An Essay of Dramatic Poesy

Blank verse refers to poetry that does not employ rhyme; typically, blank verse uses iambic pentameter, which also features in epic poetry (“iambic” describes the pattern of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed one, while “pentameter” indicates a meter of ten syllables per line). Dryden’s essay discusses blank verse with regard to the role of rhyme in dramatic plays. While Crites argues that blank verse is more natural and therefore preferable, Neander disputes his conclusions: “Therefore you concluded, that which is nearest nature is still to be preferred. But you took no notice that rhyme might be made as natural as blank verse by the well placing of the words, &c” (214). In contrast to Crites, Neander concludes that “heroic rhyme,” because it is “the noblest kind of modern verse” (218), elevates the tragedy to its proper and most natural heights.

In concert with wit and nature, a poet must employ appropriate “judgment” in determining the structure of a poem or a play, as well as the language and verse used within it. An important concept to Augustan age poets, judgment restrains fancy and assists the poet in achieving balance.