Hudibras · Chapter
The Author's Life explained
This chapter provides a biographical account of Samuel Butler, the author of the poem, detailing his birth in Strensham, education at Worcester and Cambridge, service as a clerk, and his time with notable figures such as the Countess of Ken
What happens
This chapter provides a biographical account of Samuel Butler, the author of the poem, detailing his birth in Strensham, education at Worcester and Cambridge, service as a clerk, and his time with notable figures such as the Countess of Kent and Sir Samuel Luke. It describes his composition of the poem during the Cromwellian era, his later roles under King Charles II, his marriage, and his friendships with patrons like the Duke of Buckingham and the Earl of Dorset. The chapter concludes with his death in 1680 and burial in Covent Garden, noting that his work serves as his lasting monument.
Themes in this chapter
Satire of Ideology
The chapter notes that Butler's poem exposes 'rebellion, nonsense, and hypocrisy,' aligning with the satirical critique of ideological extremes.
Political Corruption
Butler's observation that those 'at the helm, minding money more than merit' reflects a critique of political patronage and corruption.
Human Vanity and Self-Deception
The portrayal of Sir Samuel Luke as 'notorious, both in his person and politics' and the poem's exposure of hypocrisy suggest themes of self-deception.
Characters to notice
- Oliver Cromwell
Mentioned as the usurper under whom Sir Samuel Luke served, providing context for Butler's satirical targets.
- King Charles II
Referenced in the context of the Restoration, after which Butler sought patronage.
- Hudibras
The protagonist of the poem, which Butler composed while in the service of Sir Samuel Luke.
- Ralpho
Implicitly referenced as a character in the poem, which exposes rebellion and hypocrisy.
Key passages
“Haud facile emergunt, quorum virtutibus obstat Res angusta domi”
Those whose virtues are hindered by narrow domestic circumstances do not easily rise.
Butler found this Juvenal verse applicable to his own situation after the Restoration.
“From the great vulgar or the small”
From the common people of high or low rank.
Butler prudently chose acquaintances of discernment, as expressed by Mr. Cowley.