How did Of Dramatick Poesie defend English drama?

In his 1668 work, Of Dramatick Poesie, an Essay, John Dryden defends English drama by engaging in a sophisticated, exploratory dialogue between four characters representing different critical perspectives.1

Rather than relying on rigid dogmatism, Dryden uses this discussion to challenge the conventional superiority of ancient Classical drama and Neoclassical French theatre. His defense is characterized by several key approaches:1

• Questioning Rules: Dryden approaches the "rules" of drama—such as the unities of time, place, and action—with honesty, questioning their necessity and function rather than accepting them as absolute prescriptions.2
• Valuing English Practice: He explicitly defends the English tradition of mixing comedy and tragedy, a practice exemplified by William Shakespeare, which stood in contrast to the stricter, more uniform standards favored by French critics.2
• Broadening the Scope: By breaking down the oppositions between ancient and modern, and French and English styles, Dryden deepens the critical conversation, moving it toward a more speculative and analytical framework.1

Ultimately, the essay is considered the first substantial piece of modern dramatic criticism, notable for its judicious, informal style and its refusal to be constrained by theoretical prescriptions.1