Andrew Marvell
Andrew Marvell
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Andrew Marvell was a renowned English metaphysical poet, satirist, and politician who lived during the 17th century. He is commonly known as Andrew Marvelli.
Birth and Death Dates
Marvell was born on August 31, 1621, in Winestead, Yorkshire, England, to Thomas Marvell, a clergyman, and his wife. Unfortunately, there is no record of the exact date of his death; however, it is believed that he passed away sometime between October 1677 and September 1680.
Nationality and Profession(s)
As an English poet, Marvell was deeply rooted in the country's literary and cultural landscape. His professions varied throughout his life: he served as a clergyman, a diplomat, and even a Member of Parliament (MP) for Hull, Yorkshire.
Early Life and Background
Marvell's early life is shrouded in mystery. Little is known about his childhood, but it is believed that he attended Hull Grammar School before pursuing higher education at Trinity College, Cambridge. During his time at Cambridge, Marvell was exposed to the works of prominent metaphysical poets like John Donne and George Herbert, which would later influence his writing style.
Marvell's family was of modest means, and as a young man, he faced financial struggles. To support himself, he became a tutor for various families in the London area before eventually securing a position at the house of Sir Thomas Fairfax, where he met John Milton and other prominent literary figures of the time.
Major Accomplishments
Marvell's accomplishments are multifaceted:
Poetry: He is best known for his collection of poems, _Miscellaneous Poems_, which includes some of his most celebrated works like "To His Coy Mistress" and "The Garden".
Diplomacy: As a diplomat, Marvell traveled extensively throughout Europe on behalf of the English government. During this time, he gained valuable insight into European politics and culture.
Politics: As an MP for Hull, Marvell played a significant role in shaping England's foreign policy during the 1650s.Notable Works or Actions
Some of Marvell's most notable works include:
"To His Coy Mistress" (1681): A poem that explores themes of love, mortality, and the transience of life.
"The Garden" (1681): A meditation on the joys of nature and the human condition.
"An Horatian Ode upon Cromwell's Return from Ireland" (1650): A satirical poem that critiques Oliver Cromwell's military campaigns in Ireland.
Impact and Legacy
Marvell's impact extends far beyond his own lifetime:
Influence on literature: His poetry has influenced countless writers, including Alexander Pope, William Wordsworth, and T.S. Eliot.
Shaping of English politics: As a diplomat and politician, Marvell played a significant role in shaping England's foreign policy during the 17th century.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Marvell is widely quoted and remembered for his:
Poetic mastery: His use of language, imagery, and metaphor has inspired generations of poets.
Intellectual curiosity: As a diplomat, politician, and poet, Marvell embodied the Renaissance ideal of a well-rounded individual.
* Timeless themes: His poetry continues to resonate with readers today, exploring universal themes like love, mortality, and the human condition.
Andrew Marvell's legacy is a testament to his enduring impact on English literature and politics. His poetry, diplomacy, and politics continue to inspire and influence artists, writers, and politicians to this day.
Quotes by Andrew Marvell
Andrew Marvell's insights on:
Twas beyond a mortal’s share To wander solitary there: Two paradises ’twere in one To live in paradise alone.
Self-preservation, nature’s first great law, all the creatures, except man, doth awe.
Had we but world enough, and time, This coyness Lady were no crime. We would sit down, and think which way To walk, and pass our long love’s day. Thou by the Indian Ganges’side Shouldst rubies find: I by the tide Of Humber would complain. I would Love you ten years before the flood.
My love is of a birth as rare As ’tis, for object, strange and high; It was begotten by Despair Upon Impossibility.
How vainly men themselves amaze To win the palm, the oak, or bays; And their uncessant labours see Crown’d from some single herb or tree. Whose short and narrow verged shade Does prudently their toils upbraid; While all flow’rs and all trees do close To weave the garlands of repose.
See how the Orient dew, Shed from the bosom of the morn Into the blowing roses, Yet careless of its mansion new; For the clear region where ’twas born Round in its self encloses: And in its little globes extent, Frames as it can its native element.
