ABSTRACT
As a man of controversy and as a creative artist attempting new forms and approaches, John Milton has been the subject of much discussion from his own lifetime to the present. The appearance of his name in print before 1800 (apart from his own works) falls into four categories: allusions, incidental and non-critical; argument, political or theological; illustration of points or brief critical statements; and longer biography, essays, or studies. Allusions or brief citations do not always name Milton or his works; and often the work of other writers incorporates Milton's language or subject-matter (almost entirely from the poems), either for praise or satire. The number of longer essays or studies devoted exclusively to Milton are few, and the bulk of material falls into the category of illustration or brief statement. However, the material available does allow a view of Milton's reception and fluctuating reputation, the controversies and adulation, accusations and defence, and changes in attitude and concerns. There is much in the material of a contemporary or near-contemporary nature from which to infer primary critical stands and issues; some of these have continued as viable stands and issues in twentieth-century views.
