Formulate your understanding of Neo-Classicism
from your reading of Dryden’s An Essay of Dramatic Poesy.
John Dryden’s An Essay on Dramatic Poesy resents a brief
discussion on the Neoclassical theory of literature. He defends the
classical drama saying that it is an imitation of life reflects human nature
clearly.
An Essay on Dramatic poesy is written in the forms of
a dialogue among four gentlemen , Eugenius , Crites, Lisideius ,
Neander(Dryden).
Eugenius favours modern English dramatists by attacking the
classical playwright , who did not themselves always observe the unity of
place. But they invited the principles of Dramatic art paved by
Aristotle and Horace . Crites opposes rhyme in the plays and argues that
though the modern excel in science, the ancient was the true
age of poetry. Lisideius defends the French playwright and attack
tendency to mix genres.
Neander speaks in favour of the moderns and respects
the ancients; he is however critical of the rigid rules of dramas and favors
rhymes. Neander who is spoke person of Dryden , argue that ‘ Tragic-Comedy’ is
the best for play ; because it is closer to life in which emotions
are highlighted by mirth and sadness . he also find sub plot as an
integral part to enrich a play . finds single action in
French dramas to be rather inadequate since it is so often has a narrowing
comparing effects.
Neander speaks and gives his palm to the violation of
three unities because it leads to the variety in English plays. Dryden thus
argues against the neo claasical critics. Since nobody speakes in
rhyme in real life , he supports the use of blank verse in drama and says
that the use of rhyme in serious plays is justifiable in place of
the blank verse.
