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The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1
The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1

Chapter I · Chapter 1

Chapter 1 of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1 is here in full — 301 sentences across 61 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1
Context Illustration Reading 1/60 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
--Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.
10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.
But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.
Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.
Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1

Chapter I · Chapter 1

Chapter 1 of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1 is here in full — 301 sentences across 61 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/60 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
--Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.
Line 2
10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.
Line 3
But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.
/bʌt sɪns laɪk sleɪvz hɪz bed ðeɪ dɪd əˈsend noʊ truː səkˈseʃən kʊd ðer siːd əˈtend/
Line 4
Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.
Line 5
Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

Learner Dictionary

These definitions explain words found in the current reading and keep every example grounded in its original sentence.

Oxford-style entry order: headword, part of speech, US IPA, concise definition, contextual example, and audio.

concubine noun US /ˈkɑːnkjəbaɪn/

a woman who cohabits with an important man

From this reading “--Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.”

Israel's noun US /ˈɪzreɪlz/

possessive form of “israel” — Jewish republic in southwestern Asia at eastern end of Mediterranean; formerly part of Palestine

From this reading “--Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.”

Maker's noun US /ˈmeɪkərz/

possessive form of “maker” — a person who makes things

From this reading “--Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.”

multiplied adjective US /ˈmʌltəplaɪd/

greatly increased as by multiplication

From this reading “--Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.”

polygamy noun US /pəˈlɪɡəmiː/

the condition or practice of having more than one spouse at a time

From this reading “--Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.”

progeny noun US /ˈprɑːdʒəni/

the immediate descendants of a person

From this reading “Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.”

Promiscuous adjective US /ˈproʊmɪskwəs/

not selective of a single class or person

From this reading “--Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.”

variously adverb US /ˈveriəsli/

in diverse ways

From this reading “--Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.”

All words in this reading · 142

Every word in these five lines is listed here, and every one of them can be played on its own.

Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

10

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

20

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

adeterminerUS /ə/

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

Absalom

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/

later than; following

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

alladjectiveUS /ɔːl/

(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

alliedadjectiveUS /əˈlaɪd/

related by common characteristics or ancestry

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

at the same time that; because; in the way that

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

ascendverbUS /əˈsend/

travel up

From this reading But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.

attendverbUS /əˈtend/

be present at (meetings, church services, university), etc.

From this reading But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.

beautifuladjectiveUS /ˈbjuːtəfəl/

delighting the senses or exciting intellectual or emotional admiration

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

beautynounUS /ˈbjuːti/

the qualities that give pleasure to the senses

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

bednounUS /bed/

a piece of furniture that provides a place to sleep

From this reading But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.

BeforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

beginverbUS /bɪˈɡɪn/

take the first step or steps in carrying out an action

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

bloodnounUS /blʌd/

The red fluid that circulates in the heart and blood vessels.

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

boreverbUS /bɔːr/

cause to be bored

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

bornadjectiveUS /bɔːrn/

brought into existence

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

braveadjectiveUS /breɪv/

possessing or displaying courage; able to face and deal with danger or fear without flinching

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

bridenounUS /braɪd/

a woman who has recently been married

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

ButconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

capiet

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

carenounUS /ker/

the work of providing treatment for or attending to someone or something

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

commandnounUS /kəˈmænd/

an authoritative direction or instruction to do something

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

concubinenounUS /ˈkɑːnkjəbaɪn/

a woman who cohabits with an important man

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

confinedadjectiveUS /kənˈfaɪnd/

not invading healthy tissue

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

consciousadjectiveUS /ˈkɑːnʃəs/

intentionally conceived

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/

the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests

From this reading But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.

crownnounUS /kraʊn/

the Crown (or the reigning monarch) as the symbol of the power and authority of a monarchy

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

cursedlyadverb

in a damnable manner

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

DavidnounUS /ˈdeɪvɪd/

patron saint of Wales (circa 520-600)

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

deniedverbUS /dɪˈnaɪd/

inflected form of “deny” — declare untrue; contradict

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

destinynounUS /ˈdestəni/

an event (or a course of events) that will inevitably happen in the future

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

didauxiliary verbUS /dɪd/

the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

divinernoun

someone who claims to discover hidden knowledge with the aid of supernatural powers

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

EarlyadjectiveUS /ˈɜːrli/

at or near the beginning of a period of time or course of events or before the usual or expected time

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

ereconjunctionUS /er/

an old word for “before”

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

fathernounUS /ˈfɑːðər/

a male parent (also used as a term of address to your father)

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

fieldsnounUS /fiːldz/

United States comedian and film actor (1880-1946)

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

foreignadjectiveUS /ˈfɔːrən/

of concern to or concerning the affairs of other nations (other than your own)

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

god-like

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

gotverbUS /ɡɑːt/

inflected form of “get” — come into the possession of something concrete or abstract

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

greateradjectiveUS /ˈɡreɪtər/

greater in size or importance or degree

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

gustnounUS /ɡʌst/

a strong current of air

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

hepronounUS /hiː/

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

heartnounUS /hɑːrt/

the locus of feelings and intuitions

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

Heaven'snounUS /ˈhevənz/

possessive form of “heaven” — any place of complete bliss and delight and peace

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

himpronounUS /hɪm/

the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

imagenounUS /ˈɪmədʒ/

an iconic mental representation

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

impartverbUS /ˌɪmˈpɑːrt/

transmit (knowledge or skills)

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

imperialadjectiveUS /ˌɪmˈpɪriəl/

relating to or associated with an empire

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

InprepositionUS /ɪn/

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

inspiredadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈspaɪərd/

being of such surpassing excellence as to suggest inspiration by the gods

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

Israel'snounUS /ˈɪzreɪlz/

possessive form of “israel” — Jewish republic in southwestern Asia at eastern end of Mediterranean; formerly part of Palestine

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

kindadjectiveUS /kaɪnd/

having or showing a tender and considerate and helpful nature; used especially of persons and their behavior

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

kingsnounUS /kɪŋz/

plural of “king” — a male sovereign; ruler of a kingdom

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

landnounUS /lænd/

the land on which real estate is located

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

lawnounUS /lɔː/

the collection of rules imposed by authority

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

likeverbUS /laɪk/

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.

lovenounUS /lʌv/

a strong positive emotion of regard and affection

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

lustnounUS /lʌst/

a strong sexual desire

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

madeadjectiveUS /meɪd/

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

magis

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

Maker'snounUS /ˈmeɪkərz/

possessive form of “maker” — a person who makes things

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

mannounUS /mæn/

an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

manlyadjectiveUS /ˈmænli/

possessing qualities befitting a man

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

manyadjectiveUS /ˈmeni/

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “as” or “too” or “so” or “that”; amounting to a large but indefinite number

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

Michal

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

monarchnounUS /ˈmɑːnɑːrk/

a nation's ruler or head of state usually by hereditary right

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

mothersnounUS /ˈmʌðərz/

plural of “mother” — a woman who has given birth to a child (also used as a term of address to your mother)

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

multipliedadjectiveUS /ˈmʌltəplaɪd/

greatly increased as by multiplication

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

naturenounUS /ˈneɪtʃər/

the essential qualities or characteristics by which something is recognized

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

nodeterminerUS /noʊ/

not any; not one

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

nonepronounUS /nʌn/

not one, and not any

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

NotadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

numerousadjectiveUS /ˈnuːmərəs/

amounting to a large indefinite number

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

onlyadverbUS /ˈoʊnli/

and nothing more

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

OrconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

ownverbUS /oʊn/

have ownership or possession of

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

peacenounUS /piːs/

the state prevailing during the absence of war

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

piousadjectiveUS /ˈpaɪəs/

having or showing or expressing reverence for a deity

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

polygamynounUS /pəˈlɪɡəmiː/

the condition or practice of having more than one spouse at a time

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

priestcraftnoun

a derogatory reference to priests who use their influence to control secular or political affairs

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

progenynounUS /ˈprɑːdʒəni/

the immediate descendants of a person

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

PromiscuousadjectiveUS /ˈproʊmɪskwəs/

not selective of a single class or person

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

promptedverbUS /ˈprɑːmptɪd/

past form of “prompt” — give an incentive for action

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

propiùs

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

removeverbUS /riˈmuːv/

remove something concrete, as by lifting, pushing, or taking off, or remove something abstract

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

renownnounUS /rɪˈnaʊn/

the state or quality of being widely honored and acclaimed

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

restverbUS /rest/

not move; be in a resting position

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

royaladjectiveUS /ˈrɔɪəl/

of or relating to or indicative of or issued or performed by a king or queen or other monarch

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

Scatter'd

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

seednounUS /siːd/

a small hard fruit

From this reading But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.

seem'd

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

severaladjectiveUS /ˈsevrəl/

(used with count nouns) of an indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

SinounUS /siː/

a tetravalent nonmetallic element; next to oxygen it is the most abundant element in the earth's crust; occurs in clay and feldspar and granite and quartz and sand; used as a semiconductor in transistors

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

sinnounUS /sɪn/

estrangement from god

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

sinceprepositionUS /sɪns/

from a time in the past until now

From this reading But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.

slavesnounUS /sleɪvz/

plural of “slave” — a person who is owned by someone

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

soconjunctionUS /soʊ/

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

soilnounUS /sɔɪl/

the state of being covered with unclean things

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

someadjectiveUS /sʌm/

(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

sonsnounUS /sʌnz/

plural of “son” — a male human offspring

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

statesnounUS /steɪts/

plural of “state” — the territory occupied by one of the constituent administrative districts of a nation

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

stes

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

successionnounUS /səkˈseʃən/

a following of one thing after another in time

From this reading But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.

swayverbUS /sweɪ/

move back and forth or sideways

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

TenounUS /tiː/

a brittle silver-white metalloid element that is related to selenium and sulfur; it is used in alloys and as a semiconductor; occurs mainly as tellurides in ores of copper and nickel and silver and gold

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.

ThenadverbUS /ðen/

subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

theypronounUS /ðeɪ/

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.

thoughtsnounUS /θɔːts/

plural of “thought” — the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

throughprepositionUS /θruː/

from one end or side of something to the other

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

tiller's

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

timesnounUS /taɪmz/

a more or less definite period of time now or previously present

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

toparticleUS /tuː/

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

trueadjectiveUS /truː/

consistent with fact or reality; not false

From this reading But since like slaves his bed they did ascend, No true succession could their seed attend.

ungratefuladjectiveUS /ənˈɡreɪtfəl/

not feeling or showing gratitude

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

usenounUS /juːs/

the act of using

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

variouslyadverbUS /ˈveriəsli/

in diverse ways

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

vigorousadjectiveUS /ˈvɪɡərəs/

characterized by forceful and energetic action or activity

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

warnounUS /wɔːr/

the waging of armed conflict against an enemy

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

warmthnounUS /wɔːrmθ/

the sensation caused by heat energy

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

waynounUS /weɪ/

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

wearverbUS /wer/

be dressed in

From this reading 10 Michal, of royal blood, the crown did wear; A soil ungrateful to the tiller's care: Not so the rest; for several mothers bore To god-like David several sons before.

wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/

the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

WhenconjunctionUS /wen/

at the time that

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

WhetherconjunctionUS /ˈweðər/

used to introduce two or more possibilities

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

wideadjectiveUS /waɪd/

having great (or a certain) extent from one side to the other

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading Of all the numerous progeny was none So beautiful, so brave, as Absalom: Whether inspired by some diviner lust, His father got him with a greater gust; 20 Or that his conscious destiny made way, By manly beauty to imperial sway.

wivesnounUS /waɪvz/

plural of “wife” — a married woman; a man's partner in marriage

From this reading --Si propiùs stes Te capiet magis-- In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin; When man on many multiplied his kind, Ere one to one was cursedly confined; When nature prompted, and no law denied Promiscuous use of concubine and bride; Then Israel's monarch after Heaven's own heart, His vigorous warmth did variously impart To wives and slaves; and wide as his command, Scatter'd his Maker's image through the land.

wonnounUS /wʌn/

the basic unit of money in South Korea

From this reading Early in foreign fields he won renown, With kings and states allied to Israel's crown: In peace the thoughts of war he could remove, And seem'd as he were only born for love.

Chapter 1 of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1 by John Dryden holds 301 sentences, grouped into 61 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 1 of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1 contain?

Chapter 1 holds 301 sentences of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1, unabridged, divided into 61 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 1 of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1 by John Dryden exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 301 sentences, grouped into 61 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 1 of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1?

Work through the 61 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 61 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 1 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 1 can be played aloud in United States English.

Audio covers the whole chapter: any sentence can be played, and any single word within it can be played on its own. The voice uses United States English. For a work of this period that matters, because spelling is an unreliable guide to pronunciation for vocabulary that has fallen out of daily use, and a learner who guesses wrong tends to keep the error. Hearing the word in its own sentence, and then alone, settles it.

Questions about reading The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1

Common questions about reading The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1 by John Dryden on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1?

Yes. All 2176 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #11488 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1 is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #11488, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1 take to read?

About 181 minutes of reading across 436 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1 section by section

How to work through The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1 section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

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Vocabulary met early in The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1

Words and structures a reader meets early in The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Propi
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Capiet
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Magis--
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Pious
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Poetical Works of John Dryden — Volume 1; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.