Absalom and Achitophel by John Dryden
Prof. Suresh M Hosamani
Department of English
K.S.S Arts ,Commerce & Science College
Gadag
➤ Basic Bibliographic Information
Title: Absalom and Achitophel
Author: John Dryden
Year Published: 1681 (Part I), Part II (by Nahum Tate with Dryden's contribution in
1682)
Genre: Political allegory, Satirical poem
Form: Heroic couplets (rhymed iambic pentameter)
✍️ Context & Background
Historical Background:
Written during the Exclusion Crisis (1679–1681), when there was national debate over
whether James, Duke of York (a Catholic), should be excluded from succession to the
English throne. This political crisis threatened the stability of King Charles II's reign.
Allegorical Characters:
o Absalom = James Scott, Duke of Monmouth (Charles II’s illegitimate but
Protestant son)
o Achitophel = Anthony Ashley Cooper, 1st Earl of Shaftesbury (leader of the
Exclusionists)
o David = King Charles II
o Zimri = George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham
Dryden uses biblical allegory to explore themes of rebellion, legitimacy, and political
manipulation. His poem supports the monarchy and condemns rebellion.
📜 Summary of the Poem
Part I Summary (1681)
Introduction:
The poem opens by drawing parallels between biblical Israel and 17th-century
England. King David is beloved but troubled by the rebellion of his son, Absalom.
David and Absalom:
David loves his son Absalom, though he is illegitimate. David wishes to give Absalom
every favor but stops short of granting him the throne.
Achitophel’s Role:
Achitophel persuades Absalom to claim the throne, exploiting his ambition.
Achitophel presents rebellion as a noble cause, calling for reform and defense of
Protestant liberty.
Satire and Character Sketches:
Dryden satirizes many political figures of the time by giving them biblical names and
mocking their flaws. For instance, Zimri is portrayed as absurd and foolish.
David’s Response:
David (Charles II) ultimately speaks, upholding the divine right of kings and the
dangers of political unrest. He advocates patience and order over civil strife.
Conclusion:
The poem ends with David forgiving Absalom but punishing Achitophel and other
rebels, advocating for political moderation and royal authority.
Part II Summary (1682, by Nahum Tate with Dryden’s Contribution)
Focuses on the trial of Shaftesbury and the continued defense of monarchy.
More character sketches and defenses of the king’s loyal supporters.
The poem emphasizes that divine justice supports the king's cause.
🔍 Major Themes
1. Divine Right of Kings
Dryden supports the theory that monarchs are appointed by God and rebellion is
sinful.
2. Legitimacy and Succession
The poem critiques illegitimate claims to the throne, paralleling Monmouth’s
ambitions.
3. Political Manipulation
Achitophel is a manipulative, Machiavellian figure who distorts truth for power.
4. Satire and Moral Corruption
Dryden uses satire to expose the moral flaws of politicians, showcasing ambition,
hypocrisy, and fanaticism.
5. Religion and Politics
The poem is deeply engaged with the religious tensions of the time (Protestant vs
Catholic), illustrating how religion is used to fuel political agendas.
🔠 Style & Literary Devices
Device Explanation & Example
Heroic Rhymed pairs of iambic pentameter (e.g., “What cannot praise effect in mighty
couplets minds / When flattery soothes, and when ambition blinds”).
Allegory Biblical figures stand for contemporary political actors.
Satire Dryden exposes and ridicules real politicians through poetic wit.
Irony Used to critique characters pretending to serve the public good.
Imagery Vivid images of corruption, rebellion, divine order.
Critical Analysis & Interpretation
➤ Dryden’s Political Position:
Dryden clearly supports the monarchy and criticizes the Whig party’s push to exclude James.
The poem argues for stability over revolution.
➤ Poetic Mastery:
Dryden’s control of the heroic couplet format shows his poetic precision. His use of balanced
lines, satire, and dramatic irony elevates the poem’s rhetorical force.
➤ Satirical Portrayals:
Each character is deeply embedded in political satire. Zimri (Villiers) is remembered for the
famous line:
"A man so various that he seemed to be / Not one, but all mankind’s epitome."
