On His Blindness

Definition

'On His Blindness' is a sonnet by John Milton that reflects on the poet's struggle with his blindness and explores themes of faith, talent, and divine purpose. The poem conveys Milton's deep concern about how his blindness affects his ability to serve God and fulfill his artistic potential, ultimately leading to a profound meditation on human limitations and the grace of God in the face of adversity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'On His Blindness' was written in 1655, during a time when Milton was grappling with the reality of losing his sight and its implications for his life and work.
2. 'The poem is structured as a Petrarchan sonnet, featuring an octave that presents the speaker's dilemma and a sestet that offers resolution through acceptance of God's will.'
3. 'A key theme in the poem is the idea that serving God can take many forms, and not all service is tied to physical abilities or talents.'
4. 'The line 'They also serve who only stand and wait' emphasizes the notion that patience and faith are valuable contributions to God's purpose, even in the absence of active work.'
5. 'This poem exemplifies Milton's exploration of personal suffering while maintaining a strong belief in divine justice and purpose.'

Review Questions

• How does Milton's personal experience with blindness shape the themes presented in 'On His Blindness'?
  • 'Milton's personal experience with blindness deeply influences the themes of 'On His Blindness' by framing his reflections on loss, talent, and divine purpose. The sonnet reveals his inner conflict between feeling inadequate due to his disability and recognizing that there are various ways to serve God. His struggle is a poignant reminder that even when faced with profound limitations, one can still find meaning and value in their existence through faith and patience.'
• What literary devices does Milton employ in 'On His Blindness' to convey his message about faith and service?
  • 'In 'On His Blindness,' Milton employs several literary devices, including imagery, metaphor, and personification. The use of imagery illustrates the stark contrast between light and darkness, symbolizing knowledge versus ignorance. Metaphors are utilized to express his feelings of inadequacy as he likens his blindness to a form of unproductiveness. Additionally, personification brings divine concepts to life, allowing readers to grasp the emotional weight of Milton’s reliance on God's grace. These devices work together to deepen the reader's understanding of the complexities surrounding faith and personal limitations.'
• Evaluate the broader implications of 'On His Blindness' in relation to Milton's other works and the cultural context of his time.
  • ''On His Blindness' serves as a critical lens through which one can evaluate Milton's other works, particularly 'Paradise Lost,' highlighting a continued exploration of human suffering, divine justice, and redemption. This poem reflects the cultural context of 17th-century England, where personal disability was often viewed through a theological lens. By addressing his blindness openly, Milton challenges societal perceptions about worth based on physical ability. His assertion that all forms of service to God are valid underscores an inclusive understanding of human experience that resonates with contemporary discussions around disability and capability.'

Related terms

Sonnet: 'A poetic form that typically consists of 14 lines with a specific rhyme scheme, often used to explore themes of love, nature, or existential contemplation.'

Divine Providence: 'The belief that God has a plan for individuals and the universe, guiding events and outcomes according to His will.'

Milton's Later Works: 'Refers to John Milton's writings produced after he became blind, including 'Paradise Lost,' which reflect his evolving thoughts on faith and human experience.'