Show how Dryden used parody and burlesque in Mac Flecknoe. ( MEG 102 ) ( MAC FLECKNOE )

Mac Flecknoe is a satirical poem by John Dryden, in which he mocks the literary abilities of a mediocre poet named Thomas Shadwell. Two key rhetorical devices that Dryden uses to satirize Shadwell's work are parody and burlesque.

Parody involves imitating or mocking the style, form, or content of another work of literature, while burlesque involves mocking a serious subject by treating it in an absurd or exaggerated way.

In Mac Flecknoe, Dryden parodies and burlesques Shadwell's style of writing by imitating it and exaggerating its flaws. Dryden begins the poem by describing the "realms of Nonsense" where Shadwell reigns as king. He then goes on to describe Shadwell's father, Flecknoe, as a "mighty monarch" who is choosing a successor to his throne. Flecknoe selects Shadwell as his heir, describing him as "the first by whom fatigued, the Muse / Gave up to Shadwell what was meant for you." Dryden parodies the language and style of courtly praise, but uses it to mock Shadwell's lack of originality and skill.

Throughout the poem, Dryden also burlesques the themes and imagery found in Shadwell's poetry. For example, he describes Shadwell's works as "A monument to vanish'd minds," a parody of the line "A monument to brave men's memories" from Shadwell's own poem The Medal. Dryden exaggerates the language and imagery of Shadwell's poetry to the point of absurdity, mocking his lack of creativity and originality.

Overall, the use of parody and burlesque in Mac Flecknoe allows Dryden to effectively satirize Shadwell's literary abilities, and to create a humorous and entertaining poem. By imitating and exaggerating Shadwell's style, Dryden is able to expose the flaws in his poetry in a way that is both effective and entertaining.