Born 1608.—Died 1674.—James I.—Charles I.—Charles II.
This great poet, born in Bread Street, London, was Cromwell’s Latin Secretary, and was strongly imbued with republican opinions. His Paradise Lost and Paradise Regained are models of sublime verse; and Comus and many smaller poems and sonnets are full of beauty and learning. Milton was totally blind, and was obliged to dictate his poems to his daughter, who wrote for him. He was buried in St. Giles’ church, Cripplegate, London.
SIR PETER LELY.
Born 1617.—Died 1680.—James I.—Charles I.—Charles II.
A celebrated portrait painter, whose pictures are full of grace and exquisite colouring. He painted the well-known beauties of the court of Charles II.
JOHN BUNYAN.
1628–1688.—Charles I.—Charles II.—James II.
Born in Bedfordshire, where he began life as a tinker, then enlisted as a soldier in the Parliamentary army, and ended by preaching, for which he suffered imprisonment for twelve years. While in prison he wrote his famous allegory The Pilgrim’s Progress, and several others, by which his name will always be known.
JOHN DRYDEN.
Born 1631.—Died 1700.—Charles I.—Charles II.—James II.—William III.