John Dryden: The greatest poet and critic of English literature

John Dryden (1631-1700) was a great poet, playwright and critic of English literature. He is considered to be one of the most influential writers of the 17th century. He is considered a representative writer of the Restoration era of English literature. Dryden made unparalleled contributions in all three fields - poetry, drama and criticism.

John Dryden Biography

Born	9 August 1631 Aldwincle, Northamptonshire, England
Died	1 May 1700 London, England
Spouse	Lady Elizabeth Howard
Children	Charles, John, and Erasmus Henry
Alma mater	Westminster School Trinity College, Cambridge
Occupation	Poet literary critic playwright librettist
Writing career
Language	English
Period	1659–1700
Genre	Satire playwright fable poetry essay  libretto translation
Subject	Politics and other
Literary movement	Classicism

EARLY LIFE AND CAREER 

Dryden was born on 9 August 1631 in Northamptonshire, England. He was educated at Westminster School and then Trinity College, Cambridge University. From childhood, he was a studious person and interested in writing.

CONTRIBUTIONS 

Dryden's writings gave a new direction to English poetry and drama. His major works include the following:

• Absalom and Achitophel (1681): A political Satire, one of the greatest works 
• Mac Flecknoe: This is a Famous Satire where he criticises his contemporaries.
• An Essay of Dramatic Poesy (1668): This English Essay Expresses his thoughts on treatise on performing arts and poem
• The Hind and the Panther: This is a religious allegorical poem in which he expressed his religious beliefs.

DRYDEN AND DRAMA 

Dryden also wrote several plays, such as "All for Love", which was a rewrite of Shakespeare's "Antony and Cleopatra". His dramatic style was characterized by clarity, power of dialogue and socio-political commentary.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

In 1668, John Dryden was given the title of “Poet Laureate”. This was a highly honorable position, which was given to him for his outstanding poetic contribution.

DEATH

John Dryden died on 1 May 1700 in London. He was buried in Westminster Abbey, where many other famous writers are buried.