Book excerpt: A comprehensive study guide offering in-depth explanation, essay, and test prep for selected works by John Dryden, England's first Poet Laureate in 1668. Titles in this study guide include Annus Mirabilis, Upon The Death Of Lord Hastings, Absalom And Achitophel, The Medal, Religio Laici, The Hind And The Panther, To Anne Killigrew, A Song For St. Cecilia's Day, Alexander's Feast, The Wild Gallant, The Rival Ladies, and The Indian Queen. As a poet and playwright of seventeenth-century England, his work dominated The Restoration period. Moreover, he is most famous for his satirical pieces that focused on politics and British society. This Bright Notes Study Guide explores the context and history of John Dryden’s classic work, helping students to thoroughly explore the reasons they have stood the literary test of time. Each Bright Notes Study Guide contains: - Introductions to the Author and the Work - Character Summaries - Plot Guides - Section and Chapter Overviews - Test Essay and Study Q&As The Bright Notes Study Guide series offers an in-depth tour of more than 275 classic works of literature, exploring characters, critical commentary, historical background, plots, and themes. This set of study guides encourages readers to dig deeper in their understanding by including essay questions and answers as well as topics for further research.