Literature and Humanism)
Q#01. General Overview of the age:
The Renaissance Age in English literature marks the rebirth of learning and culture in England.
The word Renaissance means “rebirth”, and it refers to the revival of classical Greek and
Roman knowledge, art, and literature. This period in England roughly spans from the early
16th century to the early 17th century.
The Renaissance brought a new way of thinking. People shifted from a religious and
God-centered medieval mindset to a human-centered outlook, emphasizing individual ability,
education, beauty, and worldly life. Literature became richer in themes, style, and language.
Division of the Renaissance Age:
This age is divided into:
● Early Renaissance
● Elizabethan Age
● Jacobean Age
It is considered the golden age of English literature, producing great writers like Sir Thomas
More, Sir Philip Sidney, Edmund Spenser, Christopher Marlowe, and William Shakespeare.
Main Features of Renaissance English Literature:
Following are the main features of the the Renaissance Age of English literature;
● Humanism: Focus on human emotions, intellect, and individual experience
● Revival of classical learning: Greek and Roman myths, history, and philosophy
● Growth of drama and poetry
● Rich and expressive language
● Interest in beauty, love, nature, and power
● Decline of medieval religious dominance