Absalom and Achitophel Poem Analysis
"Absalom and Achitophel" is a satirical, political poem by John Dryden, written in 1681. The poem is a thinly veiled allegory that uses biblical figures and events to comment on the political and religious controversies in England during Dryden's time. Specifically, it addresses the Exclusion Crisis, a period of intense political conflict over whether the Catholic James, Duke of York (the future James II), should be excluded from the succession to the English throne.
Structure: "Absalom and Achitophel" is written in heroic couplets, which are pairs of rhymed iambic pentameter lines. This form lends the poem a sense of formality, grandeur, and rhetorical power, making it well-suited for political satire and commentary. The poem is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on the political machinations of the Exclusion Crisis, and the second part dealing with the consequences of the crisis and the broader implications for English society.
Imagery and Language: Dryden employs biblical imagery and language to create parallels between the historical events and figures of his time and their biblical counterparts. The poem's title characters, Absalom and Achitophel, represent James Scott, Duke of Monmouth (the illegitimate son of Charles II), and the Earl of Shaftesbury, respectively. By using biblical imagery and language, Dryden elevates the political issues at stake to a higher moral and religious plane, while also satirizing the ambitions and motivations of the key players in the Exclusion Crisis.
Themes:
Political Allegory and Satire: The primary theme of "Absalom and Achitophel" is the use of political allegory and satire to comment on the Exclusion Crisis and the broader political and religious controversies of the time. Through the use of biblical figures and events, Dryden critiques the political machinations of the Whigs (the political party advocating for the exclusion of the Duke of York) and their leader, the Earl of Shaftesbury, while also defending the monarchy and the divine right of kings.
Factionalism and Division: The poem explores the theme of factionalism and the dangers of political and religious divisions within society. Dryden portrays the Exclusion Crisis as a result of factionalism, ambition, and personal animosities rather than genuine concerns for the well-being of the nation.
Religion and Politics: "Absalom and Achitophel" also addresses the complex relationship between religion and politics in 17th-century England. Dryden critiques the use of religion as a tool for political gain and manipulation and warns against the dangers of religious extremism and intolerance.
Power and Ambition: The poem explores the corrupting nature of power and ambition, as seen in the characters of Absalom (Duke of Monmouth) and Achitophel (Earl of Shaftesbury). Dryden portrays these figures as driven by personal ambition and self-interest, rather than concern for the well-being of the nation.
In summary, "Absalom and Achitophel" is a satirical, political poem that uses biblical allegory to comment on the political and religious controversies of 17th-century England. Through its exploration of themes such as political allegory, factionalism, religion and politics, and power and ambition, the poem offers a scathing critique of the political machinations and motivations behind the Exclusion Crisis and serves as a powerful example of political satire in English literature.