This book provides an accessible route into Milton's complex epic poem, guiding students through the text by a combination of close textual analysis and summary of key themes and techniques. Assuming limited biblical or classical knowledge, it focuses on developing the reading skills necessary for tackling this canonical text.

John Donne's poems are some of the most challenging and stimulating in the English literary heritage. This book looks at the entire range of his poetic output, from the erotic to the divine, from satires to sonnets. Through detailed analysis of a large number of individual poems, Donne's intellectual vitality and unique poetic voice is entertainingly explored. The practical techniques are explained clearly, and when applied to the work of other poets, will enable the reader to feel confident in understanding and discussing even the most demanding verse.