Cromwell: The Lord Protector (original 1973; edition 1996)

Well researched and enlightening book on a enigmatic and now a days obscure character. I knew little about Oliver Cromwell before I read this book, and from what I've read here he's not the dark almost evil character I thought he was. In many ways his reign paved the way for the English culture of today and eventually Canada's, in the diminution of royal powers and the movement to a more representitive legis- lature. ( )

Usually I can't wait to get to the next page in an Antonia Fraser book. This one, however did not engage me as much as I had expected or wished. A couple of things that were very well portrayed were Cromwell's military genius, and his true belief that his way of governing was what was best for the well being of all, often characteristic of the benevolent dictator ( )

Antonia Fraser can always be counted on for a good readable history book. This one is perhaps a little on the heavy side for ordinary readers but for those who are interested in British and Irish history, this is a must read. I read this book when I was in Ireland in 2004. Cromwell is of course akin to the anti Christ for the Irish and with good reason. It is clear though from this book and a couple of others I have read that his misdeeds are exaggerated even in the basic Irish history taught in schools. Cromwell is one of those historical characters who tends to be either whitewashed or blackened depending upon who is writing his history. That has changed and there are a number of good history books that carefully examine the evidence. ( )

3320. Cromwell The Lord Protector, by Antonia Fraser (read June 18, 2000) This book came out in 1974 and I have been tempted to read it ever since, and finally did. I had much liked the author's biography of Mary, Queen of Scots, which I read in March of 1970, and thought this book would be as good, even tho about a less appealing subject. Frankly, I was disappointed that the author was as favorable to Cromwell as she is. But aside from that it is a good book and well worth reading. The account of what happened to Cromwell's body in 1660 (2 years after his death) is alone worth reading the book to find out. If you don't know, I won't spoil the book, but urge you to read it to find out. Tho I suppose there are simpler ways to find out. ( )

Excellent! ( )