Episode 8: Cromwell in His Own Words

1666 and All That

Oliver Cromwell is one of the giants of English history, a man who believed himself to be called by God to transform the political and moral structures of the nation, and to extend his writ, by whatever means necessary, into Ireland and Scotland. Yet his inner life remains an enigma, obscured by the intensity of his religious fervour and by the brevity of the constitutional revolution he set in motion.

In their second interview with eminent Cromwell scholar John Morrill, Miranda and Paul get a fascinating insight into the workings of Cromwell's mind - showing us a man with a deep respect for the principles that the Civil Wars had been all about, but constantly wrestling with the responsibilities of power.

John Morrill is uniquely well qualifed to act as our guide. As well as finishing an eagerly awaited new biography, he is general editor of a vast new undertaking, 'The Letters, Writings and Speeches of Oliver Cromwell', published in three volumes by OUP. He tells us how the volumes were put together and explains how the collection gives scholars and general readers a whole new perspective on Cromwell's life and times.

'1666 and All That' is presented by Paul Lay and Miranda Malins. The producer is Hugh Costello. Original music by George Taylor. The episode is mixed by Alfie Thompson.

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