John Milton (1608–1674) was a seminal English poet and intellectual, renowned for his epic poem "Paradise Lost," which explores themes of divine justice, free will, and the fall of man. Milton's work is a cornerstone of English literature, celebrated for its imaginative power, intricate blank verse, and profound philosophical depth. Beyond poetry, he was a staunch advocate for civil rights and freedom of speech, articulated in his tract "Areopagitica." Educated at Christ's College, Cambridge, Milton's puritanical beliefs significantly influenced his writings. Struggling with blindness later in life, he dictated his works, leaving a lasting literary and philosophical legacy.