2.1 John Dryden's life and literary career
4 min read•august 1, 2024
John Dryden, born in 1631, was a key figure in Restoration literature. His journey from Puritan roots to royal mirrors the era's political shifts. Dryden's work spanned poetry, plays, and criticism, shaping English literary tastes for generations.
Dryden's career highlights include developing the heroic couplet and reviving English theater. His political satires and translations of classical works showcased his versatility. Despite later career setbacks, Dryden's influence on English literature remained profound.
Dryden's Life and Literary Career
Early Life and Education
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- Born in 1631 to a Puritan family in Northamptonshire, England shaped Dryden's early religious views and moral foundation
- Educated at Westminster School and Trinity College, Cambridge exposed Dryden to:
- Classical literature (Homer, Virgil, Ovid)
- Rhetoric and oratory skills
- Latin and Greek language proficiency
- Early education cultivated Dryden's literary style characterized by:
- Elegant and precise language
- Classical allusions and references
- Logical argumentation and persuasive techniques
Career Milestones and Religious Shifts
- Restoration of monarchy in 1660 marked a pivotal moment in Dryden's career:
- Shifted allegiance to support King Charles II
- Began writing royalist poetry and panegyrics ()
- Appointed Poet Laureate in 1668:
- Solidified position as leading literary figure
- Tasked with composing verses for royal occasions (coronations, victories)
- Increased public visibility and influence on literary tastes
- Converted to Catholicism in 1686 during James II's reign:
- Influenced later writings ()
- Altered political stance and relationships with Protestant contemporaries
- Glorious Revolution of 1688 impacted Dryden's later career:
- Lost position as Poet Laureate
- Faced financial instability and reduced royal patronage
- Focused more on translations and literary criticism
Literary Relationships and Influences
- Interacted with prominent literary figures shaped Dryden's development:
- : Admired Milton's epic poetry despite political differences
- Alexander Pope: Mentored young Pope, influencing next generation of poets
- : Drew inspiration from Jonson's neoclassical style and literary theory
- Engaged in literary debates and controversies:
- Participated in the Ancients versus Moderns debate
- Defended English drama against French neoclassical rules
Dryden in the Restoration
Poetic Innovations and Contributions
- Developed and popularized the heroic couplet:
- Iambic pentameter lines rhyming in pairs (AABBCC)
- Examples: "," ""
- Influenced later poets (Alexander Pope, Samuel Johnson)
- Revived English theater after Puritan ban:
- Wrote both tragedies () and comedies ()
- Experimented with new dramatic forms (, tragicomedy)
- Established himself as leading literary critic:
- "Essay of Dramatic Poesy" (1668) explored dramatic theory and practice
- Defended English drama against French neoclassical rules
- Influenced subsequent generations of writers and critics
Translation and Adaptation
- Translated classical works made ancient literature accessible:
- Virgil's "Aeneid" (considered a masterpiece of English translation)
- Ovid's "Metamorphoses"
- Works of Juvenal and Persius
- Adapted Shakespeare's plays for Restoration audiences:
- "The Tempest, or The Enchanted Island"
- "All for Love" (based on "Antony and Cleopatra")
- Influenced reception and interpretation of Shakespearean works
Official and Satirical Works
- Produced official verses as Poet Laureate:
- Commemorated royal occasions (birthdays, military victories)
- Shaped public discourse on national events
- Wrote political satires engaging with contemporary issues:
- "Absalom and Achitophel" (1681) allegorized Monmouth Rebellion
- "" (1682) critiqued Whig party and Earl of Shaftesbury
- Demonstrated ability to use literature for political commentary
Political and Social Influences on Dryden's Works
Restoration Politics and Culture
- Restoration of monarchy in 1660 favored royalist writers:
- Dryden's early career benefited from pro-monarchy stance
- Wrote panegyrics praising Charles II (Astraea Redux)
- Libertine culture of Restoration court influenced Dryden's works:
- Reflected wit and licentiousness in comedies ()
- Explored themes of sexual intrigue and marital infidelity
- Emergence of political parties provided material for satires:
- Whigs and Tories as targets in "Absalom and Achitophel"
- Used allegory to comment on contemporary political figures
Religious Tensions and Scientific Advancements
- Religious conflicts impacted Dryden's works:
- Protestant-Catholic tensions reflected in "The Hind and the Panther"
- Conversion to Catholicism influenced later religious poetry
- Scientific advancements shaped Dryden's intellectual engagement:
- Founding of Royal Society (1660) promoted empiricism
- Reflected interest in rationalism in works like ""
- Ongoing debates about literary style influenced Dryden's approach:
- Engaged with questions of classical influences in English literature
- Defended English literary traditions in critical essays
Changing Social Dynamics
- Evolving role of women in Restoration society reflected in Dryden's works:
- Strong female characters in plays (Almahide in "")
- Explored changing gender dynamics in comedies (Marriage à la Mode)
- Patronage system influenced Dryden's career and literary output:
- Dedicated works to influential patrons (Earl of Orrery, Duchess of York)
- Loss of royal patronage after 1688 affected later career choices
- Growing middle-class readership impacted Dryden's literary market:
- Wrote prefaces and dedications explaining his works
- Engaged in public literary debates to maintain relevance and readership
Key Terms to Review (24)
Absalom and Achitophel: Absalom and Achitophel is a satirical poem written by John Dryden in 1681 that uses biblical allegory to comment on contemporary political events in England, particularly the political turmoil during the reign of King Charles II. The poem portrays the rebellion of Absalom against his father David, paralleling it with the political factions of Dryden's time, notably the conflict between royalists and those who opposed the monarchy, showcasing Dryden's mastery of political satire and poetic innovation.
All for Love: All for Love is a play written by John Dryden in 1677 that reinterprets Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra. The work is a quintessential example of Restoration tragedy, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and the tragic consequences of passion. It connects deeply to Dryden’s life and career as he sought to establish a distinct form of drama that reflected contemporary emotions and moral dilemmas, showcasing the complexities of human relationships during the Restoration period.
An Essay of Dramatic Poesy: 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.
Astraea Redux: Astraea Redux is a poem written by John Dryden, published in 1660, celebrating the return of Charles II to the English throne after the Interregnum. The term itself symbolizes the restoration of order and justice, drawing on classical imagery of Astraea, the Roman goddess of justice. This work reflects not only Dryden's loyalty to the monarchy but also his belief in the idea of divine right and the importance of stability in governance following a tumultuous period in English history.
Ben Jonson: Ben Jonson was a prominent English playwright and poet of the late 16th and early 17th centuries, known for his sharp wit and satirical style. He played a significant role in shaping English drama during the Renaissance period and was a contemporary of William Shakespeare, often engaging in literary rivalries that highlighted his own contributions to theater and poetry.
Blank verse: Blank verse is a type of poetry that is written in unrhymed iambic pentameter, making it a popular choice for dramatic and narrative poetry. Its flexible rhythm allows for natural speech patterns while maintaining a formal structure, making it an effective medium for serious themes and character exploration. It plays a significant role in various literary contexts, showcasing the evolution of poetic forms and techniques over time.
Defence of an Essay on Criticism: The 'Defence of an Essay on Criticism' is a work by John Dryden that serves to clarify and justify his views on literary criticism as expressed in his earlier poem, 'An Essay on Criticism.' In this defence, Dryden articulates the principles behind his critical philosophy, emphasizing the importance of reason, judgment, and taste in evaluating literature. The work reflects Dryden's commitment to establishing a set of standards for literary appreciation and criticism during a time of rapid change in English literature.
Dramatic Irony: Dramatic irony is a literary device where the audience knows more about a situation than the characters in the story, creating a contrast between their understanding and that of the characters. This technique often builds tension and engages readers or viewers, making them more invested in the unfolding events.
English Civil War: The English Civil War was a series of armed conflicts and political machinations between Parliamentarians and Royalists in England from 1642 to 1651. It stemmed from disputes over how England should be governed and issues of religious freedom, ultimately leading to the trial and execution of King Charles I, the temporary establishment of a Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell, and significant changes to the English monarchy and government.
Heroic drama: Heroic drama is a dramatic genre that combines elements of tragedy and epic poetry, typically characterized by noble characters, grand themes, and elevated language. This genre emerged in the late 17th century as a response to the limitations of earlier forms of theater, often focusing on the ideals of honor, duty, and sacrifice, while reflecting the socio-political context of its time.
John Milton: John Milton was a 17th-century English poet and intellectual, best known for his epic poem 'Paradise Lost,' which explores themes of free will, obedience, and the human condition. His work significantly influenced the literary landscape of the period and connected with major authors and movements that shaped English literature.
Mac Flecknoe: Mac Flecknoe is a satirical poem written by John Dryden, published in 1682, that targets the playwright Thomas Shadwell. The poem presents a mock-heroic narrative where Shadwell is depicted as the king of dullness, showcasing Dryden's sharp wit and criticism of literary mediocrity. This work reflects Dryden's engagement with contemporary literary politics and highlights his own role in the Restoration period's cultural landscape.
Marriage à la mode: Marriage à la mode is a term that refers to a fashionable or trendy marriage, often implying a union based more on social status and economic advantage than on love or affection. This concept often critiques the societal norms surrounding marriage in the late 17th to mid-19th century, especially through the lens of satire and social commentary. It highlights how marriages were often arranged for financial gain or prestige, rather than genuine connection, reflecting broader themes in literature during this period.
Poet Laureate: A poet laureate is an official poet recognized by a government or institution, tasked with composing poems for special events and occasions. This title not only signifies a level of honor but also connects the laureate to national identity and cultural heritage, often reflecting the political and social dynamics of the time. The role has evolved through history, notably during significant periods like the Restoration and the Victorian era, where the chosen poets often became voices for their respective societies.
Political Allegory: Political allegory is a literary device where characters, events, and details within a narrative symbolize real-world political figures, ideologies, or events, often critiquing or commenting on power structures. This technique enables writers to convey complex political messages subtly, often reflecting societal issues and governmental practices of their time while engaging readers on multiple levels.
Religio laici: Religio laici refers to the belief system and religious practices of laypeople, contrasting with those of the clergy. This term emphasizes the importance of faith among the general populace during a time when religious authority was often dominated by church leaders. It highlights the role of individual belief and participation in religious life, particularly in the context of the Restoration period, where such themes were prominent in literature and poetry.
Religious conflict: Religious conflict refers to disputes and confrontations that arise due to differing beliefs, practices, and values among various religious groups. Such conflicts can stem from theological disagreements, political power struggles, or cultural tensions and often have profound social implications. In the context of the 17th to 19th centuries, religious conflict influenced both personal lives and literary expressions, impacting figures like John Dryden as he navigated his own religious identity and the shifting allegiances of the time.
Restoration Period: The Restoration Period refers to the time in English history from 1660 to 1688 when the monarchy was restored after the English Civil War and the Interregnum. This era was marked by significant political, social, and cultural changes, setting the stage for notable developments in literature, including a shift towards realism and the emergence of new genres.
Satire: Satire is a literary technique that uses humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize or mock social, political, or moral issues. It serves as a powerful tool for social commentary and is often employed to provoke thought and encourage reform by highlighting the flaws in individuals, institutions, or society as a whole.
The Conquest of Granada: The Conquest of Granada refers to the capture of the Emirate of Granada, the last Muslim stronghold in Spain, by the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile in 1492. This event marked the end of the Reconquista and had profound implications for Spanish culture, politics, and religion, especially as it influenced later literary works and the reopening of theaters that embraced new dramatic conventions.
The Hind and the Panther: The Hind and the Panther is a narrative poem written by John Dryden in 1687 that uses allegory to explore the political and religious conflicts of the time, particularly relating to the tensions between Anglicans and Catholics. This poem reflects Dryden's own conversion to Catholicism and critiques the political landscape in England during the late 17th century, showcasing his innovative use of poetic form and satire.
The medal: The medal refers to a literary work by John Dryden, specifically a satirical poem that critiques the political and social conditions of his time. Through this poem, Dryden employs irony and wit to comment on the moral complexities of individuals and society, reflecting both his personal experiences and the larger historical context in which he lived.
The wild gallant: The wild gallant is a literary archetype often depicted as a dashing, adventurous young man, characterized by his rebellious spirit and pursuit of pleasure. This figure embodies the conflicts between societal expectations and personal desire, making him a prominent character in the works of playwrights like John Dryden during the late 17th century.
Theatrical critic: A theatrical critic is an individual who reviews and analyzes theatrical performances, providing insights and opinions about various elements of a production, including the script, direction, acting, and overall impact on the audience. These critics play a significant role in shaping public perception and influencing the success or failure of plays, often using their platforms to promote or condemn theatrical works.