John Dryden

(1631–1700)
1. Life and Times: John Dryden lived during the Restoration
period in England, which followed the Puritan Interregnum.
He was born in 1631, lived through the English Civil War, the
Commonwealth, and witnessed the restoration of the
monarchy under Charles II.
2. Literary Output: Dryden was a prolific writer with works
spanning various genres, including poetry, drama, and prose.
He played a crucial role in shaping the literary landscape of
his time.
3. Poet Laureate: In 1668, Dryden was appointed as Poet
Laureate, a position he held for the rest of his life. This role
solidified his connection to the royal court and established
him as a leading literary figure of the time.
4. Versatility: Dryden's versatility as a writer is evident in his
ability to excel in different forms of poetry. He wrote heroic
couplets, satires, odes, and elegies, showcasing his mastery
over various poetic styles.
5. Heroic Couplets: Dryden was a pioneer in the use of heroic
couplets, a rhyming pair of iambic pentameter lines. His skill
in employing this form greatly influenced later poets and
became a hallmark of the Augustan Age.
6. Satire and Criticism: Dryden was known for his sharp wit and
satirical works. His "Absalom and Achitophel" is a notable
political satire, while his critical essays, such as "An Essay of
 Dramatic Poesy," contributed significantly to the
development of literary criticism.
7. Dramatic Works: Dryden wrote numerous plays, both
tragedies and comedies. One of his well-known tragedies is
"All for Love," a reimagining of Shakespeare's "Antony and
Cleopatra."
8. Religious and Political Views: Dryden's works often reflected
the political and religious tensions of his time. He converted
to Catholicism later in life, a move that influenced some of his
later writings and strained his relationship with the
predominantly Protestant society.
9. Influence on Restoration Drama: Dryden's contributions to
the development of English drama during the Restoration era
were significant. He adapted and refined the principles of
French classical drama, bringing a new level of formalism to
the English stage.
10. Legacy: John Dryden's impact on English literature is
enduring. His works influenced the Augustan poets of the
18th century, and his contributions to the development of
poetic forms and literary criticism continue to be studied and
admired today.