Absalom and Achitophel

Definition

Absalom and Achitophel is a satirical poem written by John Dryden, first published in 1681. The poem uses the biblical story of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David, as an allegory for the political turmoil in England during the late 17th century, particularly reflecting on the conflicts surrounding the monarchy and the political factions of the time. Through its use of characters and events from the Bible, the poem critiques political figures and reflects on themes such as betrayal, ambition, and loyalty.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The poem is divided into multiple sections that depict various aspects of Absalom's rebellion and its consequences.
2. Dryden employs vivid imagery and rich language to bring to life the political tensions of his time, making historical figures stand in for contemporary politicians.
3. Absalom represents the rebellious son who seeks power, while Achitophel symbolizes treachery and manipulation in political affairs.
4. The work illustrates Dryden's strong belief in the divine right of kings, contrasting loyalty to monarchy with the dangers of rebellion.
5. Absalom and Achitophel had a significant impact on political poetry, paving the way for later works that used satire to comment on social and political issues.

Review Questions

• How does Dryden's use of biblical characters in Absalom and Achitophel serve to enhance the poem's satirical critique of contemporary politics?
  • Dryden's use of biblical characters like Absalom and Achitophel creates a powerful allegorical framework that allows him to critique contemporary politics through familiar stories. By drawing parallels between these figures and modern political leaders, Dryden highlights themes of ambition and betrayal, making his commentary more relatable to readers. The biblical setting also lends an air of authority to his satire, as it suggests that these conflicts are not only relevant to his time but have been recurring throughout history.
• Discuss how Absalom and Achitophel reflects the principles of Neoclassicism in its structure and style.
  • Absalom and Achitophel exemplifies Neoclassical principles through its structured form and adherence to poetic conventions. Dryden employs heroic couplets, a traditional form favored by Neoclassical poets, which adds to the poem's rhythmic quality. The use of clear moral messages and rational discourse aligns with Neoclassical ideals, emphasizing order and reason. Additionally, Dryden's focus on political themes shows how art can reflect societal values while adhering to classical standards of beauty and form.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Absalom and Achitophel on English literature and its influence on subsequent political satire.
  • Absalom and Achitophel had a profound long-term impact on English literature, particularly in shaping the genre of political satire. Dryden's blend of historical allegory with sharp commentary influenced later writers who sought to address political issues through humor and wit. The poem established a model for using literary techniques to critique power dynamics, which can be seen in works by authors like Jonathan Swift and Alexander Pope. Furthermore, its enduring relevance demonstrates how literature can serve as a mirror to society’s complexities, encouraging critical thought about governance and authority.

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 deeper meanings and themes.

Neoclassicism:

An artistic movement that drew inspiration from classical art and literature, emphasizing order, reason, and adherence to established forms and rules.