Question

What major life event occurred to Milton by the year 1652?

• A. He published his first major poem
• B. He became completely blind
• C. He moved to Italy for inspiration
• D. He lost his wife in a tragic accident

Answer 1

Answer:

B. He became completely blind

• By the year 1652, John Milton had become completely blind.

• His eyesight had been deteriorating for years, likely due to glaucoma or retinal detachment, and he eventually lost his vision entirely in his early 40s.

• Despite this, Milton continued to write and work, dictating his poems, letters, and political writings to assistants, secretaries, and often his daughters.

• Some of his most important works—including Paradise Lost—were composed after he lost his sight, making his achievements even more remarkable.