Essay On Dramatic Poesy Notes -

John Dryden’s An Essay of Dramatic Poesy (1668) is arguably the finest piece of literary criticism in the English language. Written as a dialogue during the Anglo-Dutch War, it is not merely a dry theoretical treatise but a lively debate among four friends floating on a barge on the Thames. For students compiling understanding the context, the four speakers, and the central arguments is essential. These notes will serve as your roadmap through neoclassical criticism, the ancients vs. moderns debate, and the very definition of drama itself.

Dryden wrote the essay during the Great Plague (1665) while the London theaters were closed. His primary goal was to justify the merit of English drama against two main rivals: The classical Greek and Roman playwrights. essay on dramatic poesy notes

: A naval battle is heard in the distance — symbolizing the clash of critical opinions. John Dryden’s An Essay of Dramatic Poesy (1668)

Dryden’s "Essay of Dramatic Poesy" was a turning point for English literature. It moved criticism away from simply obeying old rules and toward an appreciation of . By validating Shakespeare and the "irregular" English style, Dryden paved the way for a more flexible, human-centric approach to theater. These notes will serve as your roadmap through

Argues for the Ancients . He believes the Greeks and Romans reached perfection and that modern writers should simply follow their rules.

When you write your own essay on this text, remember Dryden’s own method: present opposing views generously, use metaphors (the naval battle, the barge), and never let rules stifle the true purpose of drama—to delight and instruct.

John Dryden’s is one of the most important pieces of literary criticism in the English language. Written during the Restoration period, it serves as both a defense of English drama and a foundational text for modern literary theory.