Absalom and Achitophel

by

John Dryden

David’s oldest and most trusted friend. Barzillai was with David when David was in exile after the death of Saul. He likely represents James Butler, 1st Duke of Ormond, who was likewise in exile with Charles II after the execution of Charles I. Ormond returned to England with Charles after the Restoration and was his close friend and ally.
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Barzillai Character Timeline in Absalom and Achitophel

The timeline below shows where the character Barzillai appears in Absalom and Achitophel. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Absalom and Achitophel
Politics, Allegory, and Satire Theme Icon
...plot, as he has few friends, but those friends he has are loyal. First is Barzillai, who is honorable and old. He was in exile with David and traveled back with... (full context)