The Poetical Works of John Dryden, Volume 2 With Life, Critical Dissertation, and Explanatory Notes

This volume gathers a substantial portion of John Dryden’s poetry, from his early heroic verses to his later, more reflective odes. The selection showcases his sharp wit, classical learning, and the evolving tone that marked the Restoration’s literary landscape. Complementing the verses are detailed explanatory notes that illuminate obscure references and archaic language, making the works accessible to modern ears.

Opening the collection, Rev. George Gilfillan offers a thoughtful essay on how to judge a poet’s moral and aesthetic choices against the backdrop of his own age. He argues for a balanced view that respects the conventions of the period while still scrutinising the artist’s personal responsibility for taste and content. Listeners will appreciate how this framework deepens the experience of Dryden’s verses, revealing both their historic vigor and timeless resonance.