Absalom and Achitophel
Absalom and Achitophel,an allegorical poem by Dryden , published 1681 .
A mock-biblical satire based on 2 Sam. 13–19, it deals with certain aspects of the Exclusion crisis, notably the intrigues of the earl of Shaftesbury and the ambition of the duke of Monmouth to replace James duke of York as Charles II's heir. Various public figures are represented under biblical names, notably Monmouth (Absalom), Shaftesbury (Achitophel), the duke of Buckingham (Zimri), Charles II (David), Oates (Corah), and Slingsby Bethel , sheriff of London (Shimei). The poem concludes with a long speech by David vigorously but paradoxically affirming Royalist principles, and asserting his determination to govern ruthlessly if he cannot do so mercifully.
In 1682 a second part appeared, mainly written by N. Tate . However, it contains 200 lines by Dryden , in which he attacks two literary and political enemies, ...
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