“Nereus’ Prophecy of Troy” by Horace (13 B.C.E)

Horace’s poetry has taken a number of forms through its translation over the centuries from Latin to English. This 2003 translation of Horace’s ode “Nereus’ Prophecy of Troy” provides a primary example of a Horatian ode. It pairs particularly well with Marvell’s ode due to their shared themes of war, conquest, and predestination.

“Satire III” by John Donne (1633)

John Donne is perhaps the archetypal metaphysical poet. Marvell’s ode shares more in common with traditional and classical forms of poetry than with metaphysical poetry. However, comparing “An Horatian Ode […]” to this satire by Donne highlights Marvell’s more abstract, metaphysical concerns with justice and whether might makes right.

“Sonnet 16: Cromwell, our chief of men, who through a cloud” by John Milton (1673)

John Milton is the most significant English literary figure connected with Cromwell. Milton worked with Marvell in 1657 as Latin secretary in Cromwell’s Council of State, and later went on to become one of the world’s most celebrated poets. This poem, written in 1652, praises Cromwell and encourages him to conquer. Where Marvell’s ode could be interpreted as subversive and sympathetic towards the king, Milton’s sonnet demonstrates clear preference for Cromwell.

“Absalom and Achitophel” by John Dryden (1681)

John Dryden’s “Absalom and Achitophel” reimagines the biblical story of Absalom’s rebellion against King David. Dryden presents the story as an allegory and satire of England’s contemporary political situation and Charles II’s attempts to exclude members of his family from their presumptive thrones. Dryden’s work shares many similarities with Marvell’s earlier “An Horatian Ode […],” including the use of heightened language and romantic narrative structures. Dryden uses these techniques to satirical ends, however, and his political allegiances are much clearer.

“Ode X, An Irish ‘God Save the Queen’” by Aubrey Thomas De Vere (1869)

Marvell’s “Horatian Ode” states that “the Irish are asham’d / To see themselves in one year tame’d” (Lines 73-74). This poem, by Irish poet Aubrey Thomas De Vere, presents a perspective from the Irish royalists that “Fought last for Charles” (Line 29). De Vere’s short depiction of the Irish defending their homeland form Cromwell complicates Marvell’s presentation.