Dryden reportedly wrote the play in the short space of a month; he wanted to produce a topical piece, since England was at that time at war with the Dutch Republic. It was dedicated to Lord Clifford, a member of the Cabal.
Dryden reportedly composed the play in a short period, aiming for a topical piece due to England's war with the Dutch Republic. It was dedicated to Lord Clifford, a member of the Cabal.