Absalom and Achitophel: blend the majesty of the heroic poem with the bitterness of satire

Absalom and Achitophel: blend the majesty of the heroic poem with the bitterness of satire

Q. Discuss to what extent Dryden succeeds in blending the majesty of the heroic poem with the bitterness of satire in Absalom and Achitophel.

Answer: John Dryden's "Absalom and Achitophel" is a satirical poem written in the late 17th century that addresses the political events and intrigues of his time. The poem, published in 1681, uses biblical allegory to comment on the political situation in England, particularly the Exclusion Crisis involving the succession to the throne.

Dryden's attempt to blend the majesty of the heroic poem with the bitterness of satire can be evaluated in several aspects:

1. Biblical Allegory:

- Dryden employs biblical characters and stories, drawing parallels between the biblical narrative of Absalom's rebellion against King David and the political events in England. This gives the poem a sense of grandeur and majesty associated with epic storytelling.

2. Heroic Elements:

- Dryden uses heroic couplets, a form of rhymed pairs of iambic pentameter lines, to convey the narrative. This choice of form aligns with the traditional structure of heroic poetry, adding an elevated and majestic quality to the work.

3. Satirical Elements:

- While Dryden adopts the form of a heroic poem, the content is satirical. He uses satire to criticize and mock contemporary political figures, particularly those involved in the Exclusion Crisis. The bitterness of the satire is evident in the characterizations and descriptions of various individuals.

4. Characterization:

- Dryden skillfully blends heroic and satirical elements in his characterization. For example, he portrays Charles II as a wise and benevolent king (majestic element), while characters like Achitophel (the Earl of Shaftesbury) and Absalom (the Duke of Monmouth) are depicted with satirical nuances, highlighting their flaws and ambitions.

5. Language and Style:

- The language and style of "Absalom and Achitophel" contribute to the blending of majesty and satire. Dryden's command of language allows him to weave intricate and majestic descriptions, while his satirical wit is evident in the clever use of language to criticize and satirize the political figures.

6. Political Commentary:

- The poem serves as a political commentary on the events of the time, reflecting both the gravity of the political situation and Dryden's satirical take on the key players. The combination of these elements adds depth and complexity to the work.

In brief, Dryden succeeds in blending the majesty of the heroic poem with the bitterness of satire in "Absalom and Achitophel." The poem's use of biblical allegory, heroic elements, satirical content, skillful characterization, language, and political commentary collectively create a work that is both grand and critical, showcasing Dryden's ability to navigate different literary styles within a single narrative.

*****

👉 Paradise Lost Book-I | Milton’s invocation to the Muse at the opening of the Epic

👉 Paradise Lost Book-I | The Hero – God or Satan

👉 Paradise Lost | Conflict between good and evil

👉 Paradise Lost | Character of Satan

👉 T. S. Eliot’s concept of the Impersonal theory of poetry

👉 Aristotle's Poetics | views on the plot of tragedy and its relative importance