An Essay on Satire, Particularly on the Dunciad

An Essay on Satire, Particularly on the Dunciad, written by Walter Harte in 1668, critically examines the nature and significance of satire, with a focus on Alexander Pope’s poem, The Dunciad. Harte defends satire's elevated status against contemporary critiques, arguing for its role in social commentary and moral instruction. He positions The Dunciad as a sophisticated blend of epic and satire, emphasizing its artistic merit and importance in societal critique. This work is notable for its exploration of satire's lineage and its defense of Pope's contributions to the genre.