John Milton Sells Paradise Lost for Publication
Blind and impoverished, John Milton sold his epic poem 'Paradise Lost' to a printer for £10, enabling its entry into the Stationers' Register. This act marked a pivotal moment in the dissemination of his work, which explores the themes of free will, obedience, and redemption. Despite his financial struggles and blindness, Milton ensured that his literary masterpiece could reach a wider audience through publication.
Milton's blindness impacted his writing process.
Paradise Lost explores themes of redemption and free will.
The sale was crucial for Milton's financial survival.
This marks the beginning of Milton's literary legacy.
What Happened?
John Milton, a prominent English poet, sold his iconic work 'Paradise Lost' for £10 to a printer, allowing it to be registered for publication in the Stationers' Register. Milton, having become blind and faced with considerable poverty, had completed the first version of 'Paradise Lost' in 1667. The poem, encompassing over ten thousand lines of verse, articulates the biblical story of the Fall of Man, illustrating the conflict between good and evil, divine justice, and human free will.
Why Does it Matter?
The publication of 'Paradise Lost' significantly influenced English literature, providing a new perspective on biblical narratives. It established Milton as a leading figure in literature and set a benchmark for epic poetry in the modern era. The sale not only ensured his work reached the public but also underscored the changing landscape of literary patronage during the Restoration period.