Who is William Archer from The Art of Dramatic Writing and what is their importance?

William Archer's name is mentioned several times throughout the book, almost exclusively in the 'Character' section. He writes books similar to the author's and this guide, and excerpts from his works showcase a more pompous style. The author typically portrays him negatively. In response to his statement that one is only born with the ability to develop characters, the author calls this unscientific. He quotes Archer's book Playmaking, highlighting a section where Archer says a play can do without character, but not action. Then, he shows how Acher contradicts himself in the same book.