IL PENSEROSO

'''Il Penseroso''' is a famous pastoral poem by Milton, written in 1631. Invoking "divinest Melancholy", the poem is in praise of the contemplative, withdrawn life of study, philosophy, thought and meditation, and is a counterpiece to ''L'Allegro'', which praises the more cheerful sides of life and literature. Both pieces detail the passing of a day in the countryside according to both philosophies. Because of Milton's later reputation as a fearsomely learned and dour poet, readers often detect a greater autobiographical element in ''Il Penseroso''.
The poet and engraver William Blake, who was deeply influenced by Milton's poetry and personality, made illustrations to both ''L'Allegro'' and ''Il Penseroso''.

Contents

External links

External links

★ ''Il Penseroso ''at Dartmouth College

★ William Blake's illustrations

★ Handel's ''L'Allegro, il Penseroso ed il Moderato'', based partly on this poem.