The Oxford Companion to English Literature | 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,...
[The entire page is 149 words long]
Join eNotes
The above is a free excerpt. Get total access to this content with the:
