Oliver Cromwell

Oliver Cromwell: A Play by John Drinkwater is a historical drama that delves into the political and personal struggles of Oliver Cromwell during a tumultuous period in English history. The play opens in Cromwell's home in Ely where he is depicted as a man deeply concerned with the rights of the common people and the overreach of royal authority. The narrative progresses through key historical events including the resistance against the Earl of Bedford's claim to common lands and the broader conflict with King Charles I over issues such as ship money and the Star Chamber. Cromwell's character is portrayed as a man of principle driven by a sense of divine mission to protect the liberties of the English people. The play captures the tension between personal relationships and political duties as seen in Cromwell's interactions with his family and allies like John Hampden and Henry Ireton. The drama intensifies with the depiction of the English Civil War highlighting the Battle of Edgehill and the pivotal Battle of Naseby. Cromwell's evolution and military strategy are emphasized showcasing his rise from a local leader to a key figure in the national struggle against royal tyranny. Drinkwater's work is not just a recounting of historical events but an exploration of the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by those in power. The play concludes with a sense of unresolved tension reflecting the ongoing nature of the struggle for justice and governance. Through its rich dialogue and character development Oliver Cromwell: A Play offers a compelling portrayal of a critical period in English history marked by conflict sacrifice and the quest for freedom.