"Milton was the trailblazer of the Renaissance and Reformation.” Discuss.
"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:
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.“Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heav’n.”
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:
Satan shows strong willpower, just like Renaissance heroes.“All is not lost; the unconquerable Will,...
And courage never to submit or yield:”
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 to a giant sea monster, “Leviathan.” He writes:
This monster is from classical myth. By using this comparison, Milton shows how huge and powerful Satan looks, even in defeat. This use of classical learning shows his Renaissance education and deep knowledge.“Leviathan…
…hugest that swim th' Ocean stream:
Reformation Ideas in Milton
The Reformation was a religious movement that started in the early 16th century. It protested against the corruption in the Roman Catholic Church. In England, it led to the rise of the Protestant Church. This movement valued people’s direct connection with God through the Bible. It also valued free will and spiritual freedom. Milton supported these Reformation ideas. We find these Reformation ideas in his poem.
God’s Justice and Free Will: Milton shows God as just and fair. He does not force anyone to obey. Even Satan had the freedom to choose. This shows the Reformation idea of free will and personal responsibility. People are not puppets; they must choose good or evil.
Bible as the Main Source: In “Paradise Lost,” Milton's story comes from the Bible, especially the story of Genesis. He writes about the beginning of sin and the fall of Satan. He writes:
Milton believed people should read the Bible and think deeply. This idea comes from the Reformation, which gave importance to personal study of scripture (holy writings of a religion).“Of man’s first disobedience,...
Brought death into the world, and all our woe.”
In conclusion, in “Paradise Lost, Book I,” Milton shows both Renaissance and Reformation ideas. Satan shows pride, ambition, and a strong mind, which reflect the Renaissance. The themes of free will and justice reflect the Reformation. Milton believed in freedom—both human and spiritual. So, we can say that Milton was truly a trailblazer of both the Renaissance and the Reformation.