Summary:
The Hind and the Panther (1687) is an allegorical poem by John Dryden that explores religious and political conflicts in England. The poem is divided into three parts and presents a dialogue between two animals—the Hind (representing the Roman Catholic Church) and the Panther (representing the Church of England). Dryden, who converted to Catholicism, defends the Catholic faith while criticizing the inconsistencies of Protestantism. The poem uses rich allegory and heroic couplets to discuss theological debates, monarchy, and church divisions. It remains one of Dryden’s most significant religious works, showcasing his rhetorical skill and poetic brilliance.
MCQs:
- What type of poem is The Hind and the Panther?
a) Epic
b) Allegorical
c) Pastoral
d) Elegy
Answer: b) Allegorical - Which two animals symbolize religious factions in the poem?
a) Lion and Tiger
b) Hind and Panther
c) Eagle and Fox
d) Horse and Wolf
Answer: b) Hind and Panther - What does the Hind represent in the poem?
a) The Anglican Church
b) The Catholic Church
c) The Puritans
d) The Protestant Dissenters
Answer: b) The Catholic Church
The Hind and the Panther - What does the Panther represent?
a) The Catholic Church
b) The Anglican Church
c) The Monarchy
d) The Parliament
Answer: b) The Anglican Church - What is the primary theme of the poem?
a) Romantic love
b) Religious conflict and church divisions
c) The beauty of nature
d) The fall of a hero
Answer: b) Religious conflict and church divisions - What verse form does Dryden use in The Hind and the Panther?
a) Blank verse
b) Free verse
c) Heroic couplets
d) Sonnet form
Answer: c) Heroic couplets - In which year was The Hind and the Panther published?
a) 1667
b) 1678
c) 1687
d) 1692
Answer: c) 1687 - Why did Dryden write The Hind and the Panther?
a) To defend the monarchy
b) To justify his conversion to Catholicism
c) To criticize King James II
d) To praise the Protestant Reformation
Answer: b) To justify his conversion to Catholicism - Which English king’s reign influenced the writing of The Hind and the Panther?
a) Charles I
b) Charles II
c) James II
d) William III
Answer: c) James II - How is the poem structured?
a) One long narrative
b) Three parts, each with distinct discussions
c) A sequence of unconnected verses
d) A prose essay with poetic interludes
Answer: b) Three parts, each with distinct discussions
| Question | Answer |
| Poem Name | The Hind and the Panther |
| Poet | John Dryden |
| Year Published | 1687 |
| Poem Type | Allegorical Satire |
| Verse Form | Heroic Couplets |
| Main Characters | The Hind (Catholic Church), The Panther (Anglican Church) |
| Themes | Religious Debate, Politics, Faith vs. Reason |
| Structure | Three Parts |
| Tone | Philosophical, Persuasive, Polemical |
| Famous Quote | “A milk-white Hind, immortal and unchanged, Fed on the lawns and in the forest ranged.” |
| Main Conflict | Debate between Catholicism and Protestantism |
| Legacy | One of Dryden’s most important religious allegories |