Homage to John Dryden: Three Essays on Poetry of the Seventeenth Century
by T. S. Eliot (1888–1965)
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- 45 min read
- 4 chapters
- Reading level: 10th to 12th grade
"Homage to John Dryden: Three Essays on Poetry of the Seventeenth Century" by Eliot is a collection of critical essays written in the early 20th century. The book examines the poetry of the seventeenth century, focusing particularly on John Dryden, the metaphysical poets, and Andrew Marvell. It explores the elegance, dignity, and unique qualities of poetry from this era, contrasting it with the popular verse of later periods. In these essays, Eliot seeks to revive appreciation for John Dryden's work, arguing that his genius extends beyond satire to a profound mastery of language that has often been overlooked. He discusses the characteristics of metaphysical poetry, particularly the complex interplay of ideas and emotions that defined poets like John Donne and Andrew Marvell. Through insightful analysis, Eliot highlights the sophistication and relevance of seventeenth-century poetry, emphasizing its contributions to the broader trajectory of English literature and calling for a renewed understanding of its merits.
- English poetry · Early modern, 1500-1700 · History and criticism
- Great Britain · Intellectual life · 17th century
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I. John Dryden
If the prospect of delight be wanting (which alone justifies the perusal of poetry) we may let the reputation of Dryden sleep in the manuals of literature. To those who are genuinely insensible of his genius (and these are probably the majority of living readers of poetry) we can only oppose illustrations of the following proposition: that their insensibility does not merely signify indifference to satire and wit, but lack of perception of qualities not confined to satire and wit and present in the work of other poets whom these persons feel that they understand. To those whose taste in poetry is formed entirely upon the English poetry of the nineteenth-century—to the majority—it is difficult to explain or excuse Dryden: the twentieth century is still the nineteenth, although it may in time acquire its own character. The nineteenth century had, like every other, limited tastes and peculiar fashions; and, like every other, it was unaware of its own limitations. Its tastes and fashions had no place for Dryden; yet Dryden is one of the tests of a catholic appreciation of poetry.
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This free edition of Homage to John Dryden: Three Essays on Poetry of the Seventeenth Century by T. S. Eliot comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #63547, released 2020-10-25. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: Poetry, Essays, Letters & Speeches, British Literature.
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