Professor Celia A. Easton
Outline for Dryden's "Absalom and Achitophel"
Thought Questions:
1. What views of human nature does Dryden convey in this poem (cite examples)?
2. What concerns does "A&A" express about democratic movements?
3. What does a stable monarchy represent in this poem?
4. What role does "Achitophel" play in "Absalom's" rebellion?
5. What does Dryden gain from the Biblical parallels he uses for the story of this rebellion? (see 2 Samuel 13-18)
| 1-10 | Comical invocation of Biblical justification of non-monogamy |
| 11-34 | Introduction of David & Absalom (Charles II & Duke of Monmouth, Charles' illegitimate son); Absalom's great qualities and military successes; David's preference for Absalom. |
| 35-42 | David's justifications of Absalom's faults. |
| 43-84 | Hints of dissatisfaction among the Jews (the English). Note comments Dryden makes on human nature. |
| 85-149 | Explanation of the Popish Plot (a claim by Titus Oates that Roman Catholics plotted to kill the King) |
| 93-103 | Catholic hardships |
| 135-149 | How the failed plot nevertheless was used for political advantage. |
| 150-219 | Achitophel (Earl of Shaftesbury): self-interested; anti-"Jebusite" (Catholic); appeals to the public. |
| 204-219 | Achitophel incites the people against David. |
| 220-229 | Achitophel chooses Absalom to lead rebellion. |
| 230-302 | Achitophel's speech to persuade Absalom that the people need him to be King. |
| 303-372 | Absalom's response to Achitophel's praise. |
| 315-334 | Absalom's defense of his father David's rule. |
| 335-372 | Absalom's initial rejection of Achitophel's invitation to rebel against David. |
| 363-372 | Absalom's reflection on the unfairness of illegitimacy |
| 373-477 | Achitophel points out David's weaknesses, and the undesirability of the next designated heir (i.e., James II, a distinctly Catholic man). |
| 478-629 | Achitophel "seduces" others to follow Absalom in rebellion. |
| 630-681 | Description of Corah (Titus Oates), responsible for the Plot. |
| 682-722 | Absalom turns against his father and becomes popular with the people. |
| 723-810 | Poet's distrust of "democratic" movements. |
| 811-913 | Catalogue of David's supporters |
| 914-938 | David's supporters explain his betrayal and call for action |
| 939-1025 | David speaks about preserving the state and the monarchy. |
| 958-973 | David describes his love for Absalom and his desire that he give up the rebellion. |
| 1005-1025 | David demonstrates the "fury of a patient man." |
| 1026-1031 | Resolution and support of David |