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The Expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden, by William Blake
The Blind Bard
The Blind Bard
Milton's dedicated Republicanism is evidenced by his polemical tract The Tenure of Kings and Magistrates published in 1649. However, his progressiveness came to fruition earlier in his career when in support of divorce and free speech, both of which being extremely controversial issues. In short, he believed the power of the Crown to be a contractual obligation between the king and his people. His tracts and political stance would directly contribute to the execution of King Charles in 1649.
By 1651, Milton was totally blind. Despite this, he began to compose the verse which would found Paradise Lost, and served a formal capacity in Commonwealth government as Minister of Foreign Tongues. He published his final polemical pamphlet in 1660, and fought ardently against the return of monarchical rule through the Restoration.
“Better to reign in Hell, than to serve in Heaven.”
The Failed Commonwealth
The Failed Commonwealth
The period known as the English Commonwealth or Republic came to an abrupt end due to an unpopular leader, the son of the late Oliver Cromwell. As a result, the English people were eager to reinstate the former ruling dynasty, by way of the coronation of King Charles II in 1661. Many Commonwealth leaders saw trial and execution during this period, much to the chagrin of Milton, who was himself tried and acquitted.
Considering his political life and the state of English affairs, it becomes impossible not to draw parallels behind the political facilities of Paradise Lost and English contemporary political conjecture. By re-envisioning the story of Genesis with evolved analysis, Milton sought to demonstrate new challenges for new leadership.
The Coronation of King Charles II
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