Question

How does Milton describe Shakespeare as the source of inspiration for all succeeding generations of poets?

Answer 1

Milton describes Shakespeare as the source of inspiration by stating that his words leave an ever-lasting impression on his readers. When one reads or listens to one line from a play or sonnet, they are awe-struck, and become spellbound and paralyzed with wonder. So they become marble statues in the tomb of Shakespeare, overcoming Time. These works even amaze future generations, passed on from the previous one.