John Milton: Paradise Lost

John Milton: Paradise Lost offers a reliable, intelligent, if somewhat stolid, guide for first-time readers of the poem. [...] It ... offer[s] basic principles of interpretation that are clear, unintimidating, and repeatable regardless of the practitioner's level of proficiency.' - Andrea Walkden in 'Milton Quarterly'

This essential volume helps students to appreciate Milton's classic work. Part I uses carefully selected extracts for close textual analysis, while Part II examines the historical and literary contexts and key criticism. The volume is an ideal introductory guide for those who are studying 'Paradise Lost' for the first time.Paradise Lost is for many the greatest poem written in English. Composed late in the author's life, it deals with nothing less than the destiny of mankind. This essential introductory guide: - Leads the reader into the epic poem through detailed analysis of key extracts, exploring Milton's original thought and style - Provides useful sections on 'Methods of Analysis' and 'Further Work' to aid independent study - Offers valuable information on Milton's life, times and literary legacy - Examines the development of critical opinion and discusses some recent critical views of the poem. John Milton: Paradise Lost is ideal for anyone who is studying this complex and beautiful work for the first time. It will enable you to approach your own critical analysis of the poem with confidence.