Essay on Dramatic Poesy

Exploring John Dryden’s “Essay on Dramatic Poesy (1668)”

Introduction: “An Essay of Dramatic Poesy” by John Dryden, written in 1668, stands as a seminal work of English literary criticism. In this essay, Dryden engages in a lively dialogue with three fictional characters, exploring various aspects of drama and defending English theater against its French counterparts. Let’s undertake a comprehensive analysis of this influential essay, covering all its key aspects.

1. Historical Context:

1. The essay was written during the period of the English Restoration, a time of significant cultural and literary revival.
2. It reflects the ongoing debate between English and French literary traditions, particularly in the realm of drama.

2. Structure and Format:

2. Structured as a dialogue among four characters: Neander (Dryden’s persona), Crites, Lisideius, and Eugenius.
3. Each character represents a different viewpoint on the nature and merits of drama, allowing Dryden to present multiple perspectives on the subject.

3. Defense of English Drama:

3. Dryden, speaking through Neander, defends English drama against the strictures of French neoclassical critics.
4. He argues that English playwrights, particularly Shakespeare, surpass their French counterparts in the portrayal of human nature and the variety of dramatic genres.
5. Dryden celebrates the vitality and diversity of English theater, highlighting its ability to capture the complexities of human experience.

4. Comparison of Dramatic Traditions:

4. Dryden, through the characters of Lisideius and Eugenius, compares the merits of French and English drama.
5. Lisideius presents the French neoclassical view, emphasizing the importance of unity, decorum, and verisimilitude in drama.
6. Eugenius counters by championing the flexibility and inventiveness of English theater, which he believes better reflects the richness and diversity of life.

5. Critical Principles:

5. Dryden articulates several critical principles throughout the essay, including the importance of verisimilitude, poetic justice, and the unity of action.
6. He defends the use of rhyme in English drama, arguing that it enhances the musicality and memorability of verse.

6. Reconciliation of Contrary Views:

6. Despite the spirited debate among the characters, Dryden ultimately seeks to reconcile their contrary views.
7. He acknowledges the merits of both French and English drama, suggesting that each tradition has its own strengths and weaknesses.
8. Dryden advocates for a pragmatic approach to dramatic criticism, one that appreciates the diversity of dramatic expression while upholding certain universal standards of excellence.

7. Legacy and Influence:

7. “An Essay of Dramatic Poesy” had a significant impact on the development of English literary criticism.
8. It helped establish the principles of neoclassical literary theory in England, influencing subsequent generations of critics and playwrights.
9. Dryden’s defense of English drama against foreign models contributed to the emergence of English literary nationalism.

Conclusion: John Dryden’s “Essay of Dramatic Poesy” remains a landmark work of English literary criticism, celebrated for its erudition, wit, and rhetorical skill. Through the medium of dialogue, Dryden presents a nuanced and multifaceted exploration of the nature and value of drama, defending English theater against its French rivals while also acknowledging their respective merits. The essay continues to be studied and admired for its insights into the complexities of dramatic art and its enduring relevance to the study of English literature.