Introduction

About the lecture

In this module, Diane introduces the course as providing essential historical background for anyone reading Milton's 'Paradise Lost', with a special focus on Charles I. We are asked to keep two things in mind. First, this is a course that looks at Charles through the eyes of Milton, who was a staunch opponent of both Charles I and his son, Charles II. Second, although Milton sees Charles only as a political symbol, there is much to be gained from understanding Charles as a man.

About the lecturer

Diane Purkiss is a Professor at Keble College, Oxford. She has published two books on the English Civil War - 'The English Civil War: A People's History' (2006) and 'Literature, Gender, and Politics during the English Civil War' (2005).