Dryden’s Use of Irony in “Absalom and Achitophel.”

Answer

Analyse Dryden’s use of irony in “Absalom and Achitophel.”

“Absalom and Achitophel” (1681) is a famous satirical and ironical poem by John Dryden (1631-1700). Irony means incongruity between expectation and achievement. It uses biblical characters and stories to comment on contemporary English politics. The poem allegorizes Absalom’s rebellion against King David. It represents the Duke of Monmouth’s revolt against King Charles II.

Irony in the Portrayal of Characters: Dryden’s “Absalom and Achitophel” employs deep irony in depicting the Duke of Monmouth and the Earl of Shaftesbury. Absalom (Duke of Monmouth) is shown as a charming, beloved son. It masks his true ambition and recklessness. Dreyden says,

Youth, beauty, graceful action, seldom fail;

But common interest always will prevail:

Dryden highlights Absalom’s charming qualities, but the irony is that these qualities mask his true ambition and recklessness. Achitophel (Earl of Shaftesbury) is praised as a wise advisor, but Dryden’s irony reveals his intelligence as corrupt and deceitful. He says,

Of these the false Achitophel was first:

A name to all succeeding ages curst.

This portrayal exposes their flaws. Absalom’s superficial charm and Achitophel’s poisonous counsel. It highlights the dangers of misplaced trust and the destructive nature of rebellion.

The People’s Naivety: The people love Absalom because he will bring them freedom and protect their rights. But Dryden shows the irony. They do not see that Absalom’s rebellion could cause more chaos and pain. By supporting him, they risk their freedoms for a power-hungry leader who does not honestly care about them.

Irony in the Use of Biblical References: Dryden’s poem “Absalom and Achitophel” uses the Bible to comment on politics. He compares King Charles II to King David. He flatters the king but also hints at his flaws. Dryden praises the king-

David’s mildness manag’d it so well,

The bad found no occasion to rebel.

This creates irony, as Dryden seems to praise while noting mistakes. The story of Absalom’s rebellion shows betrayal and ambition by mirroring Dryden’s political times. By using a well-known biblical story, Dryden adds irony. It shows bad behavior through a holy tale.

Irony in the Poetic Style: Dryden’s poetic style in “Absalom and Achitophel” is another source of irony. The poem is written in heroic couplets. This is a form often used for serious and grand subjects. But, Dryden uses this high style to describe politicians’ paltry and selfish actions. Dryden writes-

Plots, true or false, are necessary things,

To raise up commonwealths and ruin kings.

Plots, whether they are real or fake, are essential because they can build new countries or destroy kings. This line uses fancy words to highlight how silly these tricks are. 

Irony in the Moral Lessons: Dryden delivers moral lessons with a heavy dose of irony throughout the poem. He presents the rebellion as a misguided and foolish attempt while ironically praising the rebels’ bravery and determination. This double-edged praise damages their actions. It shows them as reckless and dangerous rather than noble. His ironic tone criticizes rather than to praise.

In conclusion, Dryden uses irony to show the characters’ true intentions. The Ironies point out the silly and contradictory things they do and believe. This literary tool makes his satire more effective and powerful.