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.
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| 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 |