Matthew Pearl's "The Dante Club" discusses John Milton's reputation as a premier religious poet, acknowledged by scholars in both English and American contexts. His works are esteemed, yet Pearl notes that Milton approached the themes of Heaven and Hell from a unique perspective, observing them from an external vantage point rather than experiencing them firsthand. This detachment allows Milton to explore profound spiritual themes while maintaining a level of safety and perspective in his exploration.

By writing about divine realms from above and below, Milton emphasizes a broader intellectual engagement with complex ideas rather than immersing himself in the tumultuous experiences of those realms. This method not only shapes his poetic voice but also distinguishes his work in the canon of religious poetry, marking him as a significant figure in literature while highlighting the contrasts between his perspective and that of other poets who may delve deeper into personal encounters with the profound themes of spirituality.