Andrew Marvell

The biography traces the subject's upbringing and education in rural settings and at university, then follows his roles as poet, civil servant during the Commonwealth, and long-serving member of Parliament. It examines his lyrical and satirical writing—both pastoral poems and political tracts—his friendship and professional association with contemporary writers, extensive correspondence with constituents, and public conduct marked by discretion and wit. The author considers the elusiveness of the man's private character, assesses his literary style that bridges earlier lyric traditions and later sensibilities, and reviews final years, political interventions, and the publication and reception of his collected works.