The rise of the reputation of Andrew Marvell (1621–1678) has been gradual but steady. Marvell, for the most part a reserved man, graduated from Cambridge and traveled for years before becoming a tutor to the daughter of the British General Sir Thomas Fairfax. Some of the poems written during this time reveal Marvell's sharp intellect and keen wit. His primary role in literary history would have been no more than that of secretary to the author John Milton had it not been for the publication of Marvell's poems, three years after his death, by a woman believed to be his housekeeper. At first, many of Marvell's verses appear light and satiric, but beneath this surface one finds serious observations and ideas and at times even an element of darkness. Another side of his character was revealed in public life, for besides writing poetry Marvell represented his hometown of Hull in the British Parliament. He worked diligently as a member of Parliament from 1659 until his death. His letters sent from the Halls of Parliament back to his constituents are noteworthy for their historical value.

Marvell is also considered a Metaphysical poet because of his preoccupation with death, physical love, and the intellect.