Final answer:
Milton's personal circumstances influenced the themes and characters in his epic poems, such as 'Paradise Lost.' The same can be seen in Homer's 'The Odyssey,' where his personal experiences shaped the narrative. Writers' personal circumstances contribute to the depth and meaning of their epic poems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Milton's personal circumstances were closely related to epic conventions in his poetry. One way this can be seen is in his epic poem, 'Paradise Lost,' where the protagonist, Satan, can be understood as a reflection of Milton's own political frustrations and feelings of defeat in his personal life. Additionally, Milton's blindness, which he experienced later in life, influenced the way he portrayed sight and perception in his epic poems, emphasizing the theme of knowledge and understanding.
Another example of a writer whose personal circumstances related to epic conventions is Homer. In Homer's 'The Odyssey,' the protagonist, Odysseus, embarks on a long journey to return home, which reflects Homer's own experiences as a blind bard, relying on memory and storytelling to navigate the world.
Overall, a writer's personal circumstances can shape the themes, characters, and the overall narrative of their epic poems, adding depth and meaning to their work.