The Restoration Age is often called the Age of Dryden due to John Dryden’s significant influence and

prolific output during this period. His dominance in various literary forms and his role as a cultural
figurehead justify this designation. Here are the key reasons why the Restoration Age is named after him:

### 1. **Literary Versatility and Output**

#### Poetry

Dryden was an exceptionally versatile poet. His works include political satires, such as “Absalom and
Achitophel,” which cleverly used biblical allegory to comment on contemporary political events like the
Exclusion Crisis. Other significant poems include “Annus Mirabilis,” which commemorates the events of
1666, and “Mac Flecknoe,” a mock-heroic satire.

#### Drama

Dryden played a crucial role in the revival of English drama after the reopening of theatres in 1660. He
wrote numerous plays, ranging from comedies to heroic tragedies. Notable works include “All for Love,”
a reworking of Shakespeare’s “Antony and Cleopatra,” and “The Indian Emperour,” which exemplify the
heroic drama genre popular at the time.

#### Prose and Criticism

Dryden also made substantial contributions to literary criticism and prose. His “An Essay of Dramatic
Poesy” is a foundational work in English literary criticism, defending the classical unities and advocating
for the value of English drama. This work set the stage for future discussions about literature and
criticism.

### 2. **Cultural and Political Influence**

Dryden was deeply involved in the political and cultural life of his time. He held the position of Poet
Laureate from 1668 to 1689, making him the official poet of the monarchy and a key figure in the
cultural landscape of the Restoration.

#### Court Poet

As Poet Laureate, Dryden wrote poems and plays that celebrated the monarchy and commented on
political events. His work often reflected and influenced public opinion, and he was a major literary voice
supporting the Restoration monarchy.

#### Political Engagement

Dryden’s works often engaged with the political issues of his day, using satire and allegory to critique and
support various political positions. His involvement in the Exclusion Crisis and other political
controversies of the time gave his work a relevance and immediacy that resonated with contemporary
audiences.

### 3. **Mastery of Form and Style**

Dryden was a master of the heroic couplet, a form that became highly influential in English poetry. His
skill in this and other forms set a standard for poetic style and elegance that influenced many
subsequent writers.
#### Heroic Couplet

Dryden’s use of the heroic couplet—rhymed pairs of iambic pentameter lines—became a hallmark of his
style. This form, known for its balance and symmetry, became a dominant mode in English poetry and
was later perfected by poets like Alexander Pope.

#### Clarity and Precision

Dryden’s prose and verse were noted for their clarity, precision, and rhetorical elegance. His ability to
combine sophisticated argumentation with poetic grace set a high standard for English literature.

### 4. **Enduring Legacy**

Dryden’s influence extended beyond his lifetime, shaping the course of English literature in the 18 th
century and beyond. His works were studied, imitated, and admired by subsequent generations of
writers.

#### Influence on Successors

Writers of the Augustan Age, such as Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift, were deeply influenced by
Dryden’s work. They adopted his satirical style, his use of the heroic couplet, and his approach to literary
criticism.

#### Literary Reputation

Dryden’s reputation as a literary giant was solidified during his lifetime and has endured. His
contributions to poetry, drama, and criticism have ensured his place as one of the central figures in
English literary history.

### Conclusion

The Restoration Age is called the Age of Dryden because John Dryden’s prolific and varied body of work,
his significant influence on the literary and cultural life of his time, and his mastery of form and style
made him the preeminent literary figure of the period. His engagement with the political and cultural
issues of the day, combined with his technical skill and innovative contributions to literature, justify the
naming of the era in his honor.

The Restoration Age, also known as the Age of Dryden, spans from 1660, when Charles II was restored to
the English throne, to the early 18th century. This period is marked by significant political, social, and
cultural changes that are vividly reflected in its literature. John Dryden, as the dominant literary figure of
the time, left an indelible mark on this era, hence it is often named after him. Here, we will explore the
characteristics, context, and major figures of the Restoration Age, emphasizing why it is aptly called the
Age of Dryden.

### Historical Context

#### The Restoration of the Monarchy

- **1660**: The monarchy was restored in England with the coronation of Charles II, ending the Puritan
Commonwealth and ushering in a period of relative stability and cultural revival.

- **Political Shifts**: This era saw the development of constitutional monarchy, political factionalism
between the Whigs and Tories, and major events such as the Popish Plot and the Exclusion Crisis.

#### Cultural Revival

- **Theatre and Arts**: The reopening of theatres led to a renaissance in drama and the arts.
Theatrical performances, which had been banned under the Puritans, flourished, with the
introduction of actresses on the English stage and the popularity of Restoration comedy.

### Literary Characteristics

#### Neoclassicism

- **Classical Influence**: Writers looked back to the classical works of ancient Greece and Rome for
inspiration, emphasizing order, decorum, and the use of classical forms and genres.

- **Form and Structure**: There was a focus on polished form, regular meter, and structured verse. The
heroic couplet, perfected by Dryden, became a dominant poetic form.

#### Satire

- **Social and Political Satire**: Satire became a prominent genre, used to critique and mock societal
norms, political corruption, and human folly. Dryden’s works, such as “Absalom and Achitophel,”
exemplify this trend.

- **Wit and Irony**: The period valued wit, irony, and clever wordplay. These elements were used to
both entertain and instruct, reflecting the intellectual spirit of the age.

#### Heroic Drama and Comedy of Manners

- **Heroic Drama**: This genre, popularized by Dryden, featured grandiose themes, elevated language,
and often revolved around noble characters and conflicts of love and honor.

- **Comedy of Manners**: Restoration comedy, epitomized by playwrights like William Congreve and Sir
George Etherege, depicted and satirized the manners and affectations of the upper class. These plays are
known for their sharp dialogue, sexual explicitness, and satirical edge.

### Key Figures

#### John Dryden (1631-1700)

- **Poet, Playwright, and Critic**: Dryden was a versatile writer who made significant contributions to
poetry, drama, and literary criticism.

- **Major Works**:

- **”Absalom and Achitophel”**: A political satire that uses biblical allegory to comment on the
Exclusion Crisis.
 - **”Mac Flecknoe”**: A mock-heroic poem that satirizes Thomas Shadwell.

- **”Annus Mirabilis”**: A historical poem commemorating the events of 1666, including the Great Fire
of London and the Anglo-Dutch War.

- **Plays**: Works like “All for Love” and “The Indian Queen” exemplify the heroic drama of the period.

- **Criticism**: “An Essay of Dramatic Poesy” is a seminal work in literary criticism, defending the
classical unities and the English dramatic tradition.

#### Other Notable Figures

- **William Congreve**: Known for comedies like “The Way of the World,” which exemplify the wit and
social satire of Restoration drama.

- **Samuel Butler**: Author of “Hudibras,” a satirical poem mocking Puritanism and contemporary
politics.

- **John Bunyan**: Though distinct in his Puritan beliefs, his allegorical work “The Pilgrim’s Progress”
reflects the era’s religious and moral concerns.

- **Aphra Behn**: One of the first professional female writers, known for plays like “The Rover” and her
novel “Oroonoko,” which addresses themes of slavery and colonialism.

### Literary and Cultural Impact

#### Development of English Prose

- The period saw the development of a more refined and versatile prose style. Writers like Dryden
and Bunyan contributed to the evolution of English prose, making it more accessible and
expressive.

#### Foundations for the Augustan Age

- The literary principles and forms established during the Restoration Age laid the groundwork for
the Augustan Age, dominated by writers like Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift. The emphasis
on classical ideals, satire, and reason continued to influence English literature well into the 18th
century.

### Why the Age of Dryden?

#### Literary Dominance

- Dryden’s prolific output across multiple genres—poetry, drama, and prose—set the tone for the
literary culture of the time. His mastery of the heroic couplet and his innovations in dramatic and
satirical forms made him the leading literary figure of the era.

#### Cultural Influence

- As Poet Laureate and a prominent public intellectual, Dryden’s works often reflected and
influenced the political and social issues of his day. His engagement with contemporary events
and his role in shaping public opinion were unparalleled.
#### Lasting Legacy

- Dryden’s influence extended beyond his lifetime, shaping the course of English literature in the
18th century and beyond. His works were studied, imitated, and admired by subsequent
generations of writers, cementing his place as a central figure in English literary history.

### Conclusion

The Restoration Age, or the Age of Dryden, is characterized by a revival of the arts, a return to classical
ideals, and the emergence of new literary forms and themes. John Dryden’s dominant presence and
multifaceted contributions to literature justify the naming of the era after him. His impact on poetry,
drama, and literary criticism, along with his role as a cultural commentator, made him the defining figure
of his time.

Satire became popular during the Age of Dryden and Pope due to several interrelated social, political,
and cultural factors. The Restoration and early 18th century were times of significant change and
upheaval, which created fertile ground for satirical expression. Here are the key reasons for its
popularity:

### 1. **Political and Social Unrest**

#### Restoration and Political Turmoil

- **Restoration of Charles II**: The return of Charles II in 1660 restored the monarchy and brought
significant political changes, along with widespread cynicism about political institutions and figures. This
environment was ripe for satirical critique.

- **Factionalism**: The period was marked by intense political factionalism between the Whigs and
Tories. Events like the Popish Plot, the Exclusion Crisis, and later the Glorious Revolution (1688) created a
climate of political instability and distrust.

#### Social Changes

- **Class Mobility and Urbanization**: The rapid growth of cities and the rise of a more mobile, literate
middle class brought new social dynamics and tensions. Satire became a way to comment on and
critique the evolving social order.

- **Moral Decay**: Many perceived a decline in moral standards, particularly after the strict Puritanism
of the Commonwealth period. Satire provided a tool to expose and ridicule the perceived hypocrisy and
vice in society.

### 2. **Intellectual Climate**

#### Enlightenment Thinking

- **Rise of Rationalism**: The Enlightenment emphasized reason, logic, and scientific inquiry. Satire,
with its reliance on wit and reason, aligned well with the intellectual currents of the time.

- **Skepticism**: Enlightenment thinkers often questioned traditional authority and dogma, including
the Church and the monarchy. Satire served as a vehicle for expressing these critiques.

### 3. **Literary Traditions and Influences**

#### Classical Influence

- **Ancient Models**: Writers like Dryden and Pope were heavily influenced by classical Roman satirists
such as Horace, Juvenal, and Martial. They adopted and adapted these classical forms to critique
contemporary society.

- **Rhetorical Training**: Education during this period often included extensive study of classical
rhetoric, which provided the tools and techniques for effective satirical writing.

### 4. **Cultural and Artistic Trends**

#### Theatrical Influence

- **Restoration Comedy**: The reopening of theatres led to a flourishing of Restoration comedy, known
for its sharp wit and satirical treatment of contemporary manners and mores. This trend influenced
other literary forms.

- **Public Performances**: Plays and public readings were popular forms of entertainment, spreading
satirical ideas to a broad audience.

#### Literary Innovations

- **Poetic Forms**: The heroic couplet, perfected by Dryden and Pope, was particularly well-suited to
satire because of its precision and ability to deliver sharp, epigrammatic commentary.

- **Pamphleteering**: The rise of pamphleteering allowed for the rapid dissemination of satirical works.
Pamphlets were often used to lampoon political figures and societal issues.

### 5. **Key Figures and Works**

#### John Dryden (1631-1700)

- **Political Satire**: Dryden’s “Absalom and Achitophel” uses biblical allegory to critique contemporary
political figures and events.

- **Mock-Heroic Satire**: “Mac Flecknoe” mocks Thomas Shadwell, combining heroic style with trivial
subject matter to satirize the poet’s literary pretensions.

#### Alexander Pope (1688-1744)

- **Social Satire**: Pope’s “The Rape of the Lock” satirizes the trivial concerns of the aristocracy through
a mock-epic style.

- **Moral and Literary Critique**: “The Dunciad” attacks dullness and mediocrity in the literary world,
using satirical techniques to criticize contemporary writers and critics.
### 6. **Public Engagement and Literacy**

#### Increased Literacy

- **Broader Audience**: Increased literacy rates, especially among the middle class, expanded the
audience for satirical works. People were more able to engage with and appreciate the subtleties of
satire.

- **Print Culture**: The growth of the printing press and periodicals meant that satirical works could
reach a wide audience quickly and efficiently.

### Conclusion

Satire’s popularity during the Age of Dryden and Pope can be attributed to a combination of political
instability, social change, intellectual currents, classical influences, and literary developments. These
factors created a perfect storm for satire to flourish as a dominant mode of literary expression, allowing
writers to critique, entertain, and influence public opinion. The works of Dryden and Pope exemplify how
satire became a powerful tool for commenting on the complexities and hypocrisies of their time.

“Mac Flecknoe,” written by John Dryden, is a satirical poem that serves as a mock-epic to ridicule the
poet Thomas Shadwell. The poem exemplifies Dryden’s mastery of satire and his ability to use classical
forms to critique contemporary literary figures.

### Summary and Analysis

#### The Structure and Style

“Mac Flecknoe” is written in heroic couplets, pairs of rhymed iambic pentameter lines, which Dryden
uses to create a mock-heroic tone. This style mimics the grandeur of epic poetry, but is applied to a
trivial and derisory subject, enhancing the satirical impact.

#### The Plot

The poem imagines the coronation of Thomas Shadwell as the successor to Richard Flecknoe, a minor
poet whom Dryden depicts as the king of dullness. Shadwell is crowned as the new monarch of literary
dullness, inheriting the “throne” of uninspired writing.

#### Key Themes

1. **Literary Satire**

- Dryden criticizes Shadwell’s literary incompetence and mediocrity. The poem suggests that Shadwell
is the epitome of bad writing, emphasizing his lack of talent and originality.

2. **Mock-Heroic Tone**

- By using the epic form to describe Shadwell’s coronation, Dryden creates a humorous contrast
between the elevated style and the low subject matter. This mock-heroic approach underscores the
absurdity of Shadwell’s literary pretensions.
3. **Political and Personal Rivalry**

- Beyond literary criticism, “Mac Flecknoe” reflects the personal and political animosities between
Dryden and Shadwell. Shadwell was a prominent Whig, while Dryden was a Tory, adding a layer of
political commentary to the poem.

#### Significant Passages

- **Opening Lines**:

- “All human things are subject to decay, / And, when Fate summons, monarchs must obey.”

- These lines set the tone for the poem, introducing the theme of inevitable decline and mocking
Shadwell’s rise to a throne of mediocrity.

- **Flecknoe’s Speech**:

- “Shadwell alone my perfect image bears, / Mature in dullness from his tender years.”

- Flecknoe’s declaration establishes Shadwell as his literary heir, highlighting Shadwell’s supposed
inherent dullness and unworthiness.

- **Description of Shadwell**:

- “In prose and verse was own’d, without dispute, / Through all the realms of Nonsense, absolute.”

- This passage mocks Shadwell’s attempts at both prose and poetry, asserting his dominance only in the
realm of nonsensical writing.

### Historical and Literary Context

#### Dryden’s Literary Critique

“Mac Flecknoe” is part of Dryden’s broader effort to critique the state of contemporary English
literature. By targeting Shadwell, Dryden addresses what he sees as the decline in literary standards and
the prevalence of mediocre writers.

#### The Role of Satire in the Restoration Age

During the Restoration, satire was a popular genre used to address political, social, and literary issues.
Dryden’s “Mac Flecknoe” is a quintessential example, blending humor with pointed criticism to engage
and entertain his audience.

### Conclusion

“Mac Flecknoe” is a masterful example of Dryden’s use of satire to critique literary mediocrity. Through
its mock-heroic style and biting wit, the poem not only targets Shadwell but also reflects broader
concerns about the quality of contemporary literature. Dryden’s ability to combine classical forms with
contemporary commentary makes “Mac Flecknoe” a significant work in the canon of English satirical
poetry.
Certainly! In “Mac Flecknoe,” John Dryden offers a scathing and satirical commentary on the literary
world of his time, using humor and irony to criticize the incompetence and mediocrity of the poet
Thomas Shadwell. Here’s a satirical explanation of the poem:

In “Mac Flecknoe,” Dryden paints a vivid picture of the literary landscape, where talent is scarce, and
dullness reigns supreme. He begins by proclaiming that all things, even monarchs of literature, must
eventually succumb to decay. This sets the stage for the coronation of Shadwell, the heir apparent to the
throne of dullness.

Dryden introduces Richard Flecknoe, a forgettable poet, as the reigning king of mediocrity. When
Flecknoe decides to pass on his crown, he surveys the literary scene for a successor. He settles on
Shadwell, a poet so devoid of talent that he embodies the very essence of dullness from a young age.

Flecknoe’s decision to anoint Shadwell as his heir is both farcical and inevitable, highlighting the
absurdity of the literary establishment. Shadwell, with his uninspired prose and verse, is hailed as the
undisputed ruler of nonsense, a king in a kingdom of mediocrity.

Dryden’s use of the mock-heroic style adds to the comedic effect, elevating Shadwell’s coronation to epic
proportions while simultaneously underscoring its triviality. Through exaggerated praise and extravagant
ceremony, Dryden exposes the emptiness of Shadwell’s literary pretensions and the absurdity of
celebrating such mediocrity.

“Mac Flecknoe” serves as a biting satire of the literary culture of Dryden’s time, where talent often takes
a backseat to patronage and popularity. By lampooning Shadwell and celebrating the reign of dullness,
Dryden invites readers to reflect on the state of contemporary literature and the dangers of settling for
mediocrity over excellence.

Background –

There was 2parties

Tories and Whigs

Tories- supports King, Minarch, Kingdom- John Dryden

Whigs- supports common people, parliament- Thomas Shadwell.

They were not only literary rival, but also political rival.

It Is a mock heroic poem, a reply to Thomas shadewell poem – Medal of John Bayes

The sub title is –“A satire upon the true – blue protestant poet T.S”

Blue is the symbol of whigs

Alexander Pope’s “Epistle to Dr. Arbuthnot” is a satirical poem written in 1734. It addresses his friend
and physician, Dr. John Arbuthnot, but is also a wider commentary on the literary and social scene of the
time. Here’s an overview:

### Summary:

1. **Introduction of Characters**: Pope introduces various literary and social figures of his time,
including himself, Arbuthnot, Jonathan Swift, John Gay, and others.
2. **Pope’s Defense**: Pope defends his own literary efforts against critics who attack him,
particularly those who envy his success. He portrays himself as a harmless poet, unfairly targeted
by jealous rivals.
3. **Attacks on Critics**: Pope launches scathing attacks on his critics, using satire to ridicule their
incompetence and hypocrisy. He mocks their lack of talent and integrity, portraying them as
jealous and petty individuals.
4. **Satirical Sketches**: Throughout the poem, Pope provides satirical sketches of various
individuals, including Lord Hervey, a courtier known for his sycophancy, and Lady Mary Wortley
Montagu, a poet and socialite.
5. **Arbuthnot’s Role**: While the poem is addressed to Arbuthnot, he serves as a moral guide
and voice of reason amidst the chaos of the literary world. Pope expresses gratitude for
Arbuthnot’s friendship and support, portraying him as a source of wisdom and stability.
6. **Conclusion**: The poem concludes with Pope reaffirming his commitment to his craft and his
determination to persevere despite the attacks of his critics. He expresses confidence in his own
abilities and vows to continue writing despite the challenges he faces.

### Themes:

1. **Satire and Criticism**: The poem is a biting satire of Pope’s literary rivals and critics, whom he
portrays as envious and dishonest individuals.
2. **Friendship and Loyalty**: Pope celebrates his friendship with Arbuthnot and portrays him as a
trusted confidant and ally.
3. **Literary Ambition**: The poem reflects Pope’s ambition as a writer and his determination to
succeed despite the obstacles he faces.
4. **Personal Identity**: Pope grapples with questions of personal identity and reputation,
defending himself against attacks on his character and integrity.

### Literary Techniques:

1. **Satire**: Pope employs satire throughout the poem to criticize and ridicule his targets, using
humor and irony to expose their flaws and shortcomings.
2. **Rhetorical Devices**: Pope uses various rhetorical devices, such as irony, exaggeration, and
sarcasm, to enhance the satirical impact of the poem.
3. **Allusion**: The poem is filled with allusions to contemporary events, literary works, and
historical figures, adding depth and richness to the text.

### Overall Impression: …..“Epistle to Dr. Arbuthnot” is a masterful work of satire that showcases Pope’s
wit, humor, and literary skill. It offers a window into the literary and social world of 18 th-century England
while providing insight into Pope’s own struggles and ambitions as a writer. Through its sharp critique
and biting humor, the poem remains a classic example of English satire.

Satire became popular in the Age of Dryden and Pope for several reasons, reflecting the political, social,
and cultural climate of the time:

1. **Political Instability and Factionalism**: The Restoration period was marked by political
turmoil, including the Restoration of the monarchy, the Glorious Revolution, and ongoing
tensions between Whigs and Tories. Satire provided a means of critiquing political figures and
factions, as seen in Dryden’s “Absalom and Achitophel,” which satirized contemporary political
events and figures.
2. **Social Change and Moral Decline**: The period saw significant social changes, including the
rise of the middle class and urbanization. Satire was used to critique the perceived moral decay
of society, including the hypocrisy of the aristocracy and the perceived immorality of urban life.
3. **Intellectual and Cultural Shifts**: The Age of Enlightenment brought a growing emphasis on
reason, skepticism, and critical thinking. Satire allowed writers like Pope and Dryden to challenge
traditional authority and expose irrationality and hypocrisy, aligning with the values of the
Enlightenment.
4. **Literary Critique and Rivalry**: Satire was also a tool for literary critique and rivalry. Writers
engaged in fierce literary feuds, using satire to attack and ridicule their rivals. Dryden and Pope,
for example, targeted fellow poets and playwrights whom they saw as inferior or unworthy of
acclaim.
5. **Accessibility and Entertainment**: Satire was a popular form of entertainment, appealing to a
broad audience with its wit, humor, and sharp social commentary. The rise of print culture and
the proliferation of newspapers, pamphlets, and periodicals made satire more accessible to the
general public.
6. **Classical Influence**: Writers like Dryden and Pope drew inspiration from classical Roman
satirists such as Horace and Juvenal. They adapted and modernized classical satirical techniques,
using them to critique contemporary society and literature.

Overall, satire flourished in the Age of Dryden and Pope due to its versatility as a literary form and its
ability to engage with pressing political, social, and cultural issues of the time. It provided a powerful
means of critique, entertainment, and intellectual engagement, making it a popular and influential genre
in 17th and 18th-century England.