John Dryden, a prominent English poet and playwright of the 17th century, is renowned for his satirical masterpiece, “Mac Flecknoe.” This mock-heroic poem targets the poet Richard Flecknoe, a contemporary of Dryden, and ridicules his mediocre literary abilities. The poem’s witty and cutting humor elevates it as a significant work of literary criticism, highlighting Dryden’s disdain for Flecknoe and his followers.
Structure of John Dryden’s “Mac Flecknoe”
Overview
“Mac Flecknoe” by John Dryden is a satirical poem in heroic couplets that mocks Thomas Shadwell, a rival poet. The poem is structured in a three-part format that builds tension and delivers a climactic punchline.
Part 1
– Introduction: Dryden establishes the premise of the poem, presenting Shadwell as the heir to an aging poet named Richard Flecknoe.
– Flecknoe’s Legacy: Dryden describes Flecknoe’s reign as a dull and mediocre writer, suggesting that Shadwell is doomed to a similar fate.
– Shadwell’s Qualifications: Dryden satirically lists Shadwell’s “achievements,” including his theatrical failures and his ignorance of classical literature.
Part 2
– Ceremony of Succession: Dryden performs a mock coronation, transferring the mantle of “King of Dullness” from Flecknoe to Shadwell.
– Shadwell’s Subjects: Dryden introduces a group of Shadwell’s followers, each embodying a specific aspect of his literary incompetence.
– Shadwell’s Reign: Dryden predicts Shadwell’s reign as a time of intellectual decline and vulgarity.
Part 3
– The Final Blow: Dryden delivers a devastating punchline, declaring that Shadwell will be remembered as the worst poet of all time.
– Shadwell’s Legacy: Dryden prophesizes that Shadwell’s work will be forgotten and fade into obscurity.
– Dryden’s Triumph: Dryden concludes by asserting his own superiority as a poet and celebrating his ability to mock the incompetent.
Key Features
– Rhyme Scheme: Heroic couplets (ABAB) throughout.
– Satire: Uses irony, exaggeration, and mockery to criticize Shadwell.
– Mock Heroic: Mimics the epic genre to elevate trivial subjects like Shadwell’s poetry.
– Table of Shadwell’s Followers:
| Character | Characteristic |
|—|—|
| Bavius | Represents dullness and obscurity |
| Mævius | Represents ignorance and bad taste |
| Og | Represents theatrical failure |
| Codrus | Represents arrogance and self-importance |
Question 1:
Who is the subject of John Dryden’s poem “Mac Flecknoe”?
Answer:
The subject of John Dryden’s poem “Mac Flecknoe” is Richard Flecknoe (Subject – John Dryden’s poem; Predicate – subject of; Object – Richard Flecknoe).
Question 2:
What is the central theme of John Dryden’s poem “Mac Flecknoe”?
Answer:
The central theme of John Dryden’s poem “Mac Flecknoe” is literary criticism and rivalry (Subject – John Dryden’s poem; Predicate – central theme of; Object – literary criticism and rivalry).
Question 3:
What literary device does John Dryden employ in “Mac Flecknoe”?
Answer:
John Dryden employs the literary device of mock-heroic satire in “Mac Flecknoe” (Subject – John Dryden; Predicate – employs; Object – mock-heroic satire in “Mac Flecknoe”).
Well, there you have it, folks! John Dryden’s “Mac Flecknoe” is a timeless satire that skewers one of the worst poets of his time. It’s a hilarious and biting piece of work that showcases Dryden’s wit and poetic prowess. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back soon for more literary fun and facts!