An Essay of Dramatic Poesy

Definition

An Essay of Dramatic Poesy is a literary work written by John Dryden in 1668 that articulates his thoughts on drama, the nature of poetry, and the distinction between ancient and modern playwrights. This essay not only defends the value of English drama but also engages in a critical dialogue regarding the purpose and effectiveness of different styles of poetry and theater. Dryden's piece is significant for its exploration of literary theory and its influence on subsequent writers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dryden's essay is presented as a dialogue among four characters, each representing different viewpoints about the nature of drama.
2. In the essay, Dryden argues for the legitimacy and artistic merit of contemporary English drama compared to the classics of ancient Greece and Rome.
3. He addresses the controversial idea that modern playwrights can draw inspiration from classical sources while still innovating their own styles.
4. The essay critiques previous literary critics while establishing Dryden's authority as a leading voice in the discussion of dramatic theory.
5. An Essay of Dramatic Poesy is often seen as a foundational text in the study of literary criticism and is considered a key work in the transition to neoclassical ideals.

Review Questions

• How does John Dryden's An Essay of Dramatic Poesy reflect his views on the value of contemporary English drama compared to ancient drama?
  • In An Essay of Dramatic Poesy, Dryden defends contemporary English drama by arguing that modern playwrights possess the ability to innovate while still learning from the classics. He emphasizes that English dramatists are not only influenced by ancient works but also bring their own cultural context and emotional depth to their writing. Through dialogues among characters with differing opinions, Dryden showcases the strengths of modern drama in engaging audiences emotionally and morally, thereby elevating its status alongside classical works.
• Discuss how Dryden's use of dialogue in An Essay of Dramatic Poesy serves to present multiple perspectives on dramatic theory.
  • Dryden's use of dialogue in An Essay of Dramatic Poesy is a strategic choice that allows him to explore various perspectives on dramatic theory through distinct characters. Each character articulates different arguments related to the nature and effectiveness of drama, highlighting debates about unities, genre conventions, and poetic language. This conversational format not only enriches the analysis but also demonstrates Dryden's critical engagement with opposing views, positioning him as a mediator in the literary discourse of his time.
• Evaluate how An Essay of Dramatic Poesy influenced later literary criticism and shaped perceptions of neoclassicism in drama.
  • An Essay of Dramatic Poesy had a lasting impact on literary criticism by establishing foundational arguments about the nature of drama and poetic expression that would resonate with later critics. By defending neoclassical principles while acknowledging modern advancements, Dryden helped shape perceptions around what constituted effective theater. His insights encouraged subsequent writers to embrace both tradition and innovation, fostering a dynamic discourse on literature that would influence not only dramatic forms but also broader discussions on artistic merit throughout the 18th century and beyond.

Related terms

Neoclassicism:

A movement in literature and art that emphasized reason, clarity, and order, drawing inspiration from classical antiquity, which significantly influenced Dryden's writing.

Heroic Drama: A genre of serious drama popular in the late 17th century that emphasized noble characters and grand themes, often characterized by elevated language and moral dilemmas.

Dramatic Unities: The principles derived from classical theater that dictate a play should have unity of time, place, and action, which Dryden discusses in his essay.