Citizen Milton

Posted by 161/

A new exhibition at the Bodleian Library Oxford celebrates the 400th anniversary of the birth of John Milton (1608-74). Phillip Pullman opened the Citizen Milton exhibition and reminded the audience that many of the books in the exhibition had been saved from the bonfires of censorship on two occasions.

In 1660 Charles II, in his attack on the recent republican past, ordered Milton's books to be burnt. In 1683 the Convocation of Oxford voted to burn Milton's and other subversive books. On both occasions the books survived, hidden away in the Bodleian Library.

The exhibition emphasises Milton's role as a politically engaged writer through his advocacy of freedom of the press, public debate, education for liberty and the abolition of the monarchy.

On display in the exhibition are Milton's major works from the Bodleian Library's collections including the rare first editions of Areopagitica and the greatest epic poem in the English language, Paradise Lost. The exhibition explores the lasting power and influence of Milton's works.

There is one book with a direct connection to the CPBF. On display is Milton and the Modern Media which Milton's Areopagitica and "A Text for Our Time" by Granville Williams, which explains the historical context of Milton's work, and its contemporary relevance.

The  free exhibition continues in the Bodleian Library until 26 April. Copies of Milton and the Modern Media  (£4.50 inc P&P) are available from B&D, 6-8 Church Street, Church, Accrington BB5 4LF