The works of John Dryden, now first collected in eighteen volumes. Volume 03

This volume brings together some of John Dryden’s most celebrated stage works, offering listeners a vivid taste of Restoration drama. Among the lively comedies and a stirring tragedy, the centerpiece is Sir Martin Mar‑All, an English reworking of Molière’s farce that showcases Dryden’s clever adaptation skills. The collection is enriched with scholarly notes that illuminate the historical backdrop and the play’s theatrical conventions.

Sir Martin Mar‑All follows the bumbling aristocrat Sir Martin, who feigns innocence while his clever servant Warner pulls strings behind the scenes. As love interests—including the earnest Lord Dartmouth, the formidable Lady Dupe, and the spirited Mrs Christian—tangle in a web of mistaken identities and witty repartee, the audience is treated to sharp satire of courtly pretensions. The brilliant prologue sets a playful tone, promising a comedy where folly and wit collide in the bustling streets of Covent Garden.

Listeners will appreciate the brisk, rhymed dialogue and the vibrant character dynamics that capture the exuberance of 17th‑century London theatre. The play’s brisk pacing and sparkling humor make it an engaging experience, inviting both newcomers and seasoned fans to enjoy Dryden’s masterful blend of satire and slapstick.