Early Renaissance period:

The Early Renaissance witnessed a flourishing of prose and poetry, which played pivotal roles in
disseminating ideas, shaping intellectual discourse, and showcasing the creative talents of the era. Prose
during this period saw the emergence of influential works such as William Tyndale's English New
Testament, Miles Coverdale's complete English Bible, and Sir Thomas More's Utopia. These works not
only reflected the growing interest in scripture and the Reformation but also contributed to the
development of a standardized English prose style.
In the realm of prose, Roger Ascham stood out as a notable figure. His writings, including Toxophilus, or
Schole of Shooting and The Scholemaster, showcased his mastery of the English language and left a
lasting impact on the evolution of vernacular prose. Ascham's works covered diverse subjects, from
archery to education, and helped shape English prose during this transformative period.
Meanwhile, poetry thrived during the Early Renaissance, with Italian influences leaving an indelible mark
on English poets. Stephen Hawes continued the allegorical tradition, while John Skelton developed his
own vibrant style, employing satire to critique societal conventions. Italian poetry had a profound impact
on English poets, particularly through the Italianized court of Henry VIII. Sir Thomas Wyatt and Henry
Howard, Earl of Surrey, were at the forefront of this poetic movement, drawing inspiration from Italian
culture and reintroducing its lyrical and expressive elements to England. They popularized Petrarchan
love poetry and introduced the sonnet form to English literature. Surrey's translation of Virgil's Aeneid
also pioneered the use of unrhymed, ten-syllable verse, known as blank verse.
The publication of Tottel's Miscellany in 1557 marked a significant milestone in Early Renaissance
literature. This anthology, featuring the works of Wyatt, Surrey, and other poets, captured the spirit of the
new age, with its emphasis on humanism, the exploration of love, and the expression of individuality.
Tottel's Miscellany signaled the transition from the medieval literary tradition to the burgeoning
Renaissance period, heralding a new era of creativity and intellectual exploration.