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Commonwealth Age in the History of English Literature

The Commonwealth Age in the history of English literature, also known as the Puritan Interregnum
or the Interregnum period, refers to a significant era in English history marked by political upheaval,
social change, and cultural transformation. Lasting from 1649 to 1660, this period saw the rise and
fall of the Commonwealth, a republic led by Oliver Cromwell and his supporters following the
execution of King Charles I. The literature of this time reflects the ideological shifts, religious fervor,
and tumultuous events that characterized the Commonwealth Age.

Historical Context:
To understand the literature of the Commonwealth Age, it's essential to grasp the historical
backdrop. The period began with the English Civil War (1642-1651), a conflict between
Parliamentarians, led by Oliver Cromwell, and Royalists, loyal to King Charles I. The war culminated
in the execution of Charles I in 1649 and the establishment of the Commonwealth under Cromwell's
leadership. The Commonwealth was a time of strict Puritan rule, characterized by the suppression of
royalist sympathizers, the enforcement of moral and religious codes, and the rise of religious sects
challenging mainstream Anglicanism.

Themes in Literature:
1. Religion and Politics: The intertwining of religion and politics was a central theme during the
Commonwealth Age. Puritan ideals dominated the literary landscape, with writers advocating
for moral purity, social reform, and religious piety. Many works supported the Commonwealth
government and its efforts to create a godly society, while others criticized its authoritarian
tendencies.
2. Moral and Social Commentary: Literature of this period often served as a platform for moral
and social commentary. Writers examined issues such as corruption, hypocrisy, and injustice
within society, offering critiques of both the monarchy and the Commonwealth government.
Satirical works, such as Samuel Butler's "Hudibras," mocked the excesses and absurdities of
the ruling regime.
3. Individualism vs. Conformity: The tension between individualism and conformity was a
recurring theme in Commonwealth literature. While Puritanism emphasized personal piety
and moral discipline, it also imposed strict standards of behavior and belief. Writers grappled
with questions of personal liberty, conscience, and the role of the individual within society.
4. Nature and the Divine: Some writers explored themes of nature and the divine, drawing
inspiration from the natural world as a reflection of God's glory. Poets like John Milton
celebrated the beauty and majesty of creation while contemplating profound theological
questions.
Major Writers and Works:
1. John Milton: Perhaps the most renowned literary figure of the Commonwealth Age, John
Milton's works embodied the spirit of the times. His epic poem "Paradise Lost" (1667)

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explores themes of rebellion, redemption, and the nature of evil, drawing on biblical narratives
and classical mythology. Milton's political tracts, such as "The Tenure of Kings and
Magistrates" (1649), defended the execution of Charles I and advocated for republican
government.
2. Andrew Marvell: Marvell's poetry combined political allegory with metaphysical themes,
reflecting the uncertainty and turmoil of the Commonwealth era. His poem "Upon Appleton
House" (written c. 1651-1653) explores the relationship between nature, society, and the
divine, while his "Horatian Ode upon Cromwell's Return from Ireland" (1650) praises
Cromwell's military victories.
3. John Bunyan: Bunyan's allegorical works, such as "The Pilgrim's Progress" (1678), became
enduring classics of English literature. Written during the later years of the Commonwealth,
"The Pilgrim's Progress" allegorizes the Christian journey of redemption, drawing on Puritan
theology and imagery.
4. Thomas Browne: Browne's prose works, including "Religio Medici" (1643) and "Hydriotaphia,
Urn Burial" (1658), reflect his wide-ranging intellectual interests and religious skepticism.
Browne's writing explores questions of faith, mortality, and the mysteries of existence, offering
a counterpoint to the prevailing religious orthodoxy of his time.
Literary Forms and Styles:
1. Poetry: Poetry flourished during the Commonwealth Age, with writers exploring a range of
themes and styles. The metaphysical poetry of John Donne and George Herbert continued to
influence poets like Andrew Marvell, who combined intricate conceits with political allegory.
Religious poetry, hymns, and devotional works were also popular, reflecting the piety of the
age.
2. Prose: Prose writing encompassed a variety of genres, including political tracts, religious
treatises, and philosophical essays. Writers like Milton and Bunyan used prose to articulate
their political and theological beliefs, while others, such as Thomas Browne, engaged in
scientific inquiry and philosophical speculation.
3. Drama: Although drama declined in popularity during the Commonwealth due to Puritan
opposition to theater, some playwrights continued to produce works for private performance
or clandestine venues. The Restoration period that followed saw a resurgence of drama with
the reopening of theaters and the emergence of new genres, such as the comedy of manners.

Legacy and Impact:

The literature of the Commonwealth Age left a lasting impact on English letters, shaping subsequent
developments in poetry, prose, and political thought. John Milton's "Paradise Lost" remains one of
the greatest epic poems in the English language, while Bunyan's "The Pilgrim's Progress" continues to
be read and studied as a Christian allegory. The period also laid the groundwork for the
Enlightenment and the emergence of liberal democracy, as writers grappled with questions of
political authority, individual rights, and the role of religion in society.

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Political and Religious Context:
The Commonwealth Age was marked by the ascendancy of Puritanism, a strict form of Protestantism
that emphasized personal piety, moral discipline, and the authority of scripture. Puritans sought to
purify the Church of England of what they saw as remnants of Catholicism and to create a society
governed by biblical principles. This religious fervor intersected with political upheaval, as
Parliamentarians and Puritans challenged the authority of the monarchy and sought to establish a
republican government based on the rule of law and the consent of the governed.

The execution of King Charles I in 1649 and the subsequent abolition of the monarchy marked a
radical departure from centuries of monarchical rule in England. The Commonwealth government,
led by Oliver Cromwell, sought to create a godly commonwealth governed by a balance of religious
and secular authority. However, Cromwell's regime was marked by authoritarian tendencies,
including censorship, religious persecution, and the suppression of dissent. Despite these challenges,
the Commonwealth era witnessed significant advancements in religious freedom and political
representation, laying the groundwork for future developments in English governance.

Literary Response to Political and Religious Turmoil:

The literature of the Commonwealth Age reflected the ideological conflicts and social upheaval of the
time. Writers grappled with questions of political authority, religious liberty, and the nature of the
good society. Many works served as propaganda for the Commonwealth government, promoting its
ideals of republican government, religious reform, and social justice. Others offered critiques of the
regime, questioning its legitimacy and challenging its authority.

John Milton, in particular, played a central role in shaping the literary response to the
Commonwealth era. His political tracts, such as "The Tenure of Kings and Magistrates" and "The
Ready and Easy Way to Establish a Free Commonwealth," defended the execution of Charles I and
argued for the establishment of a republic based on the principles of liberty and equality. Milton's
epic poem "Paradise Lost" explored themes of rebellion, redemption, and the nature of evil, drawing
on biblical narratives and classical mythology to create a powerful allegory of political and spiritual
struggle.

Other writers, such as Andrew Marvell and Thomas Browne, offered more nuanced perspectives on
the political and religious turmoil of the time. Marvell's poetry combined political allegory with
metaphysical themes, while Browne's prose works explored questions of faith, mortality, and the
mysteries of existence. Both writers grappled with the moral and existential implications of living in a
society torn apart by religious and political conflict.

Literary Innovation and Experimentation:

Despite the constraints of censorship and political repression, the Commonwealth era witnessed
significant literary innovation and experimentation. Writers experimented with new forms and styles,
pushing the boundaries of poetic and prose expression. The metaphysical poetry of John Donne and

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George Herbert continued to influence writers like Andrew Marvell, who combined intricate conceits
with political allegory to create works of enduring beauty and complexity.

Prose writers also made important contributions to English literature during this period. Thomas
Browne's "Religio Medici" and "Hydriotaphia, Urn Burial" exemplified the spirit of intellectual inquiry
and religious skepticism that characterized the age. Browne's prose style was marked by its richness,
complexity, and erudition, reflecting his wide-ranging interests and deep engagement with the
philosophical and scientific debates of his time.

Legacy and Influence:

The literature of the Commonwealth Age left a lasting impact on English letters, shaping subsequent
developments in poetry, prose, and political thought. The works of John Milton, Andrew Marvell,
and Thomas Browne continue to be studied and admired for their beauty, depth, and complexity.
Milton's "Paradise Lost" remains one of the greatest epic poems in the English language, while
Marvell's poetry and Browne's prose writings continue to inspire readers with their insight,
intelligence, and imagination.

In addition to its aesthetic achievements, the literature of the Commonwealth Age played a crucial
role in shaping the intellectual and political currents of the Enlightenment. Writers grappled with
questions of political authority, religious liberty, and the nature of the good society, laying the
groundwork for future developments in English governance and political thought. The
Commonwealth era thus represents a pivotal moment in the history of English literature, marking the
emergence of new forms, styles, and ideas that continue to resonate with readers today.

In conclusion, the Commonwealth Age was a pivotal period in the history of English literature,
characterized by political upheaval, religious fervor, and cultural innovation. Writers of this era
navigated the tumultuous currents of their time, producing works that reflect the ideological tensions
and existential concerns of a society in transition. From the epic poetry of John Milton to the
allegorical vision of John Bunyan, the literature of the Commonwealth Age continues to captivate
readers with its depth, complexity, and enduring relevance.

Characteristics of Commonwealth age in the History of English

Literature
The Commonwealth Age in the history of English literature, spanning from 1649 to 1660, was a
period of significant political, social, and cultural upheaval in England. This era, also known as the
Puritan Interregnum or the Interregnum period, was marked by the establishment of the
Commonwealth, a republican government led by Oliver Cromwell following the execution of King
Charles I. The literature of this time reflects the ideological shifts, religious fervor, and tumultuous
events that characterized the Commonwealth Age. Here, we'll explore the key characteristics of this
period in English literature.

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1. Religious Piety and Moral Rigidity:
• Puritanism, a strict form of Protestantism, dominated the cultural and literary landscape during
the Commonwealth Age.
• Literature of this period often reflects the Puritan emphasis on personal piety, moral
discipline, and the pursuit of spiritual purity.
• Writers frequently incorporated religious themes and imagery into their works, advocating for
a society governed by biblical principles and moral rectitude.

2. Political Allegory and Satire:

• The literature of the Commonwealth Age frequently employed political allegory and satire to
comment on contemporary events and social issues.
• Writers used allegorical narratives and symbolic imagery to critique the political establishment
and to express dissent against the ruling regime.
• Satirical works, such as Samuel Butler's "Hudibras," mocked the excesses and absurdities of
both the monarchy and the Commonwealth government, offering biting critiques of political
hypocrisy and corruption.

3. Moral and Social Commentary:

• Literature of this period often served as a platform for moral and social commentary, reflecting
the ideological and cultural tensions of the time.
• Writers explored issues such as corruption, injustice, and social inequality, offering critiques of
both the monarchy and the Commonwealth government.
• Works like John Milton's political tracts and Andrew Marvell's poetry engaged with questions
of political authority, religious liberty, and the nature of the good society, contributing to
ongoing debates about governance and social reform.

4. Theological Exploration and Debate:

• The literature of the Commonwealth Age reflected the intense theological debates and
religious fervor of the time.
• Writers grappled with questions of faith, salvation, and divine providence, exploring complex
theological concepts and doctrines in their works.
• John Milton's epic poem "Paradise Lost" and John Bunyan's allegorical work "The Pilgrim's
Progress" exemplify the theological depth and complexity of Commonwealth literature,
drawing on biblical narratives and Christian symbolism to explore profound questions of
human existence and divine purpose.

5. Political and Social Instability:

• The Commonwealth Age was characterized by political and social instability, as England
grappled with the aftermath of the English Civil War and the establishment of the
Commonwealth government.
• Literature of this period often reflects the uncertainty and turmoil of the time, with writers
grappling with questions of political authority, legitimacy, and the nature of the social contract.
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• Andrew Marvell's poetry, for example, combines political allegory with metaphysical themes,
reflecting the existential anxieties and moral ambiguities of the Commonwealth era.

6. Intellectual Inquiry and Exploration:

• Despite the political and social constraints of the time, the Commonwealth Age was marked by
a spirit of intellectual inquiry and exploration.
• Writers like Thomas Browne engaged in philosophical speculation and scientific inquiry,
producing works that reflected the era's fascination with the natural world and the mysteries of
existence.
• Browne's prose works, such as "Religio Medici" and "Hydriotaphia, Urn Burial," exemplify the
intellectual richness and curiosity of Commonwealth literature, blending theological reflection
with scientific observation and literary experimentation.

7. Literary Forms and Styles:

• Poetry, prose, and drama all flourished during the Commonwealth Age, with writers
experimenting with new forms, styles, and genres.
• The metaphysical poetry of John Donne and George Herbert continued to influence poets
like Andrew Marvell, who combined intricate conceits with political allegory and religious
imagery.
• Prose writers like John Milton and Thomas Browne produced works of immense literary and
philosophical complexity, grappling with profound questions of faith, mortality, and the nature
of reality.

8. Legacy and Influence:

• The literature of the Commonwealth Age left a lasting impact on English letters, shaping
subsequent developments in poetry, prose, and political thought.
• Writers like John Milton, Andrew Marvell, and John Bunyan are still widely studied and
admired for their contributions to English literature, with works like "Paradise Lost" and "The
Pilgrim's Progress" continuing to be read and studied as classics of English literature.
• The Commonwealth era also laid the groundwork for future developments in political
philosophy and governance, as writers grappled with questions of political authority, religious
liberty, and the role of the individual within society.

In conclusion, the Commonwealth Age was a period of profound political, social, and cultural
transformation in England, marked by religious fervor, political upheaval, and intellectual inquiry.
The literature of this period reflects the ideological tensions and existential anxieties of the time, with
writers grappling with questions of faith, morality, and the nature of the good society. Despite the
constraints of censorship and political repression, Commonwealth writers produced works of
immense literary and philosophical richness, laying the groundwork for future developments in
English literature and political thought.

Notable Figures in the Commonwealth

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The Commonwealth Age, spanning from 1649 to 1660, was a period of significant political, social,
and cultural upheaval in England. During this time, several notable figures emerged who played key
roles in shaping the literature, politics, and society of the era. Here, we'll explore some of the most
prominent figures of the Commonwealth Age and their contributions to English history and
literature.

1. Oliver Cromwell:
• As the leader of the Parliamentarian forces during the English Civil War, Cromwell played a
central role in the overthrow of King Charles I and the establishment of the Commonwealth.
• Cromwell served as Lord Protector of the Commonwealth from 1653 until his death in 1658,
wielding significant political and military power during this period.
• While primarily known for his political and military leadership, Cromwell was also a patron of
the arts and literature, supporting writers and intellectuals who aligned with his Puritan beliefs.

2. John Milton:
• One of the most renowned literary figures of the Commonwealth Age, Milton was a poet,
polemicist, and political theorist.
• His epic poem "Paradise Lost," published in 1667, is considered one of the greatest works of
English literature and explores themes of rebellion, redemption, and the nature of evil.
• Milton's political tracts, such as "The Tenure of Kings and Magistrates" (1649) and "The Ready
and Easy Way to Establish a Free Commonwealth" (1660), defended the execution of Charles
I and advocated for republican government.
• Milton's works exemplify the intellectual and literary achievements of the Commonwealth era,
blending political engagement with theological reflection and poetic innovation.

3. Andrew Marvell:
• A poet and politician, Marvell is best known for his lyric poetry and political satires.
• His poem "Upon Appleton House" (written c. 1651-1653) reflects his interest in nature,
society, and the divine, while his "Horatian Ode upon Cromwell's Return from Ireland" (1650)
celebrates Cromwell's military victories.
• Marvell's poetry combines political allegory with metaphysical themes, reflecting the
uncertainty and turmoil of the Commonwealth era.

4. John Bunyan:
• Bunyan was a prolific writer and preacher best known for his allegorical work "The Pilgrim's
Progress," published in 1678.
• Written during the later years of the Commonwealth, "The Pilgrim's Progress" allegorizes the
Christian journey of redemption, drawing on Puritan theology and imagery.
• Bunyan's work became immensely popular and influential, shaping Protestant spirituality and
English literature for centuries to come.

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5. Thomas Browne:
• Browne was a physician and writer whose prose works explored a wide range of topics,
including religion, science, and the nature of existence.
• His best-known works include "Religio Medici" (1643), a spiritual autobiography exploring his
religious beliefs, and "Hydriotaphia, Urn Burial" (1658), a meditation on mortality and the
rituals of burial.
• Browne's prose style was marked by its richness, complexity, and erudition, reflecting his wide-
ranging intellectual interests and religious skepticism.

6. Samuel Butler:
• Butler was a poet and satirist best known for his mock-heroic poem "Hudibras," published in
three parts between 1663 and 1678.
• "Hudibras" satirizes the political and religious conflicts of the Commonwealth era, lampooning
the Puritans and their opponents with biting wit and humor.
• Butler's work remains a classic of English literature and a testament to the satirical spirit of the
Commonwealth age.

7. John Milton's daughters:

• While John Milton himself is a towering figure of the period, his daughters also played a
significant role in preserving his legacy.
• Anne, Mary, and Deborah Milton were responsible for transcribing and publishing their
father's works after his death, ensuring that his literary and political contributions would be
remembered and celebrated for generations to come.

8. Other Figures:
• In addition to these prominent figures, the Commonwealth Age saw the emergence of many
other writers, intellectuals, and political leaders who contributed to the cultural and literary
landscape of the era.
• Figures such as John Owen, a theologian and religious leader; Lucy Hutchinson, a writer and
translator; and Algernon Sidney, a political theorist and republican philosopher, all played
important roles in shaping the intellectual and political currents of the Commonwealth era.

In conclusion, the Commonwealth Age was a period of great intellectual, political, and cultural
ferment in England, marked by the emergence of several notable figures who left an indelible mark
on English history and literature. From poets and writers like John Milton and Andrew Marvell to
political leaders like Oliver Cromwell and John Bunyan, these figures embodied the spirit of the age,
grappling with questions of faith, politics, and the nature of the good society. Their works continue to
be studied and admired today, providing insight into the tumultuous events and complex ideas of the
Commonwealth era.

Famous works in the Commonwealth age

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The Commonwealth Age, spanning from 1649 to 1660, produced several famous works that
continue to be studied and admired for their literary, philosophical, and political significance. Despite
the political and social upheaval of the time, writers of this period produced works of enduring value
that reflect the ideological tensions and cultural ferment of the era. Here, we'll explore some of the
most famous works of the Commonwealth age:

1. "Paradise Lost" by John Milton (1667):

• Milton's epic poem "Paradise Lost" is perhaps the most famous work of the Commonwealth
era.
• The poem explores the biblical story of the fall of man, recounting the rebellion of Satan and
the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden.
• "Paradise Lost" is celebrated for its grandeur of language, its complex characters, and its
exploration of profound theological and philosophical themes.
• Milton's portrayal of Satan as a tragic hero and his exploration of the nature of free will and
divine providence have made "Paradise Lost" a perennially fascinating work.

2. "The Pilgrim's Progress" by John Bunyan (1678):

• Bunyan's allegorical work "The Pilgrim's Progress" is another classic of the Commonwealth era.
• The book follows the journey of Christian, an everyman figure, as he travels from the City of
Destruction to the Celestial City, encountering various trials and temptations along the way.
• "The Pilgrim's Progress" is celebrated for its vivid imagery, its moral and spiritual depth, and its
profound insights into the Christian life.
• Bunyan's work became immensely popular and influential, shaping Protestant spirituality and
English literature for centuries to come.

3. "Hudibras" by Samuel Butler (1663-1678):

• Butler's mock-heroic poem "Hudibras" is a satirical masterpiece that lampoons the political
and religious conflicts of the Commonwealth era.
• The poem follows the adventures of the eponymous Sir Hudibras, a pompous and foolish
knight, as he embarks on a series of misadventures.
• "Hudibras" is celebrated for its sharp wit, its biting satire, and its humorous portrayal of Puritan
hypocrisy and folly.
• Butler's work remains a classic of English literature and a testament to the satirical spirit of the
Commonwealth age.

4. "Areopagitica" by John Milton (1644):

• "Areopagitica" is a prose work by Milton that is considered one of the most eloquent defenses
of freedom of speech and expression in the English language.
• In the work, Milton argues against the licensing and censorship of books, advocating for the
free and open exchange of ideas.
• "Areopagitica" is celebrated for its passionate rhetoric, its erudite arguments, and its enduring
relevance to debates about freedom of speech and press.

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5. "Eikon Basilike" (1649):
• "Eikon Basilike," meaning "The King's Portrait," is a work attributed to King Charles I, though
its authorship is disputed.
• The book is a purported autobiography of Charles I, written during his imprisonment and
intended to garner sympathy for his cause.
• "Eikon Basilike" is celebrated for its eloquent prose, its portrayal of Charles as a martyr and
saint, and its influence on royalist sentiment during the English Civil War and Commonwealth
era.

6. "Religio Medici" by Thomas Browne (1643):

• Browne's "Religio Medici," or "The Religion of a Physician," is a spiritual autobiography and
philosophical treatise that explores Browne's religious beliefs and philosophical inquiries.
• The work reflects Browne's wide-ranging intellectual interests and religious skepticism, as well
as his belief in the compatibility of reason and faith.
• "Religio Medici" is celebrated for its eloquent prose, its profound reflections on the mysteries
of existence, and its influence on later thinkers and writers.

7. "Upon Appleton House" by Andrew Marvell (c. 1651-1653):

• Marvell's poem "Upon Appleton House" is a pastoral meditation on nature, society, and the
divine.
• The poem reflects Marvell's interest in landscape and environment, as well as his engagement
with political and theological themes.
• "Upon Appleton House" is celebrated for its lyrical beauty, its intricate imagery, and its
reflection of the tensions and uncertainties of the Commonwealth era.

8. "The Tenure of Kings and Magistrates" by John Milton (1649):

• Milton's political tract "The Tenure of Kings and Magistrates" is a defense of the execution of
Charles I and an argument for the legitimacy of regicide.
• In the work, Milton contends that tyrannical rulers forfeit their right to rule and that the people
have a right to resist and overthrow oppressive governments.
• "The Tenure of Kings and Magistrates" is celebrated for its passionate advocacy of republican
government, its defense of popular sovereignty, and its influence on political thought during
the Commonwealth era.

These works, among others, represent the richness, complexity, and diversity of literature produced
during the Commonwealth age. They continue to be studied and admired for their literary,
philosophical, and political significance, offering insight into the cultural and intellectual currents of
the era.

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