John Dryden’s An Essay of Dramatic Poesy stands as a significant work in English literary criticism. Written in the form of a dialogue among four characters Crites, Eugenius, Lisideius, and Neander the essay explores key questions about the nature of drama, the value of classical versus modern plays, and the merits of French and English theatre. Throughout the essay, Dryden offers insightful reflections on dramatic art, many of which are remembered through powerful and memorable quotes. These quotes encapsulate his views on imitation, decorum, the unities, and the purpose of drama, making them essential for understanding 17th-century literary theory. Examining the most impactful quotes from An Essay of Dramatic Poesy not only reveals Dryden’s critical genius but also illuminates the broader literary debates of his time.
Quotes on the Nature and Purpose of Drama
Dryden’s reflections on what drama should achieve serve as the foundation of his argument. He emphasizes the power of drama to imitate life, stir emotions, and teach audiences moral truths. One of the most quoted lines is
A just and lively image of human nature, representing its passions and humours.
This quote defines drama as a mirror of humanity. According to Dryden, the purpose of drama is not simply to entertain but to reflect human behavior with accuracy and insight. It is through the imitation of nature that drama gains its relevance and truthfulness.
The Role of Delight and Instruction
Dryden, like other Renaissance thinkers, believed in the dual function of literature to delight and to instruct. In An Essay of Dramatic Poesy, he states
Delight is the chief if not the only end of poesy.
While instruction is valuable, Dryden suggests that the pleasure derived from a play is what draws audiences. Drama must first capture the imagination; moral lessons can follow. This quote highlights Dryden’s practical view of audience engagement and theatrical success.
Quotes on the Unities
The classical unities of time, place, and action derived from Aristotle were central to debates on drama. In the essay, the character Lisideius praises the French for adhering strictly to the unities, while Neander (Dryden’s spokesperson) defends English dramatists like Shakespeare for their more flexible approach.
The unity of time is the most easy to be kept; that of place next; but the unity of action is the hardest of them.
This quote reflects Dryden’s nuanced understanding of the dramatic form. He acknowledges the value of structure but also suggests that strict adherence to rules can be limiting. For him, the unity of action maintaining a coherent plot is the most essential and difficult to achieve.
On Breaking the Unities
Defending Shakespeare’s loose use of time and setting, Neander explains
To run divisions without measure is to make a noise and not music.
This metaphor suggests that structure matters in drama, but it must not come at the expense of emotional rhythm or natural storytelling. Dryden champions balance rather than rigid rule-following, advocating for flexibility where it enhances dramatic effect.
Quotes Comparing Ancient and Modern Drama
One of the essay’s central discussions is the comparison between ancient and modern dramatists. Crites argues for the superiority of the ancients, citing their strict form and rational approach. Eugenius counters that modern writers have surpassed the ancients in both creativity and emotional depth.
The greatest man of the last age, Ben Jonson, was willing to give place to the ancients.
This quote shows Dryden’s respect for classical authority, acknowledging that revered writers like Jonson admired the ancients. However, the dialogue ultimately leans toward modern superiority in terms of imaginative innovation and emotional engagement.
The Need for Imitation and Innovation
Dryden strikes a balance between reverence for the past and admiration for contemporary advancements
We are not tied to a slavish imitation of what has been said before us.
This quote supports the idea that while past models are instructive, they should not limit creativity. Innovation is a key feature of great drama, and dramatists must adapt to the expectations and experiences of their own audiences.
Quotes on French and English Drama
The essay contrasts French and English dramatic traditions. Lisideius admires the elegance and order of French drama, while Neander defends the English style as more emotionally powerful and diverse.
French plays are more regular; the English more full of spirit.
This quote summarizes the essence of the debate. Dryden acknowledges the French adherence to classical form but praises the liveliness and emotional depth of English drama. He suggests that the vitality of the English theatre, though less orderly, makes it more effective in engaging audiences.
Realism versus Artifice
Dryden critiques the French tendency to avoid the portrayal of violence on stage, noting
They banish from the stage what is most proper to it, the representations of murder and battles.
This quote reveals Dryden’s belief that drama should not shy away from intense human experiences. By avoiding action, French drama sacrifices realism and emotional resonance. For Dryden, true dramatic power comes from confronting life’s harsh realities on stage.
Quotes Praising Shakespeare
Throughout the essay, Dryden through the voice of Neander offers great praise for Shakespeare, describing him as a genius who, though imperfect, captured the spirit of human nature better than any other dramatist.
Shakespeare was the man who of all modern, and perhaps ancient poets, had the largest and most comprehensive soul.
This quote is among Dryden’s most famous. It celebrates Shakespeare’s vast emotional and intellectual range. Despite Shakespeare’s disregard for certain rules, Dryden elevates him as the master of human expression and imaginative depth.
On Shakespeare’s Faults
Dryden is not blind to Shakespeare’s flaws, however. He writes
He is many times flat, insipid; his comic wit degenerating into clenches, his serious swelling into bombast.
This honest critique shows Dryden’s balanced judgment. While he praises Shakespeare’s genius, he does not ignore moments of weakness. Such honesty enhances Dryden’s credibility as a critic and illustrates his belief that greatness can coexist with imperfection.
The Enduring Relevance of Dryden’s Quotes
The quotes from An Essay of Dramatic Poesy offer a window into the vibrant literary debates of the Restoration era. Dryden’s critical insights remain influential because they explore enduring questions What makes drama meaningful? Should writers follow classical rules or innovate freely? Is emotional power more important than structural purity?
Through memorable and thought-provoking quotes, Dryden invites readers to reflect on these issues with both passion and precision. His essay continues to inspire students, scholars, and lovers of theatre by combining intellectual rigor with artistic appreciation. Whether defending Shakespeare or examining the unities, Dryden’s words retain their power to provoke and enlighten.