The author traces Dryden's theory of comedy through two main stages of development, 1663-75 and 1675-1700. In the first stage, Dryden conceives of ideal comedy as a heightened mixture of Jonsonian humor and Fletcherian love and wit. In the second stage, naturalness and satire become the key principles, and Shakespeare becomes his primary model.Originally published in 1963.A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.