Jon Dryden was born in 1631 and dead in 1700, he was one of the most influential writers for English literature. He was better know for his poems. There even existed a period called The Age of Dryden because of his plays which took part of the English Restoration.
He lived while Charles II was the king. John Dryden was ordered of Garter (his life was very eccentric) Due to his participation in the kingdom he was one of the causes of the war of 3 kingdoms; in this war participated Ireland, Scotland and England- of course-. The so called war ended with Charles I execution.
Puritans
Forbided his plays and representations, because they though it was sacrilege, for instance, giving gifts and greetings in Christmas. Even though it was very common to see plays during that epoch. Also, it is important to mention that plays where performed in King's palace with the king's company. After all, Dryden became a shareholder of the company.
Characteristics
Dryden used to write Poetic Novel (dramatick poesy), he criticized literacy and made very political writings. He was a French drama translator-for example- Horatio.
The Hind and The Panther
This work was written in 1687 and was a very long poem. It was divided in 3 parts. Also very controversial.
1st Part:
It made descriptions of religious denominations by comparing them with animals.
Hind: Catholic church, when trouble it run and stay always the same.
Panther: English church, defend its ideas.
Bear: Independent church.
Rabbit: quakers.
Fox: Socinians.
Apes: free thinkers; without religion.
Wild pig: Anabaptist.
2nd Part:
Talks about Eucharist; when the substances are transformed in the body and blood of Jesus. Showed the posture and thinking of Catholic churches.
3rd part:
The political part. The wigs represented the political parties and are the main topic. Also talks about the Stuart Dynasty versus the Roman Catholic church.