Historical overview of English literature

3. 3- Renaissance literature: 1486-1625

After the introduction of the printing press into England by William Caxton in 1476, vernacular literature blossomed. The Reformation also helped in the production of vernacular liturgy which led to the Book of Common Prayer, with an immense influence on literary English language. The poetry, drama, and prose produced during the reign of: Queen Elizabeth I and King James I constitutes what is known as early modern (or Renaissance) literature.