JOHN DRYDEN'S

PALAMON AND ARCITE.

EDITED BY

WARREN FENNO GREGORY, A.M.,

HARTFORD PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL.

PREFACE.

THE fascinating poem here presented is one that, contrary to its deserts, has been but slightly known to the reading public. It is now very properly brought to our notice by being included in the lists for preparatory reading, and when once given to popular acquaintance ought to remain a favorite.

Dryden was an epoch-making writer, and illustrates to a marked degree the reciprocal influence of a literary man and his age. Hence it has seemed best to provide supplementary matter sufficient to give considerable knowledge of his life and work in various lines. The general unfamiliarity with Dryden in comparison with other authors of his rank has made this the more advisable.

The editor would make the usual acknowledgment of indebtedness to the scholarly researches of others, with a special expression of gratitude for the courtesy shown by the librarians of Dartmouth College.

WARREN F. GREGORY.

HARTFORD (CONN.) PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL.

August, 1896.