In the twin poems L’ Allegro and IL penseroso Milton seeks to offer not just a vision of two moods but the two extreme sentiments of an extreme age. Do you agree? Give a reasoned answer. [British Poetry (2018-19) Assignment 2]

Yes, I agree that in the twin poems "L'Allegro" and "Il Penseroso," Milton seeks to offer not just a vision of two moods, but the two extreme sentiments of an extreme age. Both poems reflect the contrasts and tensions of the early 17th century, which was marked by political upheaval, social change, and religious conflicts.

In "L'Allegro," Milton presents a vision of a joyful and lively world, where the pleasures of life are celebrated and enjoyed. The poem is filled with images of mirth, music, dancing, and revelry, and it encourages the reader to embrace the beauty and joy of the world. This mood reflects the optimism and enthusiasm of the Renaissance, which was characterized by a belief in the power of human reason, scientific inquiry, and artistic creativity.

In contrast, "Il Penseroso" presents a vision of a contemplative and introspective world, where the solitary individual seeks to find meaning and purpose in life. The poem is filled with images of darkness, silence, and solitude, and it encourages the reader to reflect on the deeper questions of life. This mood reflects the pessimism and skepticism of the early 17th century, which was marked by political instability, religious conflicts, and social unrest.

In both poems, Milton seeks to capture the contrasting moods and sentiments of an age that was marked by both hope and despair, optimism and pessimism, joy and sorrow. By presenting two extreme moods, he offers a vision of the world that is both complex and multifaceted, and he encourages the reader to embrace the richness and diversity of life.

Moreover, the poems can be seen as reflecting Milton's own inner struggles, as he grappled with the challenges and contradictions of his own life and times. In his attempt to reconcile the conflicting impulses of his age and his own psyche, Milton created two masterful poems that continue to speak to readers across the centuries.

In conclusion, "L'Allegro" and "Il Penseroso" can be seen as reflections of the two extreme sentiments of an extreme age. Through these two poems, Milton offers a complex and nuanced vision of the world that captures the joys and sorrows, the hopes and fears, of his own life and times.