The 'Nativity Ode' is less about the celebration of Christ and more about the superiority of a Protestant English spirit. Analyse the poem in the light of this statement. ( MEG 101 ) ( CHRIST'S NATIVITY AND LYCIDAS )

The 'Nativity Ode' is a poem written by John Milton, which celebrates the birth of Christ and reflects on its significance for humanity. While the poem does contain elements of English patriotism, I do not believe that the poem is primarily concerned with the superiority of a Protestant English spirit.

Firstly, the poem begins with a focus on the birth of Christ and the significance of this event for all of humanity. In the opening stanzas, Milton describes the scene of the Nativity, with the shepherds, angels, and the birth of the Christ child. He emphasizes the wonder and awe inspired by this event, and how it marks the beginning of a new era for mankind. The focus on Christ and his message of love and salvation is a central theme throughout the poem.

Secondly, while the poem does contain references to England and its Protestant heritage, these references are not central to the poem's overall message. For example, in the fourth stanza, Milton writes:

"But peaceful was the night

Wherein the Prince of light

His reign of peace upon the earth began:

The winds with wonder whist,

Smoothly the waters kist,

Whispering new joys to the mild ocean,

Who now hath quite forgot to rave,"

Here, Milton uses imagery drawn from the English countryside to describe the peaceful scene of Christ's birth. However, this imagery serves to emphasize the universal nature of Christ's message, rather than to celebrate England in particular.

Finally, while it is true that Milton was a passionate advocate for Protestantism and English liberty, this does not detract from the religious and spiritual significance of the 'Nativity Ode'. Rather, his belief in the importance of individual conscience and the rejection of religious dogma is evident throughout the poem, as he celebrates the birth of Christ as a moment of profound spiritual transformation and rebirth.

In conclusion, while the 'Nativity Ode' does contain elements of English patriotism and Protestantism, these elements do not detract from the poem's overall message of the significance of Christ's birth for all of humanity. Rather, the poem celebrates the universal message of Christ's love and salvation, which transcends national and religious boundaries.