History & Politics
To Christina, Queen of Sweden, with Cromwell's Picture
Translated by William Cowper (1808) · From Latin and Italian Poems (Cowper)
Christina, maiden of heroic mien!
Star of the North! of northern stars the queen!
Behold, what wrinkles I have earn'd, and how
The iron cask still chafes my vet'ran brow,
While following fate's dark footsteps, I fulfill
The dictates of a hardy people's will.
But soften'd, in thy sight, my looks appear,
Not to all Queens or Kings alike severe.
Codex Note
Attributed to Milton in Cowper's edition; since recognised as Marvell's.
Cite this poem
MLA
Milton, John. “To Christina, Queen of Sweden, with Cromwell's Picture.” Translated by William Cowper. Poetry Codex, poetrycodex.com/poem/milton/96/.
Chicago
Milton, John. “To Christina, Queen of Sweden, with Cromwell's Picture.” Translated by William Cowper. Poetry Codex. https://poetrycodex.com/poem/milton/96/.
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