John Dryden Books

An elegant and witty writer, poet laureate from 1668, Dryden was on of the majordramatists, critics and poets of his age.

A thrilling new novel, inspired by the award-winning podcast.

Set against the backdrop of 17th-century England, this allegorical poem explores the political and religious conflicts of the era. Through its characters, Dryden reflects the tensions between differing faiths and ideologies, using rich symbolism to engage with the controversies of his time. As a significant work of the Restoration period, it offers a deep commentary on the societal issues that shaped the landscape of England during the late 1600s.

The classic respected series in a stunning new design.

All for Love - or, The world well lost. A tragedy as it is acted at the Theatre-Royal; and written in imitation of Shakespeare's stile is an unchanged, high-quality reprint of the original edition of 1678. Hansebooks is editor of the literature on different topic areas such as research and science, travel and expeditions, cooking and nutrition, medicine, and other genres. As a publisher we focus on the preservation of historical literature. Many works of historical writers and scientists are available today as antiques only. Hansebooks newly publishes these books and contributes to the preservation of literature which has become rare and historical knowledge for the future.

This is a reproduction of a book published before 1923. This book may have occasional imperfections such as missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. that were either part of the original artifact, or were introduced by the scanning process. We believe this work is culturally important, and despite the imperfections, have elected to bring it back into print as part of our continuing commitment to the preservation of printed works worldwide. We appreciate your understanding of the imperfections in the preservation process, and hope you enjoy this valuable book.

Employing biblical characters, the poem serves as a political allegory reflecting the Monmouth Rebellion and the Exclusion Crisis in 17th century England. Through the lens of Absalom's rebellion against King David, Dryden critiques contemporary political figures, with Absalom symbolizing James Scott and Achitophel representing the Earl of Shaftesbury. The use of heroic couplets enhances its literary appeal, making it both a poetic masterpiece and a historical commentary that delves into the era's complex political dynamics.

This masterfully curated collection brings together some of the finest poetry ever written by Andrew Marvell, John Dryden, and William Collins. Featuring timeless odes, such as Marvell's 'To his Coy Mistress' and Dryden's 'Annus Mirabilis, ' as well as lesser-known gems, this volume is sure to delight poetry lovers of all ages.

"The Indian Emperor, or The Conquest of Mexico by the Spaniards," written by John Dryden, is a captivating drama set against the backdrop of the Spanish conquest of Mexico. As a sequel to Dryden's earlier work, "The Indian Queen," this play continues the narrative, exploring themes of power, conquest, and the clash of civilizations. At its core, "The Indian Emperor" depicts the dramatic events surrounding the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the New World and their interactions with the indigenous peoples of Mexico. The play follows the ambitious Cortez as he leads his soldiers on a quest for conquest and glory, driven by a desire for riches and territorial expansion. Against this backdrop of colonial ambition, Dryden weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and political intrigue. The romantic subplot centers on the forbidden love between Cortez and Cydaria, an Aztec princess, highlighting the tensions between the conquerors and the conquered. As the Spanish forces advance and the indigenous peoples resist, the play explores the complexities of cultural exchange and the human cost of imperialism. Throughout the narrative, Dryden masterfully balances spectacle with introspection, blending epic battles with moments of intimate drama. His rich language and vivid imagery bring the vibrant world of ancient Mexico to life, immersing audiences in a captivating theatrical experience.

John Dryden was born on August 9, 1631, in Aldwincle, Northamptonshire, and grew up in Titchmarsh. He attended Westminster School as a King's Scholar and graduated with a BA from Trinity College, Cambridge, in 1654. After returning to London during The Protectorate, he worked for Cromwell's Secretary of State, John Thurloe. Dryden was present at Cromwell's funeral in 1658, marking a pivotal moment in English history as the nation transitioned from a Republic to a Monarchy. His literary career began that same year with the publication of "Heroic Stanzas," a tribute to Cromwell. Following the Restoration of the Monarchy in 1660, he celebrated with "Astraea Redux," a royalist poem. With the reopening of theatres, he ventured into playwriting, debuting with "The Wild Gallant" in 1663, though it was not successful. From 1668, he was contracted to produce three plays annually for the King's Company, becoming a shareholder. His 1667 poem "Annus Mirabilis" solidified his status as the leading poet of his time, leading to his appointments as Poet Laureate in 1668 and historiographer royal in 1670. By the late 1690s, he was working on his major translation of "The Works of Virgil," published in 1697. Dryden passed away on May 12, 1700, and was initially buried in St. Anne's cemetery before being reinterred in Westminster Abbey.

Set in Restoration-era London, this comedy weaves a tale of romance and mistaken identities, centered around a whimsical Mock Astrologer who manipulates love lives with his supposed powers. As colorful characters navigate courtship and secrets unfold, the plot reveals broken hearts and unexpected triumphs of true love. With lively dialogue and clever wordplay, the play satirizes societal foibles, showcasing Dryden's prowess in entertaining audiences while exploring timeless themes of love, deception, and the pursuit of happiness.

Set in the court of King Alexander, this tragicomedy delves into the complexities of love, honor, and rivalry among the nobility of 17th-century England. The narrative centers on two noblewomen, Melantha and Doralice, who compete for the affections of Philander, leading to a web of romantic entanglements that highlight the intricacies of desire and conflict.

This adaptation of Shakespeare's renowned play presents a reimagined and expanded narrative crafted by John Dryden and William D'Avenant during the Restoration era. Their collaboration transforms the original story, incorporating new elements and interpretations that breathe fresh life into the classic tale of magic and intrigue.

Set in ancient Mexico, this tragic play explores the tumultuous struggle for power and survival faced by Montezuma, the Aztec emperor, and his wife Zempoalla during the Spanish conquest led by Hernán Cortés. John Dryden, a prominent playwright of the English Restoration, weaves themes of love, betrayal, and the clash of cultures into a gripping narrative that highlights the personal and political turmoil of its characters.

This publication focuses on making historical works accessible through large print, catering specifically to individuals with impaired vision. The Megali publishing house is dedicated to preserving and reproducing these important texts, ensuring that a wider audience can engage with and enjoy classic literature.

Set against the backdrop of a tragic love story, this 1677 heroic drama delves into the final moments of its central characters, drawing inspiration from Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra. Written in blank verse, it showcases John Dryden's efforts to revitalize serious drama. The play explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of human emotion, making it his most celebrated and frequently performed work.

Set against the backdrop of the seventeenth century, the narrative explores the tragic events surrounding the Amboyna massacre, where English traders faced dire consequences amidst colonial tensions. It delves into themes of betrayal, power struggles, and the complexities of international relations during a time of burgeoning trade and conflict in the East Indies. The book offers a detailed account of the political intrigue and cultural clashes that led to this pivotal moment in history, highlighting the human cost of imperial ambitions.

Set in the Mughal Empire, this tragedy delves into themes of ambition, honor, and revenge through the story of Prince Aureng-Zebe. Torn between his duty to his father and his love for Indamora, he navigates a landscape of political intrigue and betrayal. The plot unfolds with shifting alliances and tested loyalties, culminating in a devastating climax. Dryden's poetic language and richly developed characters highlight the complexities of human nature and the dire consequences of unchecked ambition, making the play a timeless classic.

Set in the Restoration period, this comedy play showcases John Dryden's sharp wit and satirical take on the social manners and relationships of the era. First performed in 1667, it cleverly blends humor with insightful commentary, making it a notable work that reflects the cultural dynamics of its time.

Highlighting the literary brilliance of a key figure in English literature, this anthology features a diverse collection of works by John Dryden, encompassing poetry, plays, and critical essays. Compiled and edited by Dryden, it reflects the cultural richness of the Restoration era, showcasing his influence on the literary landscape.

Set during the Reconquista, this dramatic work explores the intense conflict between the Muslim ruler Almanzor and the forces of Ferdinand and Isabella as they vie for control of Granada. The narrative weaves together themes of love, war, and political intrigue, highlighting the complexities of loyalty and betrayal. Through rich language and dynamic characters, Dryden captures the emotional struggles of those caught in the turmoil of power, leading to a gripping climax that reveals their true desires and fears.

Set in a nunnery, this play explores themes of love and desire amidst the constraints of religious life. Written by John Dryden, a prominent 17th-century literary figure, it combines elements of comedy and drama, reflecting on the conflicts between passion and duty. First performed in 1672, it showcases Dryden's skill in crafting engaging narratives that challenge societal norms.

Set in 17th-century London, this witty comedy explores the romantic entanglements of the upper class, highlighting the complexities of love, wealth, and social status. Through sharp dialogue and clever plotting, the author critiques the pretensions and hypocrisies of society while offering insights into human nature and power dynamics. With its lively humor and biting social commentary, the play remains a timeless classic that entertains while provoking thought about love and marriage.

Focusing on accessibility, this book is a reproduction of a historical work presented in large print. The publishing house Megali emphasizes making literature more accessible for individuals with impaired vision, ensuring that important texts remain available to a wider audience.

Set against the backdrop of the Garden of Eden, this opera reinterprets the biblical tale of Adam and Eve's fall from grace. Through the harmonious relationship between the characters and their environment, the story explores themes of innocence and temptation. With music by Henry Purcell, the work vividly brings to life the idyllic paradise and the profound consequences of disobedience, inviting audiences to reflect on the nature of humanity and divine oversight.

This reprint captures the essence of a classic first published in 1857, preserving its historical significance and original content. The book offers a glimpse into the themes and perspectives of its time, making it a valuable resource for readers interested in the literary heritage of the 19th century. Its enduring relevance and insight into the era provide a rich context for contemporary audiences.

John Dryden, appointed England's first Poet Laureate in 1668, played a pivotal role in the literary landscape of Restoration England, earning the era the title "Age of Dryden." Born in Northamptonshire, he quickly rose to prominence as a poet and literary critic after the Restoration, aligning himself with the new government. His works, including "Astraea Redux" and two panegyrics celebrating the monarchy, reflect his engagement with the political climate of his time and his influence on English literature.

Studies of Bible truths is an unchanged, high-quality reprint of the original edition of 1899. Hansebooks is editor of the literature on different topic areas such as research and science, travel and expeditions, cooking and nutrition, medicine, and other genres. As a publisher we focus on the preservation of historical literature. Many works of historical writers and scientists are available today as antiques only. Hansebooks newly publishes these books and contributes to the preservation of literature which has become rare and historical knowledge for the future.

These first two volumes in a four-volume edition of Dryden's poems are the result of a complete reappraisal of the canon, text and context of his work. The text has been prepared from a fresh examination of the early printed editions, and takes account of the large number of manuscript copies which survive. Two recently discovered poems are included here for the first time. Headnotes to each poem provide details of the poem's date, publication history, sources and contemporary reception. Detailed explanations are given of the controversies addressed in his political poems, and particular attention is paid to Dryden's translations from classical writers including Virgil, Horace, Ovid and Lucretius.Volume I covers the poems of Dryden from 1649 to 1681.