Crowne, John (c. 1640–c. 1703)

British dramatist, born in Nova Scotia, Canada. He found favour at Charles II's court, and his plays were successful, some being acted in the 18th century. His best work is the comedy Sir Courtly Nice: or, It Cannot Be 1685.

Other comedies are The Country Wit 1675, City Politiques 1683, and The Married Beau: or, The Curious Impertinent 1694; tragedies include The Destruction of Jerusalem by Titus Vespasian (two parts) 1677, Thyestes 1681, and Caligula 1698.