John Dryden

Definition

John Dryden was a prominent English poet, playwright, and critic who served as the first Poet Laureate of England. His work is often associated with the Restoration period, reflecting the cultural and political shifts following the Civil War, and he played a crucial role in shaping the literary landscape of his time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dryden was appointed as England's first Poet Laureate in 1668, a position that recognized his contributions to English literature and poetry.
2. His play 'All for Love' is a famous adaptation of Shakespeare's 'Antony and Cleopatra', showcasing his skill in dramatic writing.
3. Dryden's critical essays, such as 'An Essay of Dramatic Poesy', were instrumental in establishing literary criticism as an important field in English literature.
4. He was known for his use of satire to comment on contemporary politics and social issues, particularly evident in his poem 'Absalom and Achitophel'.
5. Dryden's influence extended beyond poetry and drama; he was also a translator, notably translating works from Latin and French into English.

Review Questions

• How did John Dryden's work reflect the cultural shifts following the Civil War?
  • John Dryden's work embodies the cultural shifts following the Civil War by addressing themes of political power, morality, and human nature through satire and dramatic expression. His writings reflected the restored monarchy's complexities after years of turmoil, using literature as a medium to engage with contemporary issues. By intertwining personal conflicts with broader societal changes, Dryden not only mirrored his time but also influenced the development of Restoration literature.
• In what ways did John Dryden contribute to the evolution of literary criticism during the Restoration period?
  • John Dryden significantly contributed to the evolution of literary criticism through his critical essays, particularly 'An Essay of Dramatic Poesy'. In this work, he presented arguments about drama, comparing different playwrights and their styles while defending the importance of unity in plays. His insights laid the groundwork for future literary critics and established standards for evaluating drama that resonated throughout subsequent generations.
• Evaluate how John Dryden's use of satire influenced Restoration literature and its societal impact.
  • John Dryden's use of satire had a profound influence on Restoration literature by providing a powerful tool for critiquing political figures and societal norms. Works like 'Absalom and Achitophel' showcased how satire could address real-life issues while entertaining audiences, thus shaping public opinion. This blend of entertainment and commentary not only engaged readers but also encouraged them to reflect on their society, fostering a culture where literature became an essential part of political discourse during the Restoration period.

Related terms

Restoration Literature: Literature produced during the Restoration period (1660-1700) that often featured themes of satire, comedy, and a return to classical forms, influenced by the reopening of theaters after the Puritan rule.

Satire: A genre of literature that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or societal norms; a significant technique in Dryden's works.

Heroic Couplet: A pair of rhymed lines of iambic pentameter, which Dryden popularized in his poetry and was a defining characteristic of Restoration verse.