John Milton Sr.

John Milton Sr. was a prominent Scrivener and Moneylender in London, best known as the father of the famous English poet John Milton. He was a member of the Worshipful Company of Scriveners and worked closely with other notable figures of the time, including William Shakespeare and Ben Jonson. His profession brought him into contact with various influential individuals, such as King James I of England and Queen Elizabeth I of England. As a respected member of London society, he was also acquainted with Inigo Jones, the renowned English architect.

● Early Life

John Milton Sr. was born in London in 1562 to a family of Yeomans. His early life was marked by a strong connection to the Church of England, with his family attending services at St. Stephen Walbrook. He received his education at St Paul's School, London, where he developed skills in Latin and Greek. During his youth, he was exposed to the works of William Tyndale and John Foxe, which would later influence his son's writing. As a young man, he worked as an Apprentice to a Scrivener in London, learning the skills that would serve him well in his future career.

● Career

As a Scrivener, John Milton Sr. worked with various clients, including Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and the Lord Chamberlain's Men. He was responsible for preparing and witnessing documents, such as Wills and Deeds, for his clients. His profession brought him into contact with notable figures of the time, including Richard Burbage and Henry Condell. He was also involved in the English Reformation, working with Puritans such as John Knox and John Calvin. His connections to the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and the Lord Chamberlain's Men allowed him to meet Playwrights like Christopher Marlowe and Thomas Middleton.

● Family and Personal Life

John Milton Sr. married Sara Jeffrey in 1600, and they had three children together: John Milton, Christopher Milton, and Anne Milton. He was a devoted father and provided his children with a good education, encouraging their interest in Literature and Music. His son John Milton would go on to become a famous English poet, authoring works such as Paradise Lost and Samson Agonistes. The family attended services at All Hallows, Bread Street, where they were acquainted with other notable families, including the Family of William Shakespeare. John Milton Sr.'s personal life was also influenced by his connections to Oxford University and Cambridge University, where his son would later study.

● Legacy

John Milton Sr.'s legacy is closely tied to that of his son, John Milton. As a Scrivener and Moneylender, he played an important role in London society, working with notable figures of the time. His connections to the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and the Lord Chamberlain's Men helped to shape the English theatre scene. He was also a supporter of the English Reformation, working with Puritans to promote their cause. His influence can be seen in the works of his son, who was inspired by the Classical literature and Biblical studies that his father encouraged. The family's connections to Inigo Jones and Christopher Wren also reflect their interest in Architecture and Design.

● Death and Burial

John Milton Sr. died in 1647, at the age of 85, and was buried in St. Giles Cripplegate. His funeral was attended by many notable figures of the time, including John Dryden and Andrew Marvell. His legacy lived on through his son, John Milton, who continued to write and publish works until his own death in 1674. The family's connections to London and the English literary scene ensured that John Milton Sr.'s memory would be remembered for generations to come, alongside other notable figures such as Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift. His burial in St. Giles Cripplegate reflects his connections to the Church of England and the Puritan community. Category:English Scriveners