Boldness is a mask for fear, however great

Boldness is a mask for fear, however great

John Dryden, a prominent English poet, playwright, and critic of the 17th century, was known for his bold and fearless writing style. However, despite his outward appearance of confidence and bravado, many scholars argue that Dryden's boldness was merely a mask for his underlying fears and insecurities.

One of Dryden's most famous works, "Absalom and Achitophel," is a political allegory that criticizes the political turmoil of his time. In this poem, Dryden displays a bold and unapologetic critique of the political figures of his day, using satire and wit to expose their flaws and corruption. However, some critics argue that Dryden's boldness in attacking these powerful figures was a way for him to mask his own fears of retribution and backlash.

In his critical essays, Dryden often defended his bold and controversial opinions with a sense of confidence and certainty. He was not afraid to challenge the prevailing literary conventions of his time, and his boldness in doing so earned him both admirers and detractors. However, some scholars suggest that Dryden's boldness was a way for him to hide his own doubts and uncertainties about his work and his place in the literary world.

Despite his outward appearance of confidence, Dryden's personal life was marked by struggles and setbacks. He faced financial difficulties, personal tragedies, and professional disappointments throughout his career. Some scholars argue that Dryden's bold and fearless writing style was a way for him to cope with these challenges and to assert his own sense of agency and control in the face of adversity.