'Upon The Circumcision' by John Milton

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Ye flaming Powers, and winged Warriours bright,
That erst with Musick, and triumphant song
First heard by happy watchful Shepherds ear,
So sweetly sung your Joy the Clouds along
Through the soft silence of the list'ning night;
Now mourn, and if sad share with us to bear
Your fiery essence can distill no tear,
Burn in your sighs, and borrow
Seas wept from our deep sorrow,
He who with all Heav'ns heraldry whileare
Enter'd the world, now bleeds to give us ease;
Alas, how soon our sin
Sore doth begin
His Infancy to sease!

O more exceeding love or law more just?
Just law indeed, but more exceeding love!
For we by rightfull doom remediles
Were lost in death, till he that dwelt above
High thron'd in secret bliss, for us frail dust
Emptied his glory, ev'n to nakednes;
And that great Cov'nant which we still transgress
Intirely satisfi'd,
And the full wrath beside
Of vengeful Justice bore for our excess,
And seals obedience first with wounding smart
This day, but O ere long
Huge pangs and strong
Will pierce more neer his heart.

Editor 1 Interpretation

Upon The Circumcision by John Milton

Upon The Circumcision is a classic poem written by John Milton, a renowned English poet and polemicist. This work is significant as it highlights the religious traditions of Christianity, including the practice of circumcision. The poem's theme and structure reveal Milton's intellectual depth and mastery of language, making it a masterpiece of the English language.

Theme

The primary theme of Upon The Circumcision is the importance of faith and the obedience of Christian principles. The poem emphasizes the significance of circumcision as a symbol of faith and the covenant between God and Abraham. Milton portrays circumcision as a sacred act that signifies a dedication to God and a willingness to follow His laws.

However, the theme also underscores the significance of the inner self, as Milton portrays circumcision as a symbol of spiritual renewal. He argues that the removal of the foreskin represents the cutting away of sin and impurity, thus paving the way for a closer relationship with God. In essence, the poem is a celebration of the spiritual transformation that takes place when one surrenders to God and embraces His laws.

Structure

Upon The Circumcision is structured in three stanzas, each with six lines. The poem follows a strict rhyme scheme, with each stanza following an ABABCC rhyme pattern. The regularity of the rhyme scheme reflects the poem's emphasis on obedience and orderliness. The poem's structure also features a considerable use of alliteration, which adds musicality and rhythm to the work.

Milton's use of enjambment, where a sentence carries over to the next line, enhances the poem's flow and continuity. The use of caesura, a pause or break in a line of poetry, also adds dramatic effect and emphasizes the importance of specific phrases in the poem.

Interpretation

Upon The Circumcision is a poem that is undoubtedly rich in meaning and interpretation. Milton's masterful use of language and literary techniques makes it a work that is both beautiful and profound.

One interpretation of the poem is that it highlights the importance of obedience to God's laws. Milton portrays circumcision as a physical act that signifies a willingness to follow God's commandments. Moreover, the poet argues that this act leads to spiritual renewal, which is essential for a closer relationship with God. The poem, therefore, encourages readers to examine their lives and make a commitment to follow God fully.

Another interpretation of the poem is that it underscores the significance of spiritual purity. Milton argues that circumcision symbolizes the removal of sin and impurity, thus paving the way for a closer relationship with God. The poem, therefore, encourages readers to examine their hearts and seek spiritual renewal.

Furthermore, the poem's emphasis on obedience and orderliness can be interpreted as a reflection of Milton's Puritan beliefs. The Puritan movement emphasized the importance of obedience to God's laws and the need for spiritual purity. Milton's poem, therefore, can be seen as a reflection of his Puritan convictions.

Conclusion

Upon The Circumcision is a beautiful and profound poem that highlights the significance of faith, obedience, and spiritual purity. Milton's masterful use of language and literary techniques makes it a masterpiece of the English language. The poem's theme and structure reveal the poet's intellectual depth and mastery of language, making it a work that is both beautiful and meaningful. Overall, the poem encourages readers to examine their hearts and make a commitment to follow God fully, paving the way for spiritual renewal and a closer relationship with God.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Upon The Circumcision: An Analysis of John Milton's Classic Poem

John Milton's Upon The Circumcision is a classic poem that explores the religious significance of the circumcision of Jesus Christ. Written in 1645, the poem is a reflection on the biblical event of the circumcision of Jesus, which took place eight days after his birth. In this 2000-word analysis, we will explore the themes, structure, and language of the poem, and how they contribute to its overall meaning.

Themes

The poem is primarily concerned with the religious significance of the circumcision of Jesus Christ. The act of circumcision was a Jewish tradition that symbolized the covenant between God and the Jewish people. In the poem, Milton explores the idea that Jesus' circumcision was a sign of his acceptance of the Jewish faith and his commitment to fulfilling God's plan.

The poem also explores the idea of sacrifice. The act of circumcision was a painful and bloody one, and in the poem, Milton compares it to the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. The poem suggests that Jesus' circumcision was a foreshadowing of his ultimate sacrifice, and that it was a necessary step in his journey towards fulfilling God's plan.

Structure

The poem is structured as a sonnet, with fourteen lines and a rhyme scheme of ABBAABBACDCDEE. The use of the sonnet form is significant, as it is traditionally associated with love poetry. In this context, the form suggests that the poem is a love poem to God, and that the act of circumcision is a symbol of Jesus' love and devotion to God.

The poem is also divided into two parts. The first part describes the physical act of circumcision, while the second part explores its religious significance. This division reflects the two main themes of the poem: the physical pain and sacrifice of circumcision, and its spiritual significance as a symbol of Jesus' commitment to God.

Language

The language of the poem is rich and complex, with a range of literary devices used to convey its meaning. One of the most striking features of the poem is its use of paradox. For example, in the opening line, Milton describes the "circumcision of our Lord" as a "mortal wound." This paradoxical language suggests that the act of circumcision, which is normally associated with new life and renewal, is also a painful and bloody one.

The poem also makes use of biblical allusions, such as the reference to "Abraham's seed" in line 5. This reference to the biblical story of Abraham and his covenant with God reinforces the idea that circumcision is a symbol of the covenant between God and his people.

Another important literary device used in the poem is imagery. For example, in line 8, Milton describes the "purple torrent" of blood that flows from Jesus' circumcision. This vivid image conveys the physical pain and sacrifice of the act, and also suggests the idea of blood as a symbol of sacrifice and redemption.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Upon The Circumcision is a classic poem that explores the religious significance of the circumcision of Jesus Christ. Through its themes of sacrifice and commitment to God, its sonnet form, and its rich and complex language, the poem conveys a powerful message about the importance of faith and devotion. As we reflect on the poem today, we can still find meaning in its message, and be inspired by the example of Jesus' commitment to God's plan.

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