What style of poetry did John Dryden contribute to as a significant form?

John Dryden is known for his significant contributions to the heroic couplet, a form that consists of rhymed pairs of lines in iambic pentameter. This style became extremely popular in English poetry in the 17th and 18th centuries and is characterized by its rhythmic and thematic elegance. Dryden’s mastery of the heroic couplet allowed him to convey complex ideas and emotions with clarity and precision, establishing a foundation for later poets.

His use of this form helped to elevate the English language in literary and formal contexts, enabling poets to express grand themes and narratives. The heroic couplet was used effectively in various contexts, including satire and drama, which Dryden skillfully employed, thus making his work crucial to the development of English verse. This influence set a precedent for poets like Alexander Pope and others who followed in the tradition.

The other styles mentioned, such as free verse, sonnets, and limericks, do not align with Dryden's primary contributions and focus within poetry. Free verse lacks the structured rhyme scheme and meter characteristic of the heroic couplet. The sonnet, while being a respected and significant form in its own right, was not Dryden's primary focus, as his works are mainly associated