Absalom and Achitophel

Definition

Absalom and Achitophel is a satirical poem written by John Dryden in 1681 that uses biblical allegory to comment on contemporary political events in England, particularly the political turmoil during the reign of King Charles II. The poem portrays the rebellion of Absalom against his father David, paralleling it with the political factions of Dryden's time, notably the conflict between royalists and those who opposed the monarchy, showcasing Dryden's mastery of political satire and poetic innovation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Absalom and Achitophel was published anonymously in 1681 and quickly gained attention for its sharp critique of political figures, particularly the Duke of Monmouth.
2. The poem is notable for its use of heroic couplets, which became a defining feature of Dryden's style and influenced future poets.
3. Dryden's work draws direct parallels between biblical characters and contemporary political figures, allowing readers to engage with current events through familiar narratives.
4. The poem's structure includes characters representing real historical figures, such as Absalom representing Monmouth and Achitophel symbolizing advisors who sought to undermine the monarchy.
5. Absalom and Achitophel solidified Dryden's reputation as a leading poet of his time and exemplifies the intersection of literature and politics during the Restoration period.

Review Questions

• How does Dryden use the characters of Absalom and Achitophel to reflect the political climate of his time?
  • In Absalom and Achitophel, Dryden employs biblical characters to mirror the political tensions in 17th-century England. Absalom represents the rebellious Duke of Monmouth, while Achitophel symbolizes the manipulative advisors seeking to challenge King Charles II's authority. By intertwining these figures with their biblical counterparts, Dryden effectively critiques contemporary political factions and illustrates the dangers of rebellion against established monarchy.
• Discuss how Dryden's use of allegory enhances the themes presented in Absalom and Achitophel.
  • Dryden's use of allegory in Absalom and Achitophel deepens the poem's exploration of political ambition and betrayal. By aligning real historical figures with their biblical analogs, Dryden encourages readers to draw parallels between past narratives and current political dilemmas. This layered approach allows for a richer understanding of human motivations in politics and highlights the cyclical nature of power struggles throughout history.
• Evaluate the impact that Absalom and Achitophel had on Restoration poetry and subsequent literary works.
  • Absalom and Achitophel significantly impacted Restoration poetry by establishing a model for blending political satire with poetic innovation. Dryden's masterful use of heroic couplets set a new standard for poetic form, influencing later poets who sought to comment on societal issues through verse. Additionally, its successful fusion of literature and politics inspired future writers to engage with their contemporary contexts more boldly, paving the way for works that addressed social injustices and governance in subsequent eras.

Related terms

Satire: A genre of literature that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or society.

Allegory: A narrative technique in which characters and events represent abstract ideas or moral qualities, often used to convey complex messages about politics or society.

Restoration Poetry: Poetry produced during the Restoration period in England, characterized by a focus on themes such as love, politics, and social commentary, often reflecting the complex dynamics of the time.