Milton and Heresy
Modern scholars have often understated or explained away John Milton’s heretical opinions. This volume investigates aspects of Milton’s works that are inconsistent with conventional beliefs, whether in terms of seventeenth-century theology or the common assumption of recent readers. Contributors situate Milton and his writings within his specific historical circumstances, paying special attention to Milton’s paradigmatic position within seventeenth-century religious controversy. The volume’s four parts deal with heretical theology, heresy’s consequences, heresy and community, and readers of heresy; their common premise is that Milton—as poet, thinker, and public servant—eschewed set beliefs and regarded indeterminacy and uncertainty as fundamental to human existence.
Praise for Milton and Heresy:
“[a] splendid collection of twelve essays . . . the range of issues [are] set forth with . . . vigor and intellectual acumen.”
Larry R. Isitt, Church History
“These outstanding essays dislodge the tenacious assumption that Milton’s religious thought is orthodox . . . Much credit should go to Dobranski and Rumrich, who not only contribute excellent essays, but edit a succinct and integrated collection.”
Abraham Stoll, Albion