Final answer:
Opinions may vary on whether a 17th-century roast is too harsh, but it is important to understand the historical context of strong language and criticism in literature.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks for a reaction to a 17th-century roast and whether it is too harsh to speak about other writers in this way. This is a subjective matter as opinions may vary. However, it is important to understand that writers have historically used strong language and criticism to express their views on other writers and their works. This can be seen in the example of Sir Philip Sydney's literary smack-down in response to critics of poetry and literature in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Ultimately, the use of harsh language and criticism in discussing other writers is a part of literary history.