description The Ready and Easy Way to Establish a Free Commonwealth Overview
The Ready and Easy Way to Establish a Free Commonwealth is a political pamphlet by the English poet and polemicist John Milton, published in 1660 as the restoration of the monarchy approached. Milton argues against restoring hereditary kingship and proposes a republican government led by a permanent council, with substantial authority distributed through local institutions. It is intended as a defense of the English Commonwealth and of government without a king.
help The Ready and Easy Way to Establish a Free Commonwealth FAQ
Why did Milton publish The Ready and Easy Way in 1660?
John Milton wrote it while the English Commonwealth was collapsing and the restoration of Charles II appeared increasingly likely. He tried to persuade readers that republican government could still be preserved without returning to hereditary monarchy.
What government did Milton propose instead of restoring the king?
Milton advocated a permanent republican council or senate made up of suitably qualified representatives. He believed local liberties could operate beneath that national structure without recreating kingship or an hereditary House of Lords.
Were there two editions of The Ready and Easy Way?
Yes. Milton issued a first edition in early 1660 and then revised and expanded the pamphlet as the political crisis worsened. The second edition responded to objections while the movement to restore Charles II gathered momentum.
Did Milton's pamphlet prevent the English Restoration?
No. Charles II returned to England in 1660, and the monarchy was restored despite Milton's warning. The pamphlet remains important because it records an uncompromising republican argument at the moment that republican rule was failing.
explore Explore More
Similar to The Ready and Easy Way to Establish a Free Commonwealth
ui.x_see_all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
