Question

In what context does gray mention milton and cromwell in his poem ?

Answer 1

Having discussed the less-known people of the countryside of England, Gray mentions two famous names of English history i.e. Milton and Cromwell. He thinks that had a person lying there been well educated he might have written poetry like John Milton.

Similarly, if one of those persons had been provided with a chance he might have fought for his country during a civil war just like Cromwell. Eventually, he concludes that their restriction to the fate and chance of becoming famous, also, helped them restrict their capacity to do crimes.