Final Answer:
By referring to Hannibal, whose father forced him to swear lifelong hatred of Rome and who later led an attack on it, Dryden uses d) Allusion.
Step-by-step explanation:
John Dryden, in the given excerpt, employs the literary device of allusion. Allusion is a figure of speech where an author makes a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, event, or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance. In this case, Dryden alludes to Hannibal, the ancient Carthaginian general, to draw a parallel between Hannibal's sworn enmity towards Rome and Shadwell's commitment to maintaining "true dullness." By invoking Hannibal, Dryden enhances the depth and meaning of the text, utilizing the historical context of Hannibal's oath to underscore the gravity of Shadwell's pledge to uphold dullness.
The use of allusion adds layers of meaning to Dryden's satirical commentary on Shadwell's commitment to anti-intellectualism. The reference to Hannibal serves as a powerful rhetorical device, emphasizing the intensity and longevity of Shadwell's aversion to wit and sense. Through this literary technique, Dryden engages the reader's familiarity with Hannibal's historical context to enrich the understanding of Shadwell's adamant stance against intellectual pursuits.
In summary, Dryden employs allusion by referencing Hannibal in the excerpt. This literary device enhances the text's depth, drawing a meaningful connection between historical events and the satirical portrayal of Shadwell's sworn commitment to dullness.