Which poet is known for "An Essay on Criticism"?

The poem "An Essay on Criticism" is attributed to Alexander Pope, a leading figure of the Augustan age in English literature. This work, published in 1709, is a seminal piece that blends philosophical insight with poetic form, presenting a series of reflections on the nature of poetry and criticism. It is renowned for its famous couplets and its advocacy for artistic standards that rely on reason and decorum.

Pope's approach in this essay is notable for emphasizing the importance of understanding the rules of poetry and criticism as a means to create and appreciate art more effectively. He argues that true artistic taste is achieved through knowledge, cautioning against the pitfalls of both ignorance and excessive ambition. This foundational text has lasting significance, influencing not only fellow poets and critics but also the broader landscape of literary discussion and thought.

In contrast, the other poets listed—Samuel Johnson, John Milton, and Thomas Gray—are associated with different works and contributions to literature. Johnson is known for his essays and the dictionary he compiled, Milton is celebrated for his epic "Paradise Lost," and Gray is most famously linked to "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard." Each of these writers made profound contributions to English literature, but "An Essay on Criticism"