Bridge Course -2 : Dryden's Essay on dramatic poesy

 "Dryden's dramatic poesy"

Introduction :-

This thinking activity on the amazing topic that is Dryden's Essay on dramatic poesy. In this blog I will define two topics that are based on Dryden's dramatic poesy. This task assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad sir.

John Dryden
(1631-1700)

Let's we discuss in detail about these two topics one by one...

Topic 1 : 

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

Discussion :

Yes definitely we can find, there are some differences between Aristotle's definition of tragedy and John Dryden's definition of a play. Now we will discuss in one by one.

Aristotle's defination of tragedy :-

Aristotle, in his work "Poetics," defined tragedy as a form of drama that arouses feelings of pity and fear in the audience. Aristotle's works leading to some various points like catharsis, or emotional cleansing. Aristotle emphasized the importance of a tragic hero, a character of noble stature who has downfall due to a tragic flaw shows the concept of Hamartia. Aristotle also introduced the concept of the three unities: unity of time, unity of place, and unity of action, which he believed should be maintained the structure of tragedy.

Dryden's defination of play :-

John Dryden was an English playwright and also critic. John Dryden had a broader definition of a play that was not limited to tragedy. First Dryden learnt any topic and then he tried to criticised in a creative manner and he believed in divine and pleasure. According to Dryden a play as a work of drama designed for only entertainment and enjoyment purpose. Dryden didn't specifically focus on the emotional purging aspect or the tragic hero as Aristotle did. Instead, he embraced a more inclusive approach to drama.

In short, we can analyse that the Aristotle's focus is on tragic elements and specific principles for creating a powerful emotional experience, while Dryden's definition encompasses a wider range of dramatic works for general entertainment.

Topic 2 :

Any topic of you choice but pertaining to Dryden as 'father of English  Criticism'.

Discussion :

John Dryden is often considered to as the "father of English literary criticism" for his valuable contributions to the development of literary criticism during the late 17th century. John Dryden was a prominent figure of the Neo-Classical ideal. There are certain points to identify the Dryden as "father of English Criticism".

1. Introduction of Neoclassical ideals :-

Dryden played a significant role in introducing and popularizing neoclassical ideals in English literature. He advocated for the use of classical models, particularly those from ancient Greece and Rome, as the standard for literary excellence.

2. Preface to "Troilus and Cressida" :-

In his famous preface to his translation of Chaucer's "Troilus and Cressida. He championed clarity, decorum, and regularity in poetry, believing that literature should adhere to classical rules of structure and language.

3. The Role of Critic as Interpreter :-

Dryden believed that the critic's role was not just to judge works but also to explain and interpret them. And he believed that the providing a true guidance and good context to readers it will helps to understand and appreciate literature.

4. Defending English Literature :-

Dryden defended English literature against critics who argued that it was inferior to ancient Greek and Roman literature. He gave the remarkable contribution in defending such kind of precious English Literature.

5. Influence on Future Critics :- Dryden's ideas and principles had a lasting impact on English literary criticism. His works inspired and guided later critics, and his neoclassical approach continued to shape the study of literature well into the 18th century.

In sum up :-

I personally really very appreciate to John Dryden's role as the "father of criticism" stems from his foundational contributions to the development of neoclassical literary theory and his efforts to define and defend the principles of good literature, which had a profound and lasting influence on English literary criticism.

Go through this link you will find more about Dryden as "father of Criticism".

https://youtu.be/eeevRKMgXDU?si=5zDoUKesxbD_KjWD

Resources :-

Aristotle 's elements of tragedy :-

(https://youtu.be/_TYY46RgnvQ?si=JFso7RXsNyjLrffX)

Dryden's elements of play :-

(https://youtu.be/VC2-pHn1Rbg?si=IcPFGZmXlW2QwS1Z)

Thank you...😀 Happy Learning... 😀