Milton's L'Allegro and Il Penseroso 1855

This 1855 illustration by John Milton, titled "Milton's L'Allegro and Il Penseroso," depicts a scene from his poem *Il Penseroso*. The artwork depicts a solitary tower atop a hill, a river flowing in the foreground, and a full moon setting in the background. The composition evokes a sense of solitude and contemplation, mirroring the poem's exploration of melancholy and philosophical thought. The illustration, now held in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, reflects the popularity of Milton's work throughout history, with its themes still resonating with modern audiences.