Publisher's Synopsis
Absalom and Achitophel is a satirical poem written by John Dryden in 1681. The poem is a political allegory that tells the story of the rebellion against King David in the Old Testament, but is actually a commentary on the political situation in England at the time. The poem is divided into three parts and uses biblical characters to represent contemporary figures in English politics. The main characters are King David (Charles II), Absalom (James Scott, Duke of Monmouth), and Achitophel (Earl of Shaftesbury). The poem explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the dangers of political ambition. Dryden's writing is characterized by his use of heroic couplets and his skillful use of satire. The poem was widely popular at the time of its publication and is still studied and appreciated today as a masterpiece of political satire.Not So The Rest; For Several Mothers Bore To Godlike David, Several Sons Before. But Since Like Slaves His Bed They Did Ascend, No True Succession Could Their Seed Attend. Of All This Numerous Progeny Was None So Beautifull, So Brave As Absalon.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
