Oliver Cromwell and Kingless Britain



Overview

This course will explore the impact and legacy of Oliver Cromwell, who served as Lord Protector of England from 1653 to 1658. There are numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding Cromwell, including that he imposed strict Puritanism on society and banned Christmas. We will explore the reality of Cromwell’s career, tracing his rise from a humble county MP to the most powerful man in the country by way of the British Civil Wars. We will explore the realities of life during the Protectorate, both good and bad, and assess the legacy Cromwell has through to the present day.   

Programme details

Courses starts: 27 May 2026

Week 1: Cromwell the Politician and Soldier, 1628-1649

Our first session will explore the start of Cromwell’s career, beginning with his election to Parliament in 1628. Did he show early signs of political greatness, or was his later rise through the ranks the result of hard work? We will explore the evolution of his military career from the rank of Captain in August 1642 to being appointed a commander of the New Model Army in 1645 and one of the most important military figures this country has ever produced. The session will conclude with the decision to place King Charles I on trial in January 1649.

Week 2: Cromwell and the Execution of Charles I

The second session will focus on Cromwell’s role during the trial and execution of Charles I. He was one of the commissioners at the trial, and was the third person to sign and seal the King’s death warrant. How involved was he in the preparations for the trial, and did he have any influence over the actions of the other commissioners?

Week 3: Cromwell, the Council of State, and the Rump Parliament, 1649-1653

The third session will focus on the early years of the Commonwealth of England, during which Parliament ruled the country and the monarchy was abolished. Cromwell’s military actions during this period have become infamous, particularly his conduct in Ireland. We will explore how his military actions affected his reputation in Parliament, and why he became a viable candidate to be the figurehead leading the country.

Week 4: Cromwell as Lord Protector, 1653-1658

The fourth session will explore the years when Cromwell was the Lord Protector of England, a King in all but name. We will explore the legal and social changes which took place during those five years, and examine some of the myths surrounding Cromwell’s suppression of fun. We will ask whether he was a successful leader, and what legacies he has left behind.

Week 5: Cromwell the Second: The Death of Oliver and the Downfall of Richard, 1658-1660

The final session will explore what happened after Cromwell’s death in 1658, and why his son Richard was named as his successor to the post of Lord President. Without the military or political experience of his father, Richard’s tenure was significantly shorter and he was deposed in 1659, paving the way for the Restoration of the Monarchy in 1660. We will conclude by considering how Oliver Cromwell is remembered – or ignored – in modern society.  

Certification

Digital badge

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be issued with an official digital badge from the Department for Continuing Education, University of Oxford. After the course, you will receive an email with a link and instructions on how to download your digital badge. You will be able to add your badge to your email signature and share it on social media if you choose to do so. In order to be issued with your badge, you will need to have attended at least 80% of the course.

Fees

Description Costs
Course fee £180.00

Funding

If you are in receipt of a UK state benefit, you are a full-time student in the UK or a student on a low income, you may be eligible for a reduction of 50% of tuition fees. Please see the below link for full details:

Concessionary fees for short courses

Tutor

Dr Charlotte Parsonson-Young

Dr Charlotte Parsonson-Young has a PhD in English Civil War sequestration from Royal Holloway, University of London. She was a genealogist and social historian at Sticks Research Agency for over a decade, where she has worked on programmes such as 'Who Do You Think You Are?' and 'Tracing Your Roots'. She was an Honorary Visiting Fellow in English Local History at the University of Leicester before joining the Department for Continuing Education, where she teaches genealogy and early modern British history. She is also a Professor of History for Wake Forest University's study abroad programme in London, and the Vice Chair of the Cromwell Association.  

Course aims

Students will demonstrate understanding of the life and legacy of Oliver Cromwell.

Course objectives:

1. Learn the key events of Cromwell's life. 

2. Analyse the Protectorate using a combination of Parliamentary orders, letters, and petitions. 

3. Engage in debates about Cromwell's legacy. 

Teaching methods

The teaching methods for this course will be a combination of lecture and seminar, with students expected to engage with primary and secondary material provided to them either in class or in advance.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course students will:

1. Understand how Cromwell rose to prominence in the 1650s

2. Be able to engage with primary and secondary sources relating to his life

3. Engage in debates about Cromwell's life and the legacy he has in modern society

Assessment methods

This course is non-accredited, so there are no assessments. 

Application

Please use the 'Book now' button on this page. Alternatively, please complete an Enrolment form for short courses | Oxford University Department for Continuing Education

Level and demands

The Department's Weekly Classes are taught at first year undergraduate level.

Terms & conditions for applicants and students

Information on financial support