Dennis, John (1657-1734)

English critic and dramatist. He contributed to neoclassical literary theory in such works as The Grounds of Criticism in Poetry (1704). ‘An Essay on the Genius and Writings of Shakespeare’ (1712) also reveals some insight into Shakespeare's achievements. His adaptations of The Merry Wives of Windsor and Coriolanus, however, typify the excesses of the 18th century. His own plays were unsuccessful.