Life and Education
When and where was John Milton born?
On December 9, 1608, in London
Whose secretary was Milton during the English Revolution?
Oliver Cromwell.
Who are the first humans in Paradise Lost?
Adam and Eve.
What is the name of the poem about Jesus Christ resisting temptation in the desert?
Paradise Regained" (1671).
In what year did John Milton die?
1674 (on November 8).
Which university did he attend?
Cambridge University (and St Paul's School)
Which key freedoms did he strongly defend?
Freedom of speech and the press.
In what year was Paradise Lost published?
1667.
What is the tragic drama about a blind hero?
Samson Agonistes" (1671).
In 17th-century English literature, Milton stands right alongside which other writer?
William Shakespeare.
What are some of the languages he knew?
Latin, Greek, Hebrew, and Italian.
What is the name of his famous 1644 text defending freedom of the press?
Areopagitica".
What animal does Satan turn into to trick Eve?
A snake
How many temptations did Satan offer Jesus in Paradise Regained?
Three (food, power/kingdoms, and showing his divine power).
Where is John Milton buried?
Westminster Abbey.
In what year did he become completely blind?
In 1652.
Which type of government did he strongly support?
The republican government.
What was the only rule God gave to Adam and Eve?
Do not eat the forbidden fruit.
How is Samson’s life similar to Milton’s own life?
Both were blind and faced great struggles.
Complete the quote: "A good book is the precious life-blood of a master..."
"...spirit."
How did he write his poems after losing his sight?
He composed them in his head and dictated them to his daughters and assistants.
According to Milton, what is the only thing that can defeat tyranny and oppression?
The power of truth.
What is the main lesson or moral of the story?
Pride brings the fall, and bad choices shape the future (free will).
How does Samson defeat his enemies in the end?
By pulling down the heavy pillars of the enemy temple, sacrificing himself.
Who said: "The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven"?
Paradise Lost