What Do You Know About Absalom and Achitophel?

Absalom and Achitophel is generally acknowledged as the finest political satire in the English language. The poem, written by John Dryden, is a biblical allegory that satirizes the political events and figures of the late 17th century in England. It tells the story of the rebellion of Absalom against his father, King David, which mirrors the political turmoil of the time. Through its clever use of satire, the poem criticizes and mocks the political figures and factions of the era, making it a powerful and influential work in the genre of political satire.

Achitophel is a poem written by John Dryden that tells the Biblical tale of the rebellion of Absalom against King David. The poem is based on the story found in the Second Book of Samuel in the Bible, where Absalom conspires against his father, King David, to take the throne. The poem explores themes of political intrigue, betrayal, and the consequences of rebellion.

John Dryden is the correct answer because he was an English poet who used a verse from Absalom and Achitopel. Absalom and Achitopel is a satirical poem written by Dryden in 1681, which was based on the biblical story of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. Dryden's use of a verse from this poem is significant because it showcases his skill as a poet and his ability to draw inspiration from biblical narratives.

Dryden wrote about how this poem contrasts with the ancient models of Horace, Virgil, and Juvenal. He likely discussed the different styles, themes, and techniques used by these poets and how his own poem differed from them. By mentioning "All of the above" as the correct answer, it implies that Dryden's work contrasted with all three ancient models mentioned.

The correct answer is "Satire." The poem "Absalom and Achitophel" has inspired a lot of discussion regarding satire. Satire is a literary technique that uses humor, irony, or ridicule to criticize and expose the flaws or vices of individuals, institutions, or society as a whole. In the poem, John Dryden uses satire to comment on the political events and figures of his time, particularly the Monmouth Rebellion and the political turmoil surrounding the succession to the English throne. The poem satirizes the actions and motivations of various characters, providing social and political commentary.

The story of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David, is told in the Old Testament. The Old Testament is a collection of religious texts and scriptures that are sacred in Judaism and Christianity. It contains various stories, including the accounts of the lives and experiences of many biblical figures, such as David and his son Absalom. These stories provide insights into the history, culture, and religious beliefs of ancient Israel.

The story portrays Absalom choosing to follow the counsel of the double agent Hushai instead of the wise advice given by Achitophel.

The writer of Absalom and Achitopel intentionally avoided making the satire too harsh towards those who were corrupt. This suggests that the writer may have had a more nuanced approach to portraying the corrupt characters, possibly aiming to highlight their flaws and criticize their actions without completely vilifying them. By not making the satire too sharp, the writer may have wanted to maintain a certain level of subtlety and complexity in their portrayal of corruption.

The poem references the Popish Plot (1678) and Monmouth Rebellion, both of which occurred before the year mentioned in the options. Therefore, the correct answer is 1685.

In the poem, there is a second allegory that starts on line 425, which is the Parable of the Prodigal Son. This parable tells the story of a son who asks his father for his inheritance, squanders it, and then returns home to his father, who forgives him and welcomes him back. This allegory is used to convey a moral lesson or message within the poem.