The Influence of Milton on the Writings and Thought of St. Augustine- A Critical Analysis
Does St. Augustine was affected by Milton?
St. Augustine and John Milton are two of the most influential figures in the history of Christian theology and literature. Despite being separated by nearly a millennium, their works and ideas have often been compared and contrasted. The question of whether St. Augustine was affected by Milton is a topic of considerable debate among scholars. This article aims to explore the potential influence of Milton on Augustine’s thought and writing, while also considering the unique contributions of each philosopher to the development of Christian thought.
Augustine’s Influence on Milton
St. Augustine, born in 354 AD, is often considered the father of Western Christian philosophy. His works, such as “Confessions” and “City of God,” have had a profound impact on the development of Christian thought. Augustine’s emphasis on the importance of grace, the human condition, and the nature of evil has deeply influenced Milton’s writing.
One of the most significant ways in which Augustine influenced Milton was through his concept of the “City of God.” In “City of God,” Augustine presents a vision of two cities: the City of God, which is guided by faith and love, and the City of Man, which is characterized by sin and corruption. This binary framework can be seen in Milton’s “Paradise Lost,” where the struggle between good and evil is depicted through the contrasting narratives of Heaven and Hell.
Another area where Augustine’s influence is evident is in Milton’s treatment of the fall of man. In “Confessions,” Augustine reflects on his own sins and the human tendency to rebel against God. Similarly, in “Paradise Lost,” Milton depicts the fall of Adam and Eve as a pivotal moment in the narrative, emphasizing the consequences of human disobedience.
Milton’s Influence on Augustine
While St. Augustine had a significant impact on Milton, the reverse influence is less clear. However, some scholars argue that Milton’s work was influenced by the Renaissance humanism that was prevalent during his time. Renaissance humanism, which emphasized the importance of human reason and the pursuit of knowledge, may have indirectly influenced Augustine’s thought.
One possible way in which Milton’s work could have influenced Augustine is through the concept of the “Divine Comedy,” a work by Dante Alighieri that was highly influential during the Renaissance. “Divine Comedy” presents a journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven, and it is possible that Milton, being familiar with this work, was inspired by its narrative structure and themes. In “Paradise Lost,” Milton also presents a journey through Hell, which may have been influenced by the “Divine Comedy.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the relationship between St. Augustine and John Milton is complex and multifaceted. While Augustine’s works had a significant impact on Milton’s writing, the extent to which Milton was directly influenced by Augustine is less clear. However, it is evident that both philosophers contributed to the development of Christian thought in their respective eras. By examining the similarities and differences between their works, we can gain a deeper understanding of the evolution of Christian theology and literature throughout history.
