Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Astraea Redux: A Poem on the Happy Restoration and Return of His Majesty Charles II" is a poem written by John Dryden in 1660 to celebrate the return of King Charles II to England after his exile during the English Civil War.

Content:

The poem is a tribute to the restored monarch, celebrating his return to power and the end of a period of political upheaval and uncertainty. Dryden draws on themes of justice and divine providence, suggesting that the return of the king represents a restoration of order and stability to the nation. The poem also celebrates the role of the monarchy in preserving the nation's cultural heritage and traditions, and draws on references to classical literature and mythology to create a sense of grandeur and majesty.

Throughout the poem, Dryden uses vivid and evocative language to convey his admiration for the king and his achievements. He also draws on historical and political references, including references to the English Civil War and the monarchy's role in restoring peace and stability. The poem is notable for its rhetorical power and its ability to evoke a sense of awe and reverence.

Form and Style:

"Astraea Redux: A Poem on the Happy Restoration and Return of His Majesty Charles II" is written in rhyming couplets and follows a formal structure, characteristic of Dryden's writing. The poem is notable for its use of rich and evocative language, as well as for its rhetorical sophistication. Dryden employs a range of literary devices, including metaphor and allusion, to create a sense of depth and complexity.

Summary:

 Dryden defends the legitimacy of the present regal line and acknowledges that the safety and liberty of the people are owed to the current monarch. He also criticizes those who had sought to undermine the monarchy, such as Oliver Cromwell, who he refers to as "whose venomeous soul to publick ruine wrought." Despite this, Dryden acknowledges that even those who were once opposed to the monarchy have come to accept and support it, but also notes that some have done so out of self-interest and flattery. Overall, the poem reinforces the importance of stability and order under a strong and just monarch.

The poem is widely regarded as one of Dryden's most important works, and as a testament to the political and cultural context of seventeenth-century England. It has been praised for its skillful use of language and its ability to capture the essence of the Restoration period. The poem continues to be studied and appreciated for its insights into the cultural and social context of the period, and for its enduring relevance to contemporary debates about the nature of power and authority.

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...