John Dryden

Definition

John Dryden was a prominent English poet, playwright, and critic in the 17th century, often regarded as the father of modern English criticism. His work laid the foundation for Restoration comedy and drama, blending classical influences with a distinctly English sensibility. Dryden’s contributions to theatre during the Restoration period reflected the changing social dynamics and cultural shifts of his time, which were marked by the reopening of the theatres after years of Puritan suppression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dryden served as England's first Poet Laureate, appointed in 1668, marking a significant recognition of the role of poets in society.
2. His play 'All for Love,' a retelling of Shakespeare’s 'Antony and Cleopatra,' showcased his mastery of tragic elements while appealing to Restoration audiences.
3. Dryden was known for his critical essays that established important theories about drama and poetry, helping to shape the standards for future playwrights.
4. He emphasized the importance of moral lessons in theatre, believing that plays should instruct as well as entertain, which influenced the direction of Restoration comedy.
5. Dryden's collaborations and rivalries with other playwrights, including his famous feud with Thomas Shadwell, highlight the competitive landscape of Restoration theatre.

Review Questions

• How did John Dryden's work influence the characteristics of Restoration comedy?
  • John Dryden significantly influenced Restoration comedy by introducing a blend of wit, satire, and social commentary that resonated with audiences emerging from Puritanical restrictions. His plays often featured complex characters and intricate plots that reflected contemporary society's morals and follies. This approach not only entertained but also provided a critique of social norms, establishing a new standard for comedic writing during this vibrant period in English theatre.
• Analyze how Dryden's role as England's first Poet Laureate affected his literary contributions to theatre.
  • As England's first Poet Laureate, John Dryden was positioned at the intersection of politics and literature, allowing him to influence public opinion through his plays and poetry. His official role elevated the status of playwrights and poets in society, encouraging him to produce works that were not only entertaining but also resonated with national themes. This combination of political awareness and artistic expression shaped his contributions to theatre, reflecting contemporary issues while enhancing the prestige of dramatic arts.
• Evaluate John Dryden's impact on the evolution of English drama beyond the Restoration period.
  • John Dryden's impact on English drama extended well beyond the Restoration period through his innovative use of language and structure that set a precedent for future playwrights. By introducing complex characterizations and moral themes into his works, he paved the way for later dramatic movements such as Romanticism and even elements found in modern plays. His critical writings on drama helped establish foundational theories that guided playwrights in subsequent generations, ensuring that his legacy would influence English theatre long after his time.

Related terms

Restoration Theatre: The period of English theatre from 1660 to 1710 when theatres reopened after being closed during the Puritan rule, marked by a focus on comedy and an exploration of human nature.

Heroic Drama: A genre popularized by Dryden that featured noble characters in elevated language, often focusing on themes of love and honor, but which eventually fell out of favor for more comedic works.

Theater of the Absurd: A post-World War II theatrical movement that arose in the 1950s, which can trace its roots back to the innovations in character and plot development introduced by writers like Dryden.