God's Englishman

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A true classic - Rated
It is a testament to Christopher Hill's skill not only as a historian but also as a writer that this book remains so fresh, more than thirty years after it was first published. The title, "God's Englishman", is still I think the pithiest and most apt description of Oliver Cromwell I have yet heard. A splendid first chapter sets the scene admirably, and while Hill's Marxism certainly influences his views of early modern England it by no means prejudices his analysis.

There follows a series of tightly written chapters breaking down Cromwell's life into different parts: fenland farmer and humble backbencher; stalwart of the good old cause and the New Model Army; key figure of the Commonwealth; and finally Lord Protector. Hill's knowledge of the sources is first rate and exhaustive - after multiple readings the only error I have come across is a misrepresentation of Cromwell's school teacher, Thomas Beard, who was hardly the devout puritan Hill makes out. What really brings these chapters alive is the skilful way in which Hill interlaces analysis with Cromwell's own letters and speeches. He is particularly good on Cromwell's troubled conscience as the Commonwealth turned into a Protectorship.

However, Hill's best is saved until last. In two phenomenal chapters Hill brings all his considerable knowledge of the period to bear on the relationships God's Englishman had with God and England. A detailed understanding of the workings of providence is vital to understanding Cromwell; only John Morrill and Blair Worden have really followed Hill's lead on this. Cromwell's sense of nation too, of England as a new Israel, underlies all of his most important speeches to parliament, and occurs many times in his surviving letters. Hill's survey is spot on.

To conclude, I cannot recommend this book enough. For the student fresh to the period it is an ideal place to start; for the more knowledgeable reader it is a treasure trove of insight and quotations. ANyone with a serious interest in the Lord Protector will certainly already own a copy of this book.