Beyond Paradise Lost: Discovering Milton's Shorter Poetry
Your Instructor
PhD in English Literature
Harvard University
Samuel Bozoukov received his PhD in English Literature from Harvard University, where he taught courses on Shakespeare, Milton, the ancient Greek hero, and the history of the essay. His research explores the intersections of early modern literature, sound studies, poetics, and disability studies, with particular emphasis on John Milton’s Samson Agonistes.
What you'll learn
Gain confidence reading John Milton's poetry, regardless of prior experience
Explore how Milton's shorter poems engage questions of artistic ambition, imagination, political responsibility, and personal faith
Develop slow close-reading skills through discussion, attention to poetic language, and short weekly responses
Course Schedule
Class goal: Discovering and discussing the origin story behind one of the greatest poets in the English language
Readings
At a Vacation Exercise
How Soon Hath Time
(selected portions) On the Morning of Christ's Nativity
Themes: poetic vocation, education, time, patience, self-fashioning, youthful ambition
Guided question: Can artistic greatness be cultivated, or does the artist simply discover a calling already present?
What You Get
Live interactive sessions
Engage in real-time discussions with expert instructors
Small discussion groups
Up to 15 students for personalized attention
Session recordings
Review and revisit class content anytime
Dedicated platform
Track progress and organize your schedule
Frequently asked questions
Course-specific questions
Your Instructor
PhD in English Literature
Harvard University
Samuel Bozoukov received his PhD in English Literature from Harvard University, where he taught courses on Shakespeare, Milton, the ancient Greek hero, and the history of the essay. His research explores the intersections of early modern literature, sound studies, poetics, and disability studies, with particular emphasis on John Milton’s Samson Agonistes.