The Correspondence of John Dryden

The correspondence of John Dryden is the definitive edition of the letters of the most important playwright and poet of the late seventeenth century, placed in the context of contemporaneous and current debates about literature, politics, and religion. It contains a full biographical, textual introduction, and calendar of letters, and is transcribed diplomatically and structured chronologically.

Format: Hardback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2022
Publisher: Manchester University Press

The correspondence of John Dryden is a remarkable and comprehensive edition of the letters written by the most influential playwright and poet of the late seventeenth century. Spanning several decades, this newly transcribed collection of letters provides a profound insight into the life and times of Dryden, as well as his interactions with a wide range of individuals, including literary figures, politicians, and religious scholars.

Dryden's correspondence not only sheds light on his literary achievements but also on the broader cultural and political landscape of his era. He engaged in heated debates with fellow writers, politicians, and religious leaders, challenging their ideas and shaping the intellectual discourse of the time. Through his letters, we gain a unique perspective on the social, political, and religious controversies of the seventeenth century, including the English Civil Wars, the Glorious Revolution, and the development of the Anglican Church.

Moreover, Dryden's correspondence offers a valuable account of the relationship between an author and his bookseller of the time. He discusses the challenges of publishing, the distribution of his works, and the financial considerations involved in the literary industry. This provides a fascinating glimpse into the business aspects of writing and publishing during the seventeenth century, which is often overlooked in studies of literature.

The Illustrated Correspondence, which accompanies the letters, includes a comprehensive biographical introduction and a chronological calendar of letters. The text is transcribed diplomatically, ensuring accuracy and clarity, and is structured chronologically to provide a clear narrative. Contextualizing sections about particular correspondences further enhance our understanding of the letters and their historical significance.

This edition of Dryden's correspondence is intended for a wide readership, including undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students, as well as academics with an interest in seventeenth-century literature, politics, religion, and culture. The editor, Professor David Womersley, has done an exceptional job in bringing together this collection of letters and providing valuable insights into the life and work of John Dryden.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Professor Womersley received the MLA Morton N. Cohen Award for a Distinguished Edition of Letters. This award is a testament to the significance and importance of this edition, which will undoubtedly be a valuable resource for scholars and students for years to come.

In conclusion, the correspondence of John Dryden is a truly remarkable work that offers a wealth of information and insights into the life and times of one of the most influential figures of the seventeenth century. This definitive edition provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of literature, politics, religion, and culture during this period, and will be of great interest to scholars and students alike.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526136367