Areopagitica

Considering Milton’s arguments in Areopagitica, how do you think he would feel about the state of freedom in the printing presses in your country right now? What parts of the text seem applicable? Which ones don’t? 

How would you summarize Milton’s argument regarding the purpose of reading books? Do you agree? Why or why not? 

Based on the evidence of the text, what would you infer about Milton’s religious beliefs? How do they inform his writing? 

Throughout the treatise, Milton makes many allusions to support his point. He often juxtaposes two or more references from very different cultures and civilizations. Look at those references. Where did they come from? What is the significance of those particular references? What do they say about the values that Milton is professing?

Areopagitica is a speech that was written to be read rather than delivered. Do you think this was the most effective way to get Milton’s point across? Why or why not? What are the advantages and disadvantages to this format?

What is Milton’s stance on free will? With or without the religious aspect of the argument, do you agree? Why or why not? What legislative practices would you put into place to support Milton’s concept of free will? What about yours?

Milton’s Areopagitica has been hugely influential in the centuries since it was written, but it was not particularly effective when it was given to Parliament in 1644. Why do you think it wasn’t effective? Where in today’s society do you see Milton’s ideals in action? Use specific examples from the text. 

How does Milton formulate good and evil? Where in the text does he discuss the concepts? How does his discussion of good and evil differ from those of the church and of Parliament?