The works of John Dryden, now first collected in eighteen volumes. Volume 05

Name: The works of John Dryden, now first collected in eighteen volumes. Volume 05
Author: John Dryden

By John Dryden

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British Literature History - Early Modern (c. 1450-1750)Plays/Films/Dramas Poetry

About This Book

The volume assembles several dramatic pieces alongside prefatory epistles and critical apparatus, combining stage tragedies, a poetic opera on the loss of innocence, and heroic drama that examines ambition, passion, and the moral consequences of power. One tragedy dramatizes a brutal colonial episode and its legal and ethical abuses, while other plays rework classical and historical materials into concentrated explorations of love, honor, and political rivalry. The volume also includes prefaces and a formal defense of heroic poetry and poetic licence, supplying interpretive context and the author's reflections on style, genre, and dramatic method.

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.