Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, Volume 61, No. 378, April, 1847

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

23690

Title

Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, Volume 61, No. 378, April, 1847

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This is a collection of letters and speeches by Oliver Cromwell, the Lord High Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland, edited by Thomas Carlyle. The letters are written to various individuals, including Colonel Hammond, and discuss his views on politics, religion, and morality. Cromwell's writings reveal his strong sense of conviction and his commitment to his Puritan beliefs.

Summary up to 500 words

The collection of letters and speeches by Oliver Cromwell, edited by Thomas Carlyle, provides a unique insight into the thoughts and opinions of one of history's most complex figures. Cromwell's writings reveal his strong sense of conviction and commitment to his Puritan beliefs. He discusses his views on politics, religion, and morality, and his letters are filled with references to biblical passages and theological concepts. The collection also includes speeches by Cromwell, which demonstrate his skill as a public speaker and ability to inspire his audience. Throughout the collection, Carlyle's commentary provides context and analysis of Cromwell's writings, helping readers understand the historical context in which they were written. Cromwell was a genuine Puritan, and his letters and speeches reveal his fanatical sentiments that prompted the army to insist upon the king's death. The officers of the army had made certain overtures to the king, but ultimately decided to put him to death, citing their duty to call Charles Stuart to account for the blood he had shed against the Lord's cause and people. Cromwell's speeches are often criticized for being involved, spiritless, tortuous, and even purposely confused, but this is largely due to his indecision on whether to assume the title of king or not. He was anxious to gain time and deferred his answer, ultimately coming to the conclusion that the risk of unsettling the affections of the army was too great. The collection also includes Carlyle's commentary, which provides context and analysis of Cromwell's writings, helping readers understand the historical context in which they were written.

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4.2/5

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Categories

• History
• Periodicals