John Dryden
John Dryden was a prominent English poet, playwright, and literary critic born on August 9, 1631, in Aldwinkle, Northamptonshire. Known for his influential role in the development of English literature during the Restoration period, Dryden’s work spans across various genres, including comedy, tragedy, and satire. His keen wit and mastery of language allowed him to address social and political issues of his time, making his writing both relevant and engaging. Dryden's ability to blend classical influences with contemporary themes set a standard for poets and dramatists that followed.
As you explore his extensive body of work in this app, you will encounter his famous poems like "Absalom and Achitophel" and his remarkable plays such as "All for Love." Dryden's talent for weaving intricate narratives and his sharp insights into human nature make his writings a joy to discover. Whether you are familiar with his works or new to them, there's something timeless and thought-provoking in his contributions to literature. Enjoy your journey through the pages of John Dryden!
Absalom and Achitophel
Read by Thomas A. Copeland
John Dryden
John Dryden published Absalom and Achitophel: A Poem in 1681. It is an elaborate historical allegory using the political situation faced by …
The Tempest
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John Dryden
John Dryden and William D'Avenant's Restoration adaptation of Shakespeare's The Tempest preserves the main plot and characters of the origin…
The Poetical Works of John Dryden, Volume 1
Read by Peter Tucker
John Dryden
The first of two volumes of collected poetry by this revered and highly influential English restoration poet and playwright. The poems, many…
All for Love; or, The World Well Lost
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John Dryden
All for Love is widely considered to be John Dryden's finest work, dramatic or otherwise. A tragedy written in blank verse, it retells the s…
Dryden vs Shadwell - a Poetic Duel
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John Dryden
Throughout history there have been many creative artists whose fame depends largely on their association with a much greater artist. Such th…
King Arthur
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John Dryden
King Arthur, or The British Worthy, is a play or Semi-Opera with a libretto by John Dryden and music by Henry Purcell. It was first performe…
John Dryden & Miriam Smith A Tokyo Murder
John Dryden and Miriam Smith
A Tokyo Murder is a gripping afternoon play that weaves together three stories linked by the mysterious murder of a British teacher, Daisy W…
Odes, Songs and Lyrical Pieces
Read by Alan Mapstone
John Dryden
John Dryden was an English poet and playwright who was the first person to hold the title of Poet Laureate.Many of Dryden's lyrics were desi…