"I had rather have a plain, russet-coated Captain, that knows what he fights for, and loves what he knows, than that which you call a Gentle-man and is nothing else"

Oliver Cromwell's quote, "I had rather have a plain, russet-coated Captain, that knows what he fights for, and enjoys what he understands, than that which you call a Gentle-man and is nothing else," shows his choice for substance and character over superficial status and look. In this statement, Cromwell, a military and political leader throughout the English Civil War, expresses his ridicule for the traditional aristocracy, which he likely considered as preoccupied with titles and external looks instead of real devotion and purpose.

The "plain, russet-coated Captain" represents an individual of modest origins, potentially with no worthy family tree or insignia, who has a clear sense of function and a strong commitment to his causes. The option of "russet-coated" is substantial; it describes simple, homespun clothing made from coarse fabric, frequently worn by the typical people. Cromwell values these qualities-- purpose and devotion-- obviously attributing greater military and ethical worth to them than to mere breeding or social status.

On the other hand, Cromwell's referral to "that which you call a Gentle-man and is nothing else" slams those individuals who might belong to the gentry or upper classes but do not have the substantive qualities, such as understanding, dedication, and authentic love for their cause. These so-called gentlemen might be well-dressed, having the superficial characteristics of nobility, but are lacking deeper nobility of character. They are reduced to "nothing else" since, in Cromwell's eyes, without function or love for what they do, their social position is useless.

Cromwell's point of view aligns with his broader contempt for the hierarchy and corruption he perceived in the standard English class system, favoring meritocratic principles. This belief was reflective of the times, as the English Civil War represented a battle in between Royalist forces and those looking for reform and higher democratic governance. His quote underscores an ethos of valuing benefit, purpose, and real commitment over inherited opportunity, a style that resonates in different historic and contemporary contexts.