A Treatise of Civil Power facts for kids

A Treatise of Civil Power is a book written by John Milton in February 1659. In this book, Milton shares his ideas about what heresy means and why people should have free thought. He tried to convince the new English Parliament to agree with his views and support more freedom for individuals.

Understanding A Treatise of Civil Power

This important book explores the idea that people should be free to choose their own religious beliefs. It argues that the government should not control what people think or believe about religion. Milton wanted everyone to have the right to follow their own conscience.

Why John Milton Wrote This Book

John Milton published A Treatise of Civil Power in Ecclesiastical Causes in February 1659. This was after Richard Cromwell became the leader and a new Parliament was formed. Milton wrote the book because he was worried. He saw that the government at the time, known as the Interregnum, was becoming less tolerant. He feared they might limit people's free speech, including his own. So, he wrote to Cromwell and Parliament, hoping to change their minds.

Milton's Ideas on Heresy and Belief

Milton knew that the word "heresy" was often used to insult people who had different religious ideas. However, he believed that "heresy" simply meant "the choice or following of any opinion, good or bad, in religion or any other learning." He thought that a person's beliefs come from "the inward persuasive motions of his spirit." This means he believed people are guided by their own inner thoughts and feelings, not by outside rules.

The book also talks a lot about agreements and promises between people. Milton believed that religious groups should be formed by people who willingly join together. He felt that beliefs should come from a true church, made up of people who have freely agreed to be part of it.

Key Ideas in Milton's Work

One of Milton's main beliefs was that a person's own conscience is more important than anything else. He used the word "heresy" in a neutral way. For him, choosing your own beliefs was an important part of being a true Christian.

Experts have different views on the book's style. John Shawcross said that this work, like some of Milton's later writings, combines "submission and revolution." This means it shows both respect for authority and a call for change. Thomas Corns thought the language in the book was calm compared to Milton's earlier, more powerful writings. However, Kevin Hart wrote that Milton's strong argument against the idea of a government-controlled church is still one of the most powerful pieces of writing in the English language.