Andrew Marvell: A Literary Life

This book provides an accessible account of Andrew Marvells life (1621-1678) and the great events that reflected in his work, focusing on the modes and meanings of his art. It aims to reconstruct an embodied history of reading and writing, from the Hull Charterhouse to the coffee houses and print shops of Restoration London.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 19 March 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the life and times of the renowned poet and politician Andrew Marvell (1621-1678), offering a captivating account of his experiences and the significant events that shaped his work. While providing a thorough exploration of Marvell's artistic achievements, it also seeks to rectify the imbalance in recent biographies and critiques, which have primarily focused on his public and political life, neglecting his poetic ingenuity and potential. By transcending conventional notions of imitation and influence, the book aims to reconstruct an embodied history of reading and writing, encompassing the diverse physical and social contexts from the Hull Charterhouse to the coffee houses and print shops of Restoration London. With meticulous attention to detail, the book spans the entirety of Marvell's career, encompassing both his verse and prose works, while placing the pinnacle of his artistic prowess at the center of its vision.

Andrew Marvell, born in 1621, was a multifaceted individual who excelled in both poetry and politics. His life was marked by significant events that left an indelible mark on his work, and his writings eventually played a role in shaping the political landscape of his time. In this book, we aim to provide an accessible account of Marvell's life, encompassing his poetic achievements and the political context in which he operated.

Marvell's poetry is characterized by its intricate language, rich imagery, and profound insights into human nature. He was known for his ability to blend humor and seriousness, often using allegory and metaphor to convey his ideas. His works, such as "The Garden," "The Nymph's Reply to the Shepherd," and "To His Coy Mistress," are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and their exploration of themes such as love, nature, and mortality.

However, Marvell's life was not solely devoted to poetry. He was also a prominent politician who played a significant role in the English Civil Wars. Marvell was a supporter of the Parliamentarians and wrote extensively on political topics, advocating for democracy, liberty, and the rights of individuals. His political writings, such as "The Plain Dealer," "The Second Defence of the People of England," and "The Reformation of the Church of England," were instrumental in shaping public opinion and influencing the course of the war.

In this book, we will explore the various facets of Marvell's life, including his poetic genius, his political activism, and his personal relationships. We will examine the events that shaped his work, such as the Civil Wars, the Restoration, and the Glorious Revolution, and how they influenced his artistic vision. We will also consider the modes and meanings of Marvell's art, exploring how he used language and imagery to convey his ideas and create a sense of intimacy and connection with his readers.

Through our exploration of Marvell's life and work, we hope to provide a deeper understanding of his legacy and his place in the history of English literature and politics. We will also highlight the importance of his poetic invention and lyric possibility, which continue to inspire and influence writers and readers today.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and engaging account of the life and times of Andrew Marvell, a poet and politician who left an indelible mark on English literature and politics. By exploring his poetic genius, political activism, and personal relationships, we hope to shed light on his legacy and inspire a new generation of readers to appreciate his profound insights and lyrical beauty.

Weight: 392g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030592899
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021