A Restoration-era wordsmith who penned plays and poems, known for his biting satire and witty dialogue. His works often poked fun at the excesses of the upper class.
Elkanah Settle, born on February 1, 1648, is renowned for his remarkable contributions to English literature as a poet and playwright. He is particularly known for his tragic plays, which brought him both fame and controversy, as well as his innovative approach to publishing and self-promotion.
Settle was born in Dunstable, England, and entered Trinity College, Oxford, in 1666. Although he never took a degree, his early education laid the foundation for his future literary pursuits.
Settle's first tragedy, Cambyses, King of Persia, was produced at Lincolns Inn Fields in 1667, gaining him recognition and the support of the Earl of Rochester. This led to the production of his most famous work, The Empress of Morocco, in 1673, which was performed twice at Whitehall and became a huge success. The play's innovative printing, featuring cuts and illustrations, made it a valuable and sought-after publication.
The success of The Empress of Morocco sparked a bitter rivalry with John Dryden, a prominent poet and playwright of the time. Dryden, along with John Crowne and Thomas Shadwell, wrote an abusive pamphlet, Notes and Observations on the Empress of Morocco, to which Settle responded with Some Notes and Observations on the Empress of Morocco revised. This public feud continued, with Dryden even referencing Settle as "Doeg" in his poem Absalom and Achitophel.
Settle's active role in the anti-popish agitation led him to abandon politics and focus on his writing. In 1691, he was appointed city poet, a position that allowed him to flourish as a writer. He developed a unique business strategy, writing occasional poems and having them bound in ornate armorial bindings, which he would send to wealthy patrons whose arms he used. This lucrative practice earned him a reputation as a skilled and entrepreneurial writer.
Elkanah Settle's contributions to English literature are multifaceted and profound. His innovative approach to publishing and self-promotion paved the way for future writers. His works, although sometimes controversial, showcased his mastery of the tragic genre and his ability to engage audiences. Settle's legacy extends beyond his literary accomplishments, as he represents a unique figure in 17th-century England, who navigated the complexities of politics, patronage, and literary rivalries.
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Restoration-era playwright and poet renowned for witty, satirical comedies of manners that continue to influence English literature and theatre. His works remain popular for their clever dialogue and insight into human nature.
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