# Oliver Cromwell explained — Twenty Years After

> Chapter companion for Twenty Years After by Alexandre Dumas.

## What happens

Mordaunt reports to Cromwell after the battle, revealing that he killed his uncle Lord Winter. He requests the two French prisoners (d'Artagnan and Porthos) as his reward, which Cromwell grants. Cromwell reflects on the nature of his servants and his isolation.

## Themes in this chapter

### Power and Corruption

Cromwell's power is absolute, yet he is isolated and distrustful, reflecting the corrupting influence of authority.

### Revenge and Justice

Mordaunt's killing of his uncle Lord Winter is framed as both a personal vendetta and a twisted sense of justice for treason.

### Honor and Duty

Mordaunt's fanatical sense of duty to Cromwell contrasts with the honorable conduct of Charles Stuart and the French soldiers.

## Character check-ins

### Mordaunt

Reports to Cromwell, reveals he killed his uncle Lord Winter, and requests the French prisoners as his reward.

### Cromwell

Receives Mordaunt's report, grants his request for the prisoners, and reflects on his servants and loneliness.

### D'Artagnan

Mentioned as one of the French prisoners; he and Porthos are the object of Mordaunt's request.

### Porthos

Mentioned as one of the French prisoners alongside d'Artagnan.

### Lord de Winter

Referred to as Mordaunt's uncle, killed by Mordaunt during the battle.

### Charles Stuart

Captured after the battle; his dignified bearing is noted by Mordaunt.

## Key lines

> Mordaunt, you are a terrible servant.

Cromwell calls Mordaunt a fearsome and ruthless follower.

_Cromwell acknowledges Mordaunt's extreme loyalty and brutality._

> He has slain his uncle! ... Nobody serves me for nothing.

Cromwell realizes that even Mordaunt, who asks for no money, has a hidden agenda.

_Cromwell's reflection on the cost of power and the motives of his servants._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/twenty_years_after_se/chapters/lvii-oliver-cromwell
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/twenty_years_after_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/twenty_years_after_se/chapters