Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

“Panegyric to My Lord Protector” is a poem by Edmund Waller, an English poet and politician who lived in the 17th century. The poem is a tribute to Oliver Cromwell, who served as Lord Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1653 until his death in 1658.

The poem begins with Waller addressing Cromwell as “my Lord” and acknowledging his many accomplishments, such as defeating the Scots and Irish in battle and restoring order to England after the Civil War. Waller goes on to praise Cromwell’s leadership qualities, describing him as “wise, valiant, just, and pious.”

Throughout the poem, Waller employs a variety of rhetorical techniques, such as metaphor, allusion, and hyperbole, to emphasize Cromwell’s greatness and to persuade his audience of the Lord Protector’s virtues. For example, he compares Cromwell to a “mighty oak” that “braves / The raging tempests, and the rising waves,” suggesting that Cromwell is steadfast and unshakeable in the face of adversity.

Waller also uses the poem to express his own political views, calling for the establishment of a “free commonwealth” and warning against the dangers of tyranny and corruption. However, he does so in a subtle and tactful manner, without directly criticizing Cromwell or his regime.

The poem concludes with Waller expressing his hope that Cromwell will continue to lead England and its people, and that he will be remembered as a great and noble leader in the years to come.

Overall, “Panegyric to My Lord Protector” is a powerful and persuasive tribute to one of England’s most important political figures. Through his use of language and rhetoric, Waller is able to capture Cromwell’s achievements and to convey his own vision for the future of England.

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