The works of John Dryden, now first collected in eighteen volumes. Volume 03

Name: The works of John Dryden, now first collected in eighteen volumes. Volume 03
Author: John Dryden

By John Dryden

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British Literature Humour Plays/Films/Dramas Romance

About This Book

This volume collects dramatic works that mix comedy, adaptation, spectacle, and tragedy for the stage. Several plays reshape Continental originals into English comic entertainments that satirize affectation and social pretension through feints, bungled schemes, and romantic complications. Another piece enlarges an island romance with songs, theatrical spectacle, and fantastical incident to suit popular taste. A separate tragedy examines the tensions of love, authority, and conscience with elevated rhetoric. Prefatory essays and critical notes accompany the plays, offering historical context, performance observations, and explanations of textual and theatrical choices.

About the Author

John Dryden

John Dryden (1631-1700) was an influential English poet, playwright, and critic, known for his significant contributions to the literary landscape of the Restoration period. His works often explored themes of love, politics, and morality, showcasing his mastery of both verse and prose. Among his notable plays is "All for Love; Or, The World Well Lost," a tragedy that reflects his deep understanding of human emotions and relationships. Dryden's essays, such as "Discourses on Satire and on Epic Poetry," further illustrate his role as a literary theorist, shaping the discourse of his time. His extensive body of work continues to be studied for its stylistic innovation and cultural impact.