1-10
|
Introduction of David's (Charles
II's) extensive sexual activity - (somewhat comically) presented as a form
of generosity and blessing--under the guise of allegory |
11-18
|
The problem of succession - legitimacy |
18-42
|
Introduction of Absalom (Monmouth) |
43-84
|
The Jews' political dissatisfactions
introduced; the Jews (the English) disparaged for these dissatisfactions.
References to Saul (Oliver Cromwell) & Isbosheth (Richard Cromwell)
Critical political problem (origin of monarch's power) obliquely
suggested.
References to civil war
|
85-107
|
Introduction of history of Jebusites
(Catholics) and Jews (English/Protestants) |
| 108-149 |
Popish
Plot (a fever in the body politic) introduced in the context of history
of Jebusites and Jews. The political function of the plot--its usefulness
to political factions opposed to David/Charles
|
| 150-219 |
Satiric portrait of Achitophel
(Earl of Shaftesbury), a portrait of excess and deformity (see esp. 150-164);
Achitophel's political opposition (see esp. 192-213).
|
| 220-229 |
Achitophel sets out to persuade
Absalom to join the opposition (note "sheds his venom" (229).
|
| 230-302 |
Achitophel's speech of praise:
"Auspicious Prince. . . "
|
| 303-372 |
Poet's characterization of Absalom
and Absalom's conflicted response to Achitophel's praise (he is "debauch'd
with praise"). Note Absalom's questions; his defense and praise of David,
his father; and his stated and implied rejection of Achitophel's
persuasion. But also notice his longing for greatness. Analyze
the "seduction" that takes place.
|
| 373-477 |
Achitophel's "seduction" of Absalom
continues. He announces his hatred for the rightful heir (James), brings
up and casually treats a number of constitutional issues, and invites Absalom
to "Commit a pleasing rape upon the crown" (474).
|
| 478-490 |
Absalom is persuaded.
|
| 491-629 |
Achitophel begins to "unite" the "malcontents": the "best"; the
"next"; "others"; "next"; "dreaming saints." Who are these groups?
See also individual portraits: Zimri, Jonas, Shimei.
|
| 630-681 |
Description of Corah (Titus Oates),
allowed to pass from oblivion because the creator of the Plot. Try
reading this satiric portrait aloud.
|
| 682-722 |
"Deluded Absalom forsakes the
court" and begins to 'court' the people, as he bows "popularly low."
Notice his language of "lost estate" and "arbitrary laws."
|
| 723-810 |
The "crowd" responds. Pay
special attention to Dryden's political analysis; and notice direct allusion
to the state of nature.
|
| 811-916 |
Righteous David's supporters
"a small but faithful band" (914)
|
| 917-932 |
His supporters reveal the disloyalty
of the opposition and of Absalom.
|
| 933-1025 |
David carefully revolves these
things in his "breast" and then SPEAKS (at length). The speech would
be worth outlining. (Notice, among other things, Dryden's use of
law and grace.)
|
| 1026-1031 |
"Once more the god-like David
was restor'd,
And Willing nations knew their lawful lord" (1030-31).
|