Why was satire popular in the age of Dryden and Pope? [British Poetry]

 Satire was popular in the age of Dryden and Pope (17th and 18th centuries) for a few reasons:

Political and social commentary: The political and social climate of the time was in a state of flux, with the rise of the middle class and the decline of the aristocracy. Satire provided a means for writers to comment on these changes and to criticize the excesses and flaws of the society.

The rise of the novel: The rise of the novel as a literary form provided a new platform for satire, as it allowed for a more detailed and nuanced portrayal of characters and their actions.

The influence of classical literature: The age of Dryden and Pope was also a time of great interest in classical literature and its ideals of reason, balance, and decorum. Satire, which often drew on the conventions and techniques of classical literature, was seen as a way of upholding these ideals.

The desire to reform society: Many writers of the time, including Dryden and Pope, believed that society needed to be reformed, and satire provided a way to expose its flaws and excesses in a humorous and non-threatening way.

The desire for wit and humor: Satire allowed for the use of wit and humor, which were highly valued in literature during this period. The witty and clever satire of Dryden and Pope was highly appreciated by their readers.

In conclusion, satire was popular in the age of Dryden and Pope because it provided a means of political and social commentary, it was in line with the ideals of classical literature, it was a way to reform society and it was well-appreciated by the readers for the wit and humor it brought to literature.