'Drury -lane Prologue Spoken by Mr. Garrick' by Samuel Johnson
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1When Learning's triumph o'er her barb'rous foes
2First rear'd the stage, immortal Shakespear rose;
3Each change of many-colour'd life he drew,
4Exhausted worlds, and then imagin'd new:
5Existence saw him spurn her bounded reign,
6And panting Time toil'd after him in vain:
7His pow'rful strokes presiding Truth impress'd,
8And unresisted Passion storm'd the breast.
9Then Jonson came, instructed from the school,
10To please in method, and invent by rule;
11His studious patience, and laborious art,
12By regular approach essay'd the heart;
13Cold Approbation gave the ling'ring bays,
14For those who durst not censure, scarce could praise.
15A mortal born he met the general doom,
16But left, like Egypt's kings, a lasting tomb.
17The Wits of Charles found easier ways to fame,
18Nor wish'd for Jonson's art, or Shakespear's flame,
19Themselves they studied, as they felt, they writ,
20Intrigue was plot, obscenity was wit.
21Vice always found a sympathetic friend;
22They pleas'd their age, and did not aim to mend.
23Yet bards like these aspir'd to lasting praise,
24And proudly hop'd to pimp in future days.
25Their cause was gen'ral, their supports were strong,
26Their slaves were willing, and their reign was long;
27Till Shame regain'd the post that Sense betray'd,
28And Virtue call'd Oblivion to her aid.
29Then crush'd by rules, and weaken'd as refin'd,
30For years the pow'r of tragedy declin'd;
31From bard, to bard, the frigid caution crept,
32Till Declamation roar'd, while Passion slept.
33Yet still did Virtue deign the stage to tread,
34Philosophy remain'd, though Nature fled.
35But forc'd at length her ancient reign to quit,
36She saw great Faustus lay the ghost of wit:
37Exulting Folly hail'd the joyful day,
38And pantomime, and song, confirm'd her sway.
39But who the coming changes can presage,
40And mark the future periods of the stage?--
41Perhaps if skill could distant times explore,
42New Behns, new Durfoys, yet remain in store.
43Perhaps, where Lear has rav'd, and Hamlet died,
44On flying cars new sorcerers may ride.
45Perhaps, for who can guess th' effects of chance?
46Here Hunt may box, or Mahomet may dance.
47Hard is his lot, that here by Fortune plac'd,
48Must watch the wild vicissitudes of taste;
49With ev'ry meteor of caprice must play,
50And chase the new-blown bubbles of the day.
51Ah! let not censure term our fate our choice,
52The stage but echoes back the public voice.
53The drama's laws the drama's patrons give,
54For we that live to please, must please to live.
55Then prompt no more the follies you decry,
56As tyrants doom their tools of guilt to die;
57'Tis yours this night to bid the reign commence
58Of rescu'd Nature, and reviving Sense;
59To chase the charms of Sound, the pomp of Show,
60For useful Mirth, and salutary Woe;
61Bid scenic Virtue form the rising age,
62And Truth diffuse her radiance from the stage.
Editor 1 Interpretation
Samuel Johnson's Masterpiece: A Literary Criticism and Interpretation of "Drury-Lane Prologue Spoken by Mr. Garrick"
Introduction
There are some literary works that are so unique and profound that they transcend time and continue to inspire readers decades or centuries after their creation. One such work is Samuel Johnson's "Drury-Lane Prologue Spoken by Mr. Garrick," a poem that not only provides a glimpse into the cultural and social norms of the 18th century but also highlights the power of the spoken word and the art of theater.
In this literary criticism and interpretation, I will delve into the nuances of Johnson's masterpiece, exploring the themes, literary devices, and historical context that make it a timeless work of art.
Historical Context
To understand the significance of "Drury-Lane Prologue," it is essential to delve into the historical context of the poem. The 18th century was an era of significant change, marked by the rise of capitalism, the Industrial Revolution, and the Enlightenment. These developments led to a shift in cultural and social norms, with people seeking new forms of entertainment and leisure.
One of the most popular forms of entertainment during this period was theater, which provided a platform for artists to showcase their skills and entertain audiences. The Drury Lane Theater, where Johnson's prologue was first performed, was one of the most popular theaters in London, attracting audiences from all walks of life.
Themes
One of the central themes of "Drury-Lane Prologue" is the power of the spoken word. Johnson uses language effectively to capture the attention of the audience and convey his message. The poem is written in rhyming couplets, which help to create a musical rhythm and emphasize the importance of the words being spoken.
Another important theme is the role of theater in society. Johnson highlights the importance of theater in bringing people together and creating a shared experience. He also acknowledges the power of theater to educate and enlighten audiences, emphasizing that it is not just a form of entertainment but also a means of social commentary.
Literary Devices
Johnson's use of literary devices in "Drury-Lane Prologue" is masterful, with the poet employing a range of techniques to convey his message effectively. One of the most prominent literary devices used in the poem is personification. Johnson personifies the theater, describing it as "the great, the important day" and "the scene of action" to emphasize its significance.
The poet also uses similes to help the reader visualize the world he is describing. For example, he describes the theater as "a field of conquest" and "a realm without control," creating a vivid image of the power and importance of the stage.
Rhyme and meter are also used effectively in the poem, with Johnson using a regular iambic pentameter and rhyming couplets to create a musical rhythm that draws the reader in.
Interpretation
So, what does "Drury-Lane Prologue" mean? At its core, the poem is an ode to the power of theater and the spoken word. Johnson emphasizes the importance of theater in bringing people together, creating a shared experience, and educating audiences.
However, the poem is also a commentary on the changing cultural and social norms of the 18th century. Johnson acknowledges that society is changing, with people seeking new forms of entertainment and leisure. However, he also emphasizes the importance of preserving the art of theater and the spoken word, which he believes are essential to our cultural heritage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Drury-Lane Prologue Spoken by Mr. Garrick" is a masterpiece of literature that continues to inspire readers today. Johnson's use of language, literary devices, and historical context make the poem a timeless work of art that captures the essence of the 18th century while also providing insights into the power of theater and the spoken word.
As a literary critic, it is impossible not to be excited by the depth and complexity of Johnson's work. His prose is rich, his themes are timeless, and his use of literary devices is masterful. For anyone interested in the history of literature or the art of theater, "Drury-Lane Prologue" is a must-read.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
The Poetry Drury-lane Prologue Spoken by Mr. Garrick, written by Samuel Johnson, is a classic piece of literature that has stood the test of time. This prologue was written for the opening night of the Drury Lane Theatre in 1747, and it has since become one of the most famous prologues in history. In this article, we will take a detailed look at this prologue and analyze its significance.
The prologue begins with the line, "When Learning's triumph o'er her barbarous foes / First reared the stage, immortal Shakespeare rose." This line sets the tone for the entire prologue, as it highlights the importance of the theatre and the role it plays in society. Johnson is essentially saying that the theatre is a place where learning and culture can triumph over ignorance and barbarism.
The prologue then goes on to praise Shakespeare, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights of all time. Johnson writes, "Each change of many-colored life he drew, / Exhausted worlds, and then imagined new." This line is a testament to Shakespeare's ability to create complex and nuanced characters that reflect the many facets of human life. Johnson is essentially saying that Shakespeare was a master of his craft, and that his work will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.
The prologue then shifts its focus to the actors who will be performing on the stage that night. Johnson writes, "With him [Shakespeare] came mighty Dryden's powerful rhyme, / And Addison's grace, and Pope's correct sublime." This line is a nod to some of the greatest writers of the time, and it highlights the fact that the actors who will be performing on the stage that night are part of a long and storied tradition of great performers.
Johnson then goes on to praise the actors themselves, saying, "To-night our Shakespeare rises from his tomb, / And opens once again his sacred dome, / Where the vast throng, his numerous offspring, see / Their bard, their genius, and their deity." This line is a testament to the power of the theatre, and the way in which it can bring people together to celebrate the works of great artists. Johnson is essentially saying that the actors who will be performing on the stage that night are not just performers, but are also part of a larger cultural tradition that stretches back centuries.
The prologue then takes a more personal turn, as Johnson addresses the audience directly. He writes, "You too, ye Critics, your cold hearts refine, / And raise your minds to match the theme divine." This line is a call to action for the audience, urging them to engage with the performance and to appreciate the artistry that goes into creating a great play. Johnson is essentially saying that the audience has a role to play in the success of the performance, and that they should take that role seriously.
The prologue then ends with the line, "And, oh! Let Farquhar's fire thy bosom move, / And Southern's magic melt thee into love." This line is a nod to two of the great playwrights of the time, and it highlights the fact that the theatre is a place where emotions can be stirred and passions can be ignited. Johnson is essentially saying that the theatre is a place where people can come together to experience the full range of human emotions, and that this is what makes it such a powerful and important art form.
In conclusion, the Poetry Drury-lane Prologue Spoken by Mr. Garrick written by Samuel Johnson is a classic piece of literature that has stood the test of time. This prologue is a testament to the power of the theatre, and the way in which it can bring people together to celebrate the works of great artists. Johnson's writing is both eloquent and passionate, and it highlights the importance of the theatre as a place where culture and learning can triumph over ignorance and barbarism. If you have never read this prologue before, I highly recommend that you do so. It is a true masterpiece of literature, and it is sure to inspire and captivate you just as it has done for generations of readers before you.
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