DANBURY, CONN. — By holding the work of author John Milton up to the light, African American literati can identify with it both as inspirational and liberating, according to “Preaching the Gospel of Black Revolt” author Dr. Reginald Wilburn.

In recognition of Black History Month, Wilburn will discuss his book, “Preaching the Gospel of Black Revolt: Appropriating Milton in Early African American Studies” at Western Connecticut State University. The discussion will begin at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015, in Warner Hall on the university’s Midtown campus, 181 White St. in Danbury. This Black History Month event is sponsored by the WCSU English Department and the Office of the Assistant Dean of Student Affairs. It is free and the public is invited.

“Dr. Wilburn is fiercely dynamic and remarkably entertaining,” said WCSU Associate Professor of English Dr. Don Gagnon, who organized the event. “He shows that Milton’s ‘Paradise Lost’ provides a revolutionary model for these early black writers in the United States that derives from the same Christian doctrine and dogma into which they are being educated.”

In addition to discussing his book, research and findings, Wilburn will talk about the broad, lasting reach of Milton’s work and its connection to today’s politics.

“He has an understanding of the vital necessity of literacy, not only at the time for slaves, but also now when literacy challenges abound,” Gagnon said.

Gagnon hopes that what people will take from the event is that literature represents history, and that understanding and interpreting a range of perspectives are crucial in today’s political atmosphere.

“All literature is important to all history,” Gagnon said. “Literature is an expression of who we are at the time – history told by the people who lived it.”

For more information, contact the Office of University Relations at (203) 837-8486.

Western Connecticut State University offers outstanding faculty in a range of quality academic programs. Our diverse university community provides students an enriching and supportive environment that takes advantage of the unique cultural offerings of Western Connecticut and New York. Our vision: To be an affordable public university with the characteristics of New England’s best small private universities.