An Essay of Dramatic Poesy

Definition

An Essay of Dramatic Poesy is a seminal work of literary criticism written by John Dryden in 1668, where he defends the merits of English drama while addressing various aspects of dramatic composition and theatrical representation. This essay represents a critical turning point in literary criticism, emphasizing the importance of rules and principles in poetry and drama, and establishing a framework for evaluating works of art in a modern context.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In An Essay of Dramatic Poesy, Dryden employs a dialogue format where four characters express differing views on dramatic art, allowing for a comprehensive examination of contemporary issues in theatre.
2. The essay defends the use of English drama against French classical traditions, highlighting the unique qualities and strengths of English playwrights such as Shakespeare.
3. Dryden argues for the relevance of reason and observation in artistic creation, which marks a shift toward a more analytical approach to literary criticism.
4. The essay discusses key elements such as character development, moral lessons, and the role of humor in drama, providing insights into what constitutes effective storytelling.
5. An Essay of Dramatic Poesy has been influential in establishing criteria for evaluating poetry and drama, setting a precedent for future critics like Alexander Pope.

Review Questions

• How does Dryden's use of dialogue in An Essay of Dramatic Poesy enhance his arguments about drama?
  • Dryden's use of dialogue allows different perspectives to be presented in a balanced manner. This method highlights the complexities within dramatic criticism and enables readers to engage with the contrasting views of characters. By framing his arguments through a conversational exchange, Dryden can dissect various opinions on the nature of drama, making his points more relatable and thought-provoking.
• What role does An Essay of Dramatic Poesy play in the transition from traditional to modern literary criticism?
  • An Essay of Dramatic Poesy is pivotal because it introduces a more structured approach to literary analysis. Dryden's emphasis on rules, observation, and reason marked a shift from subjective interpretations to more objective evaluations based on established criteria. This foundational text laid the groundwork for future critics, including Alexander Pope, who continued to develop formalist approaches to literature.
• Evaluate how Dryden's comparisons between English drama and French classical traditions reflect broader cultural tensions in 17th-century England.
  • Dryden's comparisons reveal significant cultural tensions between emerging English nationalism and established French artistic norms. By defending English drama's merit over French classical traditions, he champions national identity while critiquing perceived limitations in French theatre. This analysis reflects the broader context of 17th-century England as it grapples with its artistic heritage amidst political changes, highlighting an evolving sense of cultural pride that would influence subsequent generations of writers.

Related terms

Unity of Time, Place, and Action: A set of classical principles governing drama, stating that a play should take place within a single day, in one location, and revolve around one primary plot.

Heroic Drama: A form of serious drama popular in the 17th century that often features noble characters and grand themes, exemplified by Dryden's own works.

Critical Response: The analysis and evaluation of literature that involves personal interpretation and the application of theoretical frameworks, pivotal in shaping modern literary criticism.