Milton's Comus

Milton’s “Comus” is a beguiling 17‑century masque that straddles the line between drama and lyric poetry. First performed at Ludlow Castle in 1634, it weaves together myth, music, and moral reflection, inviting listeners into a forest where a solitary maiden confronts temptation and the forces of reason. The work’s language is richly layered, drawing on classical allusions while probing the limits of self‑control and virtue, making it a fascinating study of early‑modern thought.

The edition’s generous introduction, penned by a seasoned scholar, places the masque squarely in Milton’s formative years. It explains how his studies of Greek, Roman, and English literature shaped the piece, and it unpacks the many ways critics have labeled the work—mask, lyrical drama, allegory, and more. With clear notes that illuminate obscure references, this version offers both newcomers and seasoned listeners a guided journey through Milton’s youthful imagination and the cultural currents that inspired it.