VI. As to Dramatick Performances, Tragedy appear'd first. The Design of them was to show the Misfortunes of Life were Customary and Common. That thus the Fiction might reconcile them to the Reality ; and that what diverted them upon the Stage, might surprize them the less when they met with it in the World. Thus People see there's no living without Accidents ; Mortifications, and severe ones too, will happen; Kings and Princes can't stand clear of them. And to give the Stage-Poets their due, they have some sententious and serviceable Passages; as for Instance,
If I, and mine, are by the Gods neglected, There's reason for their Rigour.
Again,
Ne're quarrel Accidents, for Things are sullen, And don't regard your Anger;
Once more;
Fate Mowes down Life like Corn, this Mortal falls, And to'ther stands a while. [1]
These Instances may suffice, otherwise I might go on with them: Next to Tragedy, Old Comedy took a turn upon the Stage; And here Pride and Ambition was lash'd
- ↑ Eurip. Hypsipyl. See Book 7. Sect. 39. 41, 42.
