Tuesday, September 12, 2023

Bridge Course 2: Dryden's Essay on Dramatic Poesy




I Write a blog on any two of these points: 
a) Do you any difference between Aristotle's definition of Tragedy and Dryden's definition of Play?

Ans.1   Yes,we see difference because Aristotle says that tragedy is an imitation of an action Aristotle believes that there is natural pleasure in imitation where as Dryden define play as just and lively image of human nature representing it is passion and humorous and the change of fortune to which it is subject for the devite and instructions of man kind .

b) If you are supposed to give your personal predilection, would you be on the side of the Ancient or the Modern? Please give reasons.


Ans.1   According to me, it is not necessary that Modern always tries to copy from the Ancient, may be that sometimes there is new idea also which is presented by Modern. But generally we find that many times Modern takes ideas from Ancient and tries to present it in a different and unique manner. Thus, Modern tries to explain ideas to people and show them a different way to think. So, according to me , both are appropriate with their own ideas , Ancient gives ideas and Modern tries to represent it in a different way according to current time.


In the choice between Aristotle's ancient definition of tragedy and Dryden's more modern perspective on playwriting ultimately depends on personal preferences and the specific goals of the playwright. While both perspectives have their merits, they offer distinct approaches to the art of storytelling and continue to influence the world of literature and drama in unique ways.


Do you think that the arguments presented in favour of the French plays and against English plays are appropriate? (Say for example, Death should not be performed as it is neither 'just' not 'liely' image, displaying duel fight with blunted swords, thousands of soldiers marching represented as five on stage, mingling of mirth and serious, multiple plots etc.)

I think arguments are presented in the favour of English plays. The plots of French plays are barren while English ones are copious to further the same action. The English plays have numbers of plots with the main plot and audience is important because of that in English plays, there are all types of themes.



What would be your preference so far as poetic or prosaic dialogues are concerned in the play? 


I think both are equally important and mostly doesn't matter it is prosaic or poetic only matters is meaning or the depth of the dialogue. Well rhymed and metric poetic lines if don't have depth of meaning than that rhymed lines are worthless. So baisically it doesn't matter the dialogues are in prosaic lines or poetic lines the deep understandig which dialogue gives that is important and every dialogue may be don't need to give deep meaings then even it is upon writers choice in which he wants to write.



Que.  
any topic of you choice but pertaining to Dryden as 'Father of English Criticism'

Certainly, one of John Dryden's significant contributions to English literature is his role as a pioneer in English literary criticism. He is often referred to as the "Father of English Criticism" due to his profound influence on the development of literary criticism in the English language. Here are some key aspects that highlight Dryden's significance as the "Father of English Criticism":

Introduction of Neoclassical Criticism: Dryden played a pivotal role in introducing neoclassical principles of criticism to English literature. He was a strong advocate for adhering to the rules of classical literature, particularly those of ancient Greek and Roman writers. His critical essays and prefaces emphasized the importance of following classical models and principles in poetry and drama.


Elevation of Critical Discourse: Dryden elevated the discourse of literary criticism in England. His critical works, including "An Essay of Dramatic Poesy" and "Of Dramatick Poesie, an Essay," are notable for their clarity, depth, and systematic approach to analyzing literature. He set a high standard for critical writing, inspiring later generations of critics.


Defending English Literature: Dryden defended English literature against the attacks of its critics. During a time when English literature was often viewed as inferior to classical works, Dryden championed the value and excellence of English literature. He argued that English writers could achieve greatness by following classical principles while adapting them to the English language and context.


Development of Literary Criticism as a Genre: Dryden's essays on literature and drama helped establish literary criticism as a distinct and respected genre of writing in English. His critical writings served as models for later critics, shaping the way literature was analyzed, interpreted, and discussed in English-speaking academia.


Critical Appreciation of Shakespeare: Dryden's essay on Shakespeare, titled "An Essay on Dramatic Poesy," is a seminal work that contributed to the growing appreciation of Shakespeare's genius. While Dryden had his reservations about certain aspects of Shakespeare's plays, he recognized Shakespeare's immense talent and influence on English drama.


Literary Authority: Dryden's reputation as a prominent poet and playwright lent credibility to his critical opinions. His status as a literary authority in his time made his critical writings influential and widely read.

In summary, John Dryden's role as the "Father of English Criticism" stems from his pioneering efforts in establishing the principles and practices of literary criticism in the English language. His critical writings laid the foundation for subsequent generations of critics and scholars, shaping the way literature was evaluated and appreciated in England and beyond.



















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