Publisher's Synopsis
Discourses on Satire and Epic Poetry is a collection of essays written by John Dryden, a prominent English poet, playwright, and literary critic of the late 17th century. The book is a treatise on the nature and purpose of satire and epic poetry, and it offers insights into Dryden's own views on these literary genres. In the first part of the book, Dryden discusses the nature of satire and its role in society. He argues that satire is a powerful tool for exposing vice and folly, and that it can be used to effect social and political change. He also discusses the different types of satire, including Horatian and Juvenalian satire, and provides examples of each.In the second part of the book, Dryden turns his attention to epic poetry. He discusses the characteristics of the epic form, including its use of elevated language, heroic themes, and grand scope. He also provides a detailed analysis of the works of Homer, Virgil, and Milton, and compares their approaches to epic poetry.Throughout the book, Dryden offers his own opinions on various literary topics, including the importance of language, the role of the poet, and the relationship between literature and society. His writing is clear and persuasive, and his insights into the nature of satire and epic poetry continue to be relevant to modern readers. Overall, Discourses on Satire and Epic Poetry is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history and theory of literature.An heroic poem (truly such) is undoubtedly the greatest work which the soul of man is capable to perform. The design of it is to form the mind to heroic virtue by example; it is conveyed in verse that it may delight while it instructs. The action of it is always one, entire, and great. The least and most trivial episodes or under- actions which are interwoven in it are parts either necessary or convenient to carry on the main design.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
