Wordsworth's London, 1802: Milton's Potential Impact

In William Wordsworth's sonnet "London, 1802," the poet expresses a deep yearning for a figure of Milton's stature to revitalize England. The poem serves as a lament for the perceived decline of English society and a call for a return to the values and virtues that Wordsworth associates with an earlier, more glorious past. Wordsworth clearly believes that England has strayed from its former greatness and implies that Milton, were he alive, could guide the nation back to a state of moral, intellectual, and spiritual strength. This essay will explore the specific qualities and characteristics that Wordsworth ascribes to Milton and how these attributes are meant to address the perceived failings of England in 1802.

The Decadence of England

Wordsworth paints a rather grim picture of England in 1802. The nation, in his view, is mired in selfishness, stagnation, and a loss of higher purpose. He uses strong, evocative language to convey this sense of decay, suggesting that the English people have become too focused on material pursuits and have neglected the more profound aspects of human existence. Wordsworth sees a decline in public virtue, a weakening of moral fiber, and a general apathy towards the common good. This decline, according to the poet, is not merely a matter of individual failings but a systemic problem that threatens the very fabric of English society.

The lines "We are selfish men; oh! raise us up, return to us again" reveal the poet's despair over the state of his fellow countrymen. He sees them as being consumed by their own desires and lacking a sense of collective responsibility. The use of the word "selfish" is particularly damning, as it suggests a fundamental flaw in the character of the English people. This selfishness, Wordsworth implies, is at the root of many of the nation's problems, from political corruption to social inequality.

Furthermore, Wordsworth laments the loss of connection to nature and the spiritual realm. He believes that the relentless pursuit of industrial progress and material wealth has alienated people from the natural world and from their own inner selves. This alienation, in turn, has led to a sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction, which further contributes to the overall decline of English society. Wordsworth is not simply criticizing the economic policies of the time; he is making a broader critique of the values and priorities that underpin English culture.

Milton as the Ideal

Against this backdrop of national decline, Wordsworth presents Milton as a figure of unparalleled greatness. He invokes Milton as the embodiment of all the qualities that England lacks: virtue, strength, simplicity, and a deep connection to the divine. Wordsworth's Milton is not merely a poet but a moral and spiritual leader, a man of unwavering principle and profound wisdom. By calling upon Milton, Wordsworth is essentially appealing to a higher standard of human excellence, a standard that he believes England has fallen far short of.

Wordsworth describes Milton as having a "soul was like a Star, and dwelt apart." This suggests that Milton possessed a unique and exceptional spirit, one that set him apart from ordinary men. The image of the star evokes a sense of brilliance, purity, and transcendence. Milton, in Wordsworth's view, was not bound by the petty concerns and selfish desires that plague the rest of humanity. He lived on a higher plane, guided by his own inner light.

Moreover, Wordsworth emphasizes Milton's moral strength and unwavering commitment to justice. He describes Milton as having a "voice whose sound was like the sea," suggesting a powerful and commanding presence. This voice, Wordsworth implies, was used to defend the oppressed, to challenge injustice, and to speak truth to power. Milton, in other words, was not afraid to stand up for what he believed in, even in the face of adversity. This courage and conviction are precisely what Wordsworth believes England needs in 1802.

The Qualities Milton Could Restore

Wordsworth specifies the qualities that Milton could bring back to England, highlighting the virtues that he believes have been lost or diminished. These include inward happiness, simple manners, and freedom. These qualities are interconnected and represent a holistic vision of human flourishing. Wordsworth is not simply advocating for a return to a simpler way of life; he is calling for a deeper transformation of the human spirit.

"Inward happiness" suggests a state of contentment and fulfillment that is not dependent on external circumstances. This is in stark contrast to the materialistic pursuits that Wordsworth sees as dominating English society. True happiness, according to Wordsworth, comes from within, from a sense of purpose and connection to something greater than oneself. Milton, with his deep spirituality and unwavering faith, embodies this ideal of inward happiness.

"Simple manners" refers to a way of life that is characterized by humility, honesty, and a lack of pretension. Wordsworth believes that the English people have become too obsessed with appearances and social status, and that this has led to a decline in genuine human connection. Milton, with his austere lifestyle and unyielding principles, represents a rejection of these superficial values. By returning to simple manners, Wordsworth suggests, England can rediscover the importance of authenticity and sincerity.

Finally, "freedom" is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses both political and personal liberty. Wordsworth is not simply calling for political reform; he is advocating for a deeper sense of individual autonomy and self-determination. Milton, with his passionate defense of free thought and expression, embodies this ideal of freedom. By embracing freedom, Wordsworth suggests, England can unleash the creative potential of its people and create a more just and equitable society.

A Return to Virtue

Ultimately, Wordsworth believes that Milton could bring England back to a state of virtue. This virtue encompasses moral integrity, intellectual clarity, and spiritual depth. It is a state of being that is characterized by a commitment to truth, justice, and the common good. Wordsworth sees Milton as a beacon of virtue, a shining example of what it means to live a life of purpose and meaning. By emulating Milton's example, Wordsworth believes that England can overcome its current crisis and reclaim its former glory.

In conclusion, "London, 1802" is a powerful and moving plea for national renewal. Wordsworth's invocation of Milton is not merely a nostalgic longing for the past; it is a call to action, a challenge to the English people to embrace the values and virtues that made their nation great. By returning to these principles, Wordsworth believes that England can once again become a beacon of hope and inspiration for the world. So, guys, what do you think? Can England rise again?