Horace, a prominent Roman poet during the Augustan age, authored 'Ars Poetica' (The Art of Poetry). This work serves as a foundational text in literary criticism, offering advice on the craft of writing, the importance of unity, and the decorum required in dramatic and epic poetry. It has significantly influenced Western literary theory for centuries.

Quintus Horatius Flaccus, known as Horace, was a leading Roman lyric poet during the time of Augustus. His works, including the 'Odes' and 'Ars Poetica', had a profound influence on Western literature and literary criticism. As a Roman citizen, his writing reflects the cultural and political values of the Roman Empire, and he is considered one of the most significant figures in the history of Latin literature.

Dryden's 'An Essay of Dramatic Poesy' is a seminal work of comparative criticism. It features a dialogue between four characters who debate the merits of ancient versus modern drama, as well as French versus English theatrical traditions, thereby establishing a comparative framework for evaluating dramatic art.

In his 'An Essay of Dramatic Poesy', John Dryden discusses the neoclassical rules of the three unities (time, place, and action). While he respects the classical tradition, he argues against the rigid, dogmatic application of these rules, suggesting that they often stifle the natural creativity and emotional impact of English drama, which he believes should be judged by its ability to delight the audience.

Horace, a prominent Roman poet, maintained a significant relationship with Emperor Augustus and his close advisor, Maecenas. This patronage allowed Horace to focus on his literary pursuits, and his poetry often reflects the political stability and cultural shifts of the Augustan Age. The connection between the poet and the emperor was instrumental in shaping the literary landscape of the Roman Empire during that era.