John Dryden: The Father of English Criticism

This blog is a response to the bridge course activity assigned by Professor Dilip Sir Barad.

Introduction:

Welcome to our blog where we delve into the fascinating world of literary criticism and the influential figure often dubbed as the "father of English criticism" - John Dryden.So let's explore his remarkable contributions to the realm of literary analysis and critique.

John Dryden as father of English Criticism  :

     John Dryden is often referred to as the "father of English criticism" because of his significant contributions to the development of literary criticism in the English language during the 17th century. Dryden was not only a renowned poet and playwright but also a prominent literary critic. He wrote several critical essays and prefaces that laid the foundation for modern English literary criticism.

One of his most influential works in this regard is "An Essay of Dramatic Poesy," written in 1668. In this essay, Dryden discusses the principles of drama and defends the use of rhyme in plays. He also introduces the concept of the "unities" of time, place, and action, which had a lasting impact on the analysis of dramatic works.

Dryden's critical writings helped establish a more systematic and analytical approach to literature in English, and his ideas influenced later critics and writers, making him a key figure in the history of English literary criticism.

1. Early Life and Background:

Let's start by getting to know John Dryden a bit better. Born in 1631, Dryden was not only a renowned poet and playwright but also a pivotal figure in shaping the way we analyze and critique literature.

2. The Literary Scene in Dryden's Time:

To understand Dryden's impact, we must first set the stage. During the 17th century, English literature was evolving, and Dryden found himself at the heart of this literary revolution.

3. "An Essay of Dramatic Poesy":

One of Dryden's most influential works is "An Essay of Dramatic Poesy," written in 1668. In this essay, he eloquently discusses the principles of drama, making a case for rhyme in plays and introducing the concept of the "unities."

4. Defining the Unities:

Dryden's introduction of the "unities" of time, place, and action in dramatic works was groundbreaking. These principles aimed to bring clarity and coherence to plays, and they continued to shape dramatic analysis for centuries.

5. Impact on English Criticism:

Dryden's critical writings weren't just significant in his time; they laid the foundation for modern English literary criticism. His systematic and analytical approach influenced later critics and writers, leaving an indelible mark on literary analysis.

6. Legacy and Continuing Influence:

Even today, Dryden's ideas continue to shape how we evaluate literature. His role as the "father of English criticism" remains unquestionable, and his legacy lives on in the way we study and appreciate literature.

In the world of literary criticism, John Dryden stands as a towering figure. His pioneering ideas, as showcased in "An Essay of Dramatic Poesy," have left an enduring impact on how we understand and critique literature in the English language. As we navigate the ever-evolving world of literary analysis, we can't help but acknowledge Dryden's lasting legacy.

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 Do you find any difference between Aristotle's defination of Tragedy and Dryden's defination of play ?

Yes! We can find difference between Aristotle's definition of Tragedy and Dryden's definition of play. 

  Let's compare Aristotle's definition of tragedy and Dryden's definition of a play interactively:

Aristotle's Definition of Tragedy :

- Aristotle believed that a tragedy should be an imitation of an action that is serious, complete, and of a certain magnitude.

- He emphasized the three unities: unity of time (the action should occur within a single day), unity of place (the action should occur in a single location), and unity of action (the plot should have a clear and focused structure).

- Aristotle argued that a tragedy should evoke feelings of pity and fear (catharsis) in the audience.

- Tragedies often focus on the downfall of a noble or admirable character due to a tragic flaw (hamartia).

Example:

  "Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles is a classic example of a tragedy. It adheres to the unities and follows the downfall of King Oedipus due to his tragic flaw, leading to a cathartic emotional experience for the audience.

Dryden's Definition of a Play:

- Dryden's perspective on a play was that it should be a just and lively representation of human nature. It should portray human passions, humors, and the changes of fortune for the delight and instruction of mankind.

- He argued against the strict adherence to the three unities and believed that English plays achieved greater variety, richness, and liveliness by mingling mirth with serious plots and introducing subplots.

- Dryden defended the English practice of mixing tragic and comic elements in a play, believing that mirth did not necessarily destroy the serious effect aimed at in tragedy.

Example:

  William Shakespeare's "Hamlet" is a play that could align with Dryden's definition. It features a complex portrayal of human nature, with a mixture of serious and comic elements. While it doesn't strictly adhere to the classical unities, it offers a rich and varied exploration of its characters and themes.

So, these two definitions reflect different approaches to drama, with Aristotle focusing on the structure and emotional impact of tragedy, while Dryden emphasizes the portrayal of human nature and the flexibility of dramatic form in English plays.