Absalom and Achitophel is a notable literary work by John Dryden. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts,
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How does Dryden use the Biblical and political allusions in “Absalom and Achitophel?”
“Absalom and Achitophel” (1681) is a political satire. John Dryden (1631-1700) uses Biblical stories to mock real politics. He avoids punishment this way. In the poem, King David means King Charles II. His son Absalom means the Duke of Monmouth. Achitophel means the Earl of Shaftesbury. These all are real people in Dryden’s time. The poem talks about the Exclusion Crisis. Let us examine how Dryden blends Bible stories with politics to make his points.
King and Son: Dryden shows King David as a good king. David means Charles II. He loves his son Absalom. But Absalom tries to take his crown. This is like the real story of Charles and Monmouth. Charles loved Monmouth. But Monmouth wanted power. Dryden shows Absalom’s ambition in the following line:
“Desire of greatness is a god-like sin.”
Dryden uses this Bible story to show pain in the father-son fight. It also shows that love is not enough. A good son should not fight his father. This point helps us feel the truth behind politics.
Bad Friend: Achitophel is the worst man in the poem. He means Shaftesbury. In the Bible, Achitophel was wise but tricky. In the poem, he tells Absalom to take the crown. He wants to rule the country himself. He uses Absalom for his own gain. The poet writes that Achitophel is:
“Resolv’d to ruin or to rule the state.”
This shows how some men use others to get power. Dryden shows that such leaders are not honest. They do not care for the country. They only want to win.
Fake Plot: Dryden discusses a “pageant show” or fake plan. He means the Popish Plot. This was a lie told by Titus Oates. He said that Catholics wanted to kill the king. Many believed him. But Dryden says it was not true. He says it was just to make people fear and hate. This fake fear helpedUnlock this study guide now