Free PDF: The Genius Workout — 50 brain teasers + the 25 highest IQs in history.
Blog

John Dryden: Biography, Achievements & Lasting Legacy

John Dryden (; 19 August [O.S. 9 August] 1631 – 12 May [O.S. 1 May] 1700) was an English poet, literary critic, translator, and playwright who in 1668 was appointed England's first Poet Laureate. He is seen as dominating the literary life of Restoration England to such a point that the period came to be known in literary circles as the Age of Dryden. Romantic writer Sir Walter Scott called him "Glorious John".

Key Facts

Legacy and Impact

The influence of John Dryden extends far beyond his own lifetime. He fundamentally shaped literature and the written word, and his written works and literary innovations remain foundational to this day.

Though he passed away in 1700, his ideas continue to be studied, debated, and built upon by scholars and practitioners worldwide.

John Dryden remains one of the most celebrated minds to emerge from England, a testament to the rich intellectual heritage of the region.

Notable Geniuses from England

England has produced many remarkable minds. Alongside John Dryden:

View all geniuses from England →

Discover more brilliant minds in Literature

Explore Literature Geniuses

Explore More

Read the full profile of John Dryden

View John Dryden's Profile →

Explore more geniuses

1,300+ articles · 1,300+ biographies · English

Browse all

Trending Comparisons

Albert Einstein vs Isaac NewtonLeonardo Da Vinci vs Nikola TeslaMarie Curie vs Stephen HawkingAda Lovelace vs Alan TuringBobby Fischer vs John Von Neumann

Top IQ Rankings

Highest IQ in HistorySmartest People Alive TodayHighest IQ Child ProdigiesGreatest PhysicistsGreatest Mathematicians

Child prodigies

Gregory SmithMacaulay CulkinRay UshikuboWilliam Maillis
Child prodigies →Highest IQ child prodigies →

Play & come back tomorrow

🔥 Daily Genius Challenge · Genius trivia
Who is widely considered the first computer programmer?
🧠 Which Genius Are You?📊 Free IQ Test