wisely and justly. Wordsworth wants leaders who use their power to make life better for everyone, not just for themselves.
Wordsworth looks back to Milton because he sees him as a star, someone who stood apart for his strong character and wisdom. He hopes that by remembering and learning from Milton, England can regain these important qualities. This, Wordsworth believes, will heal the country and make it a better place for everyone.