John Dryden

John Dryden (1631–1700) was an English poet, playwright, literary critic, and translator who became the dominant literary figure of the Restoration. Born in Northamptonshire and educated at Westminster School and Trinity College, Cambridge, he gained prominence through satire, drama, and occasional verse. Appointed Poet Laureate and Historiographer Royal in 1668, he held the laureateship until 1689. Dryden wrote influential critical essays, helped shape heroic drama and Restoration tragedy, and produced major translations, including works by Virgil. His later poetry includes *Absalom and Achitophel* and *The Hind and the Panther*. He died in London in 1700.