Cromwell's Head

Cromwell's Head by Fitzgibbons, Jonathan. hardcover edition. ISBN: 9781905615384.

Oliver Cromwells magnificent funeral in 1658 was a regal affair, witnessed by thousands and drawing on all the trappings of state. Yet less than three years later his corpse was removed from Westminster Abbey and executed at Tyburn. This gruesome ceremony launched Cromwells head on three centuries of extraordinary adventures, from a traitors pole by Westminster Hall to an exhibition in Londons Bond Street, the probings of cranial detectives to the peace of a Cambridge college. "Cromwells Head" tells the story of the heads remarkable journey, blending gallows humour with a compelling portrait of the great parliamentarian in life. It explores the many talents and intriguing contradictions - country gentleman and farmer, brilliant military commander and cavalry leader, loving father and stern Puritan - and reveals a passionate politician who sought to be remembered warts and all by those he came to serve.