John Dryden - The Spanish Friar: or, The Double Discovery

The life of John Dryden, a pivotal figure in English literature, showcases his journey from a King's Scholar at Westminster School to becoming the Poet Laureate and historiographer royal. His early works, like "Heroic Stanzas," marked the transition from the Commonwealth to the Restoration, while his theatrical endeavors flourished after the reopening of the theatres. Notable for his historical poem "Annus Mirabilis," Dryden's influence spanned poetry, plays, and translations, culminating in his ambitious translation of "The Works of Virgil." He passed away in 1700, leaving a lasting legacy.