Mac Flecknoe MCQs and Summary

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman | Last updated: June 4, 2025

Summary:

Mac Flecknoe is a satirical poem by John Dryden, written in 1678 and published in 1682. It is a mock-heroic work targeting Thomas Shadwell, a rival poet and playwright. The poem portrays Richard Flecknoe, a dull poet, choosing his successor—Shadwell—as the new king of nonsense. Dryden ridicules Shadwell’s lack of poetic talent, excessive verbosity, and poor literary judgment. The poem is filled with humorous imagery, sarcastic comparisons, and classical allusions to emphasize Shadwell’s mediocrity. Written in heroic couplets, Mac Flecknoe exemplifies Dryden’s mastery of satire and his skill in demolishing literary opponents through wit and ridicule.
Mac Flecknoe
Mac Fleck
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1. : Who is the primary target of Dryden’s satire in Mac Flecknoe?





2. : What is the main theme of the poem?





3. : Who is Flecknoe in the poem?





4. : Why does Flecknoe choose Shadwell as his successor?





5. : What literary device is predominantly used in Mac Flecknoe?





6. : What is the poetic form of Mac Flecknoe?





7. : Where is Shadwell’s coronation as the “King of Nonsense” held?





8. : Which of the following best describes Dryden’s tone in Mac Flecknoe?





9. : Which classical writers does Dryden reference in the poem?





10. : What does Dryden compare Shadwell’s writing to?





 
Question Answer
Poem Name Mac Flecknoe
Poet John Dryden
Year Written 1678
Year Published 1682
Poem Type Satire, Mock-heroic Poetry
Verse Form Heroic Couplets
Main Characters Flecknoe (Richard Flecknoe), Shadwell (Thomas Shadwell)
Themes Satire, Literary Mediocrity, Mockery of Bad Writing
Structure Narrative poem in heroic couplets
Tone Mocking, Humorous, Sarcastic
Famous Quote “Shadwell alone my perfect image bears, Mature in dullness from his tender years.”
Main Conflict The coronation of Shadwell as the dullest poet
Legacy Considered one of Dryden’s greatest satirical works
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