Execution of Charles I.

By Andrew Marvell (1621–1678)

Charles I. was executed at Whitehall on Jan. 30, 1649, and was buried on the same night in St. George’s Chapel, Windsor.

From “An Horation Ode”

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That Charles himself might chase

To Carisbrook’s narrow case;

That thence the royal actor borne,

The tragic scaffold might adorn.

While round the armed bands

Did clap their bloody hands,

He nothing common did or mean

Upon that memorable scene;

But with his keener eye

The axe’s edge did try:

Nor called the gods, with vulgar spite,

To vindicate his helpless right;

But bowed his comely head

Down, as upon a bed.