That this is a practice contrary to the rules of criticism will be readily allowed; but there is always an appeal open from criticism to nature. The end of writing is to instruct; the end of poetry is to instruct by pleasing. That the mingled drama may convey all the instruction of tragedy or comedy cannot be denied, because it includes both in its alterations of exhibition, and approaches nearer than either to the appearance of life, by shewing how great machinations and slender designs may promote or obviate one another, and the high and the low co-operate in the general system by unavoidable concatenation.
Samuel Johnson asserts that while some practices in criticism may be flawed, there remains a fundamental connection between criticism and the natural world. He believes that the primary goal of writing is to educate the reader, while poetry aims to educate through enjoyment. This dual purpose is essential for effective artistic expression.
Johnson argues that plays can merge elements of both tragedy and comedy, allowing them to convey complex lessons. By showing the interplay of significant and minor actions, as well as the collaboration of different social strata, drama closely reflects real life and the interconnected nature of events. This representation enriches the audience's understanding of human experiences.
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