What, according to Milton, is the purpose of poetry? to provide guidance to spread knowledge to help readers grow spiritually to maintain society’s value system
I am pretty sure that the second option represented above is most suitable for this question. So, according to Milton's viewpoint the purpose of poetry is to spread knowledge, especially this purpose is being revealed in his famous work ''Paradise Lost'' in which he shows readers his will to express glory to God. Do hope it will help you in your homework.
