Andrew Doyle, a playwright and author of "The New Puritans," joins Professor Alice Hunt, theatre critic Kate Maltby, and Professor Islam Issa to explore John Milton's profound influence on modern issues. They discuss Milton’s views on authority, free speech, and the consequences of tyranny. The conversation delves into relevant contemporary debates on regicide and political thought, while also examining the complexities of Puritanism and its dual legacy. Expect sharp insights and witty exchanges as they connect Milton's wisdom to today's societal challenges.
Milton's exploration of free speech and political authority underscores the ongoing relevance of his thoughts in today's polarized society.
His radical views on divorce emphasize personal freedoms and compatibility over societal norms, offering insights into modern relationships.
Milton's concept of tyranny and accountability encourages questioning of authority, resonating strongly amid contemporary political legitimacy debates.
Deep dives
Milton's Context and Relevance
Milton's work emerged during a period of intense political and religious upheaval in England, characterized by culture wars and divisions between various Protestant factions, particularly between Puritans and other groups. The parallels to contemporary society are notable, with ongoing political polarization and ideological tribalism reminiscent of Milton's time, where free thinking was a dangerous endeavor. His defense of reason and free speech can be compared to modern debates about the limits of expression and the consequences of political dissent. By exploring these connections, it becomes clear that the themes in Milton's writings continue to resonate in today's discussions about authority and freedom.
Divorce and Personal Liberty
Milton's writings on divorce reflect his views on personal and intellectual freedom, emerging from his own experiences during his challenging marriage. He articulated the concept of 'contrariety of mind,' arguing that genuine conversation is more significant than mere physical intimacy in a marriage. His tracts advocating for divorce were radical for his time, suggesting that relationships should be based on mutual compatibility rather than rigid societal rules. This intellectualization of personal circumstances offers insights into navigating contemporary discussions about marriage, compatibility, and individual freedoms.
Tyranny and Accountability
Milton’s concept of tyranny encompasses not only the oppressive actions of leaders but also the betrayal of the social contract between rulers and their subjects. His arguments in favor of regicide indicated a belief in the accountability of those in power, asserting that leaders could be executed not only for tyranny but also for any actions that undermine the rights of the populace. This provides a framework for questioning authority today, where issues of governmental accountability remain pivotal. As the world grapples with questions of political legitimacy, Milton’s assertions about justifying rebellion against tyrannical rule resonate strongly.
Freedom of Speech and Censorship
Milton's 'Areopagitica' stands as a passionate plea against censorship and a defense of free expression, arguing for the necessity of confronting both truth and falsehood in the realm of ideas. By denouncing pre-publication censorship, Milton envisioned a society where individuals could discern truth through reason rather than being subjected to top-down authorities. This discourse on freedom of speech has implications for current debates surrounding misinformation and the regulation of ideas in modern societies. Despite the inherent contradictions in Milton's stance, his advocacy for individual liberty and thought remains a cornerstone of liberal democratic ideals.
The Enduring Legacy of Milton
Milton’s integration of classical references and philosophical thought in his work creates a complex tapestry that defies easy categorization, making him a monumental figure in literature. His radical reimagining of themes such as free will, the nature of evil, and the pursuit of truth speaks to a broader human experience that transcends time and culture. Contemporary writers and thinkers, such as Salman Rushdie, draw inspiration from Milton’s revolutionary spirit, adapting his ideas to reflect modern challenges. The ongoing relevance of Milton’s work in discussions about personal, social, and existential dilemmas indicates a legacy that still informs cultural discourse today.
Political upheaval, the role of the press and free speech, attitudes towards divorce: the poet John Milton thought and wrote about all of these issues which also concern us today. Milton (9th Dec 1608-8th Nov 1674) might be best known to us today as the man behind the epic poem Paradise Lost, dictated after he had become blind, and published in 1674, but he was also the author of The Tenure of Kings and Magistrates and Eikonoklastes (1649) which examined the right of the people to hold authority to account and provided a defence of regicide. He also attacked pre-printing censorship in Areopagitica; A speech of Mr. John Milton for the Liberty of Unlicenc'd Printing, to the Parlament of England (1644). Matthew Sweet and his guests look at the resonances of Milton's writing now.
Andrew Doyle writes plays, performs stand-up, hosts a show on GB news and has written articles for Spiked. He is the co-author with Tom Walker of Jonathan Pie: Off the Record and has published a book called The New Puritans: How the Religion of Social Justice Captured the Western World. He has a doctorate in early Renaissance poetry from the University of Oxford.
Professor Alice Hunt is based at the University of Southampton and is working on a book titled England’s Republic: The Lost Decade, 1649–1660 supported by a Leverhulme Research Fellowship
Dr Kate Maltby is a lead columnist for The i newspaper and a theatre critic. She is also a Senior Research Associate at Jesus College, Cambridge working on Renaissance literature.
Professor Islam Issa is based at Birmingham City University. His books include Alexandria, the City that Changed the World, Milton in the Arab-Muslim World and Milton in Translation, ed. with Angelica Duran and Jonathan Olson
Producer: Luke Mulhall
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