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"Thus in a pageant-shew a plot is made; And peace itself is war in masquerade."
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Absalom and AchitophelWhat cannot praise effect in mighty minds, — Absalom and Achitophel
"What cannot praise effect in mighty minds, When flattery sooths, and when ambition blinds?"
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Absalom and Achitophel
Absalom and Achitophel
author1679–168153 quotes
Absalom and Achitophel is a celebrated satirical poem by John Dryden, written in heroic couplets and first published in 1681. The poem tells the Biblical tale of the rebellion of Absalom against King David; in this context it is an allegory used to represent a story contemporary to Dryden, concerning King Charles II and the Exclusion Crisis (1679–1681). The poem also references the Popish Plot (16
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"The people have a right supreme To make their kings; for kings are made for them."
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"In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin."
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"Then Israels monarch after heavens own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and, wide as his command, Scattered his Makers image through the land."
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"Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalon; Whether inspired by by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty, to imperial sway."
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"Desire of power, on earth a vicious weed, Yet, sprung from high, is of celestial seed; In God tis glory; and when men aspire, Tis but a spark too much of heavenly fire."
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Absalom and Achitophel