The works of John Dryden, now first collected in eighteen volumes. Volume 07

Name: The works of John Dryden, now first collected in eighteen volumes. Volume 07
Author: John Dryden

By John Dryden

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British Literature Plays/Films/Dramas

About This Book

The volume collects several dramatic pieces and an opera that explore political intrigue and contested authority, staging conspiracies, factional mobilization, and plots against reigning power; characters debate legitimacy, oaths, and religious justification while ambition and public manipulation drive betrayals and violence. The texts combine rhetorical speeches, formal prefaces and dedications, and verse tragedy with occasional masquing and operatic elements, examining how persuasion, patronage, and faction shape public life. Critical notes and a life of the author accompany the plays, situating their partisan themes and theatrical strategies for performances tied to court politics.

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.