who oppose King Charles II He uses the character of Achitophel He represents the Earl of Shaftesbury Achitophel's persuasive skills and deceitfulness are highlighted to show the danger and dishonesty of those who conspire against the king This serves to undermine the morality of the opposition Dryden paints them as villains who threaten the peace and order of the realm Loyalty and Betrayal The poem's theme of loyalty and betrayal runs deep Absalom who represents the Duke of Monmouth is shown as a beloved but misguided son of the king He is David s favourite illegitimate son He is handsome and ambitious He is persuaded to rebel against his father but struggles with the moral implications Dryden says about him Absalom ambitious of the crown Was made the lure to draw the people down Absalom and Achitophel by John Dryden is a powerful poem with many lessons It supports King Charles II criticizes his enemies and warns against rebellion and ambition By using a biblical story Dryden teaches about loyalty the dangers of flattery and the importance of stable leadership nbsp