1. Early Life: Marvell was born in Winestead, Yorkshire, England, to a Catholic family. His father was a lawyer who died when Marvell was a child, leaving his mother to raise him. 2. Education: Marvell studied at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he became interested in poetry and literature. 3. Career: Marvell began his literary career as a tutor and translator before becoming a member of Parliament for Hull in 1659. He was known for his wit and satire, often using humor to criticize the political and social issues of his time. 4. Major Works: Some of Marvell's most famous poems include "To His Coy Mistress," "The Definition of Love," and "An Horatian Ode upon Cromwell's Return from Ireland." 5. Influence: Marvell's poetry has had a significant impact on English literature, influencing writers such as John Donne and Alexander Pope. His use of metaphor, imagery, and satire continues to inspire poets and readers today. 6. Personal Life: Marvell married a young woman named Mary Doughty in 1650, but little is known about their personal life due to the lack of surviving documents. 7. Death: Marvell died on August 16, 1678, after serving as a member of Parliament for over 20 years. His legacy has endured, and he remains one of the most celebrated poets in English literature.
By A.C. Benson · First published 1905 · Genre: Biography, Literary Criticism, Non-fiction