Great Poets : John Milton [Abridged, Audiobook] [Audio CD]

John Milton (Author), Samantha Bond (Narrator), Derek Jacobi (Narrator)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 5, 2008 | ISBN-10: 9626348550 | ISBN-13: 978-9626348550 | Edition: Collectors

This collection of John Milton's finest poetry marks the quatercentenary of the poets birth in 1608. His uncompromising views set him firmly on the side of Cromwell, putting his life in danger when the Stuart monarchy was restored. But he is now remembered for Paradise Lost and a strong collection of other poetry which influenced successive generations. This CD offers an ideal overview, including excerpts from the major works such as Comus and Samson Agonistes, as well as his famous poems.

Editorial Reviews

Review

). The quality of Derek Jacobi's audio performances can be erratic, but he is on top form here, his sparkling confidence with meter and rhyme allowing meaning to be revealed. Samantha Bond's expressive empathy also transcends the complex language and the classical references to deliver powerful ideas on politics (Milton was a republican), religion and love. Musicality is central to the poet's works: his friend Henry Lawes set many of the poems to music, so it is fitting that his pieces, performed on original instruments, are integral to this production. - Audiobook of the Week

From AudioFile

The incomparable Derek Jacobi is completely in his element when reading Milton. His performance of the sonnet "On Shakespeare" seems particularly well suited to his voice, which is so closely associated with the Bard. Samantha Bond is equally comfortable with Milton's verse, and the two work well together in the selections that call for two voices. While PARADISE LOST is, no doubt, Milton's most well-known masterpiece (if not his most widely read), this recording includes only brief selections from it, totaling less than seven minutes. This is a wise editorial choice as it leaves room for some shorter and more accessible poems that showcase the work of these two outstanding narrators. D.B. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine

Product Details

• Audio CD: 1 pages
• Publisher: Naxos AudioBooks; Collectors edition (February 5, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 9626348550
• ISBN-13: 978-9626348550
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 5.9 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.5 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,607,511 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)