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Anti-Achitophel (1682) Three Verse Replies to Absalom and Achitophel by John Dryden   By: (1633-1691?)

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In Samuel Pordage's thought-provoking work, he takes on the intricate task of responding to John Dryden's Absalom and Achitophel, an influential and controversial political satire of its time. Anti-Achitophel, published in 1682, comprises three verse replies that engage in a war of words with Dryden's original masterpiece. Pordage's work not only delves into the intricacies and complexities of political discourse but also provides a fresh perspective on historical events of the era.

One of the primary strengths of Pordage's Anti-Achitophel lies in his ability to skillfully and eloquently articulate his rebuttals to Dryden's work. Pordage's verses are filled with poignant and powerful language, showcasing his mastery of poetic form and his ability to convey deep meaning through the written word. Each verse reply is crafted meticulously, allowing readers to witness the evolution and refinement of Pordage's arguments throughout the text.

Moreover, Pordage's work shines a light on the multifaceted nature of political satire during the late 17th century. By engaging with Dryden's Absalom and Achitophel, Pordage not only challenges the ideas put forth by Dryden but also provides readers with an alternative perspective, encouraging them to critically analyze the political landscape of their time. Pordage's exploration of the various characters and events depicted in the original work adds depth and complexity to the ongoing literary discourse.

While Anti-Achitophel serves as a direct response to John Dryden, it offers much more than mere contradiction. Pordage skillfully weaves historical, social, and political themes into his verses, allowing readers to engage with a broader context beyond the immediate disagreement with Dryden. This layered approach adds richness and depth to the work, making it thought-provoking and worthy of close examination.

However, it is essential to note that Anti-Achitophel may not be accessible to readers unfamiliar with Dryden's Absalom and Achitophel. Pordage frequently refers to and engages with the characters and incidents from Dryden's text, assuming a certain level of familiarity with the original work. While this does not diminish the quality of Pordage's verses, it may limit the audience that can fully appreciate and understand the depth of his arguments.

In conclusion, Samuel Pordage's Anti-Achitophel is a remarkable piece of literature that not only challenges John Dryden's Absalom and Achitophel but also provides readers with a nuanced and alternative perspective on the political and social issues of its time. Pordage's powerful language and skilled verse construction elevate the work, making it a captivating read for those intrigued by political satire, historical context, and the art of complex poetic expression.

First Page:

[Transcriber's Note: Typographical errors are listed separately at the end of the Editor's Introduction and each poem.]

Anti Achitophel

(1682)

THREE VERSE REPLIES TO

Absalom and Achitophel by JOHN DRYDEN

Absalom Senior by Elkanah Settle Poetical Reflections by Anonymous Azaria and Hushai by Samuel Pordage

Facsimile Reproductions

Edited with an Introduction by HAROLD WHITMORE JONES

Gainesville, Florida Scholars' Facsimiles & Reprints 1961

SCHOLARS' FACSIMILES & REPRINTS 118 N.W. 26th Street Gainesville, Florida Harry R. Warfel, General Editor

Reproduced from Copies in BRITISH MUSEUM UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA LIBRARY

L. C. Catalog Card Number: 60 6430

Manufactured in the U.S.A. Letterpress by J. N. Anzel, Inc. Photolithography by Edwards Brothers Binding by Universal Dixie Bindery

INTRODUCTION

English verse allegory, humorous or serious, political or moral, has deep roots; a reprint such as the present is clearly no place for a discussion of the subject at large:[1] it need only be recalled here that to the age that produced The Pilgrim's Progress the art form was not new... Continue reading book >>




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