Trying to Understand Marvell's Political and Historical Legacy

[astrum]

Few deny Marvell's remarkable talent as a poet; "Upon Appleton House" and "To His Coy Mistress", for example, are exceptional both in form and content.

Yet, some believe that Marvell had a considerable influence on England's history, namely during the Civil War and Restoration Era.

From what I understand, however, Marvell never wholly took sides and was somewhat of a political moderate. Given his centrism, I would guess that it must have been difficult for him to significantly effect political or social change. That is, he seems to be somewhat of a tempering (or moderating) political figure.


Nevertheless, he is regarded as influential in shaping England's political history and political thought.

Why is that? I'm still trying to understand his legacy.

[OrphanPip]

"Centrism" isn't quite the right term for Marvell. He had been tutor to Cromwell's son, and was Milton's assistant after he went blind, so he was closely linked with the parliamentarian side. After Cromwell's death Marvell, much like Milton, became increasingly disenfranchised with the state of the protectorate, but as a member of parliament leading up to, and after, the Restoration he continued to be a supporter of limited monarchical power. During the Restoration he continued in his roles as MP and government appointments. He was one of the public voices, largely in pamphlets, of the emerging Whig faction, which opposed Catholics and supported increased parliamentary power.

The main reason Marvell avoided the threat of execution was that he had not been involved with the execution of Charles I, and he only go involved in politics near the end of the Commonwealth. He was also a member of the Convention Parliament, so he had a sort of immunity as one of the people involved with bringing about the Restoration.

I wouldn't consider him a major influence on the political history of England though, he was a minor player.

[astrum]

So, other than being a great poet, why is Marvell such a celebrated figure in British history?

He certainly receives more acclaim than most other writers of his day. Why is that?