"Concordance to the Poetical Works of John Milton" by John Bradshaw is an invaluable tool for readers delving into the intricate world of John Milton's poetry. It serves as a comprehensive reference guide, aiding students, scholars, and enthusiasts in understanding the depth and complexity of Milton's works.
The book is organized alphabetically, making it easy for readers to locate specific words or themes of interest. Each entry provides the word, its context within the poem, and references to the specific lines in which it appears. This meticulous attention to detail allows readers to explore the nuances of Milton's language and gain a deeper understanding of his themes and motifs.
One of the standout features of this concordance is its inclusivity. It covers not only Milton's most renowned works, such as "Paradise Lost" and "Paradise Regained," but also his lesser-known poems and sonnets. This makes it a treasure trove for those seeking a comprehensive analysis of Milton's complete poetic repertoire.
Available on Audible
The concordance also offers helpful indices that categorize words based on their grammatical function, allowing readers to explore Milton's use of specific parts of speech and rhetorical devices. This feature enhances readers' understanding of Milton's poetic techniques and his mastery of language.
Overall, "Concordance to the Poetical Works of John Milton" is an essential companion for anyone studying or exploring Milton's poetry. Through John Bradshaw's meticulous compilation, readers are provided with a comprehensive and organized resource that unlocks the richness and beauty of Milton's language, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation of his enduring works.
What are readers saying?
The book "Concordance to the Poetical Works of John Milton" by John Bradshaw has received a combination of positive and negative reviews. Some readers appreciate the concordance's comprehensive nature, noting its usefulness for studying and analyzing John Milton's poems. They admire Bradshaw's extensive research and effort in compiling the concordance, considering it an indispensable tool for scholars and students studying Milton's work.
However, some reviewers express frustration with the format and organization of the concordance. They believe it could have been presented in a more user-friendly manner, making it easier to navigate and find specific terms and references. Additionally, these readers find the level of detail overwhelming and unnecessary, making it difficult to quickly extract relevant information.
Despite these criticisms, many reviewers acknowledge that this concordance remains an essential resource for those studying Milton's poetry. They praise its extensive coverage of Milton's works, capturing his vocabulary, themes, and literary devices. The inclusion of cross-references is also appreciated, as it assists in exploring Milton's complex and interconnected body of work.
However, some reviewers mention that the concordance may not be suitable for casual readers or those new to Milton's poetry. They suggest that it is more suitable for advanced scholars or individuals who already possess a deep understanding of Milton's writing.
Overall, "Concordance to the Poetical Works of John Milton" by John Bradshaw is valued for its comprehensive approach and extensive research. Although it has some organizational flaws and may be overwhelming for casual readers, it remains an invaluable tool for scholars studying Milton's poetry.
JohnMilton Poetry LiteraryCriticism