Dobranski (Renaissance literature and textual studies, Georgia State U.) has compiled this volume of the series, begun in 1949, that is the first in two centuries to present commentary and
criticism of British poet Milton's (1608-74) work. Archie Burnett (English, Boston U.) contributes an introduction to what he suspects is Milton's most controversial poem in terms of its
composition date, how to regard the principle characters, whether Samson undergoes regeneration, and whether the work is to be read politically or typologically. Excerpts from criticism are
presented chronologically on the title and on specific passages in the preface, the argument, and the poem itself. The volume is not indexed. Annotation 穢2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR
(booknews.com)
