Dryden compares French and English plays, discussing the differing views of Lisideius and Neander. Lisideius favors French plays for following rules like the unities of time, place and action, using well-known stories, and having poetic justice. However, Neander argues that English plays are superior as they reject such rigid rules, tell stories as they are, include sub-plots and multiple characters, and provide more entertainment and a "lively imitation of nature".

1. Dryden’s comparative comments
on
French & English Dramas
Paper : Literary Theory & Criticism
 Presented by: Jadeja Poojaba G.
 Roll no.: 25
 Year: 2013, semester -1


2. Dryden’s comparative comments

3. 


“A play ought to be a just &
lively image of human
nature, representing its
passion & humours, & the
changes of fortune to which it
is subject, for the delight &
instruction of mankind.”
Lisideius favours French
Plays,
Neander proves English plays
superior with giving powerful
arguments.

4.  Lisideius’ views
 Following all the
rules
 Unities of time, place,
action
 Well-known stories
 Poetic justice

5.  Purity of action
 Single plot
 Characters
 Narration
 Rhymes

6.  Rejected rules
 No unities
 The story
as it is
 No poetic justice
 Mixture of Tragedy & Comedy
 Sub – plots
 Many characters
 Performance of every scene

7. Opposite to
French plays
 Breaking the rules
 Sub plots
more entertaining


8.  Relief from
heavy tragedy
 Suspension of
disbelief
 “lively imitation
of nature”

10. you