The Hero Cromwell

Milton's poem "To the Lord General Cromwell" is more tribute than anything else. For a man that saved the parliamentary system, and England from a monarchy (for the time being). The poem runs down the accomplishments of the "Lord Protector" Cromwell, like the toppling of towers or walls, things that did little but stand in his way. He is a hero of their time, a celebrity without the taint of slandering paparazzi, lifted atop a pillar as "God's trop[y]" (6).

The first part of the poem describes Cromwell, and gives a description of the man's faith and fortitude. Then, once the hero has been given his heavenly attributes, Milton glories in his accomplishments. Charles I's beheading is the springboard for Cromwell's greatness, the beginning of his reign. Milton raves on, "And on the neck of crowned Fortune (Charles I) proud ... While Darwen stream with blood of Scotts imbrued ... And Dunbar field resounds thy praises loud" (7-8). The poet is basically giving the qualifications for Cromwell's position. Moreover, after reading the poem, I started to not only see a rhythm in the words, but also a form.

The poem starts by forming the head of Cromwell: his attributes. Then Milton moves on to the body: his accomplishments. Lastly a picture of the general's feet or boots crushing the animalistic enemy: the victory, the breaking of the chains. The poem forms a man, an organized man, and a general. Milton painted a picture with words, from head to foot.