Common: The Development of Literary Culture in Sixteenth-Century England

This book
This volume explores the development of literary culture in sixteenth-century England, arguing that the Reformation and the Elizabethan literary renaissance were driven by a common desire to make common the work of God. It examines the relationship between Humanism and Protestantism, democracy and the imagination, and the role of Greek in disturbing the old binary of elite Latin and common English. Translation is seen as the link between the Reformation and Renaissance, and the final part discusses the Elizabethan literary renaissance, including poetry, short prose fiction, and the drama written for the common stage.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 03 June 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate tapestry of literary culture that flourished in sixteenth-century England, exploring the profound interplay between the Reformation and the Elizabethan literary renaissance. At its core, the book explores the concept of "common" in both its shared and fundamental meanings, contending that the central driving force behind the English Reformation lies in the endeavor to unite the work of God, just as the English Renaissance was fueled by the desire to bring together the literature of antiquity and early modern Europe.

The central question posed by the volume revolves around the delayed emergence of the Renaissance in England, shedding light on the intricate relationship between Humanism and Protestantism and the ongoing tensions between democracy and the realm of imagination. Part One establishes a sociological imagination for literary culture during this transformative period by delving into the associations of "commonwealth" and related terms. It examines the profound impact of Greek language on the literary landscape before and during the Reformation, challenging the traditional binary of elite Latin and common English. Furthermore, the book argues that the Reformation's emphasis on making common is closely linked to a hostility towards fiction, which ultimately hinders the humanist renaissance that had flourished in earlier decades.

Part Two serves as the bridge between the Reformation and the Renaissance, highlighting the pivotal role of translation in fostering cultural exchange. The final part delves into the Elizabethan literary renaissance, encompassing poetry, short prose fiction, and the drama written for the common stage. Each section offers a rich and detailed examination of the literary achievements of the period, shedding light on the diverse voices, themes, and artistic styles that emerged during this vibrant era.

Through its comprehensive analysis, this volume provides a profound understanding of the complex interplay between religion, literature, and society in sixteenth-century England, offering valuable insights into the origins century. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Reformation and the Renaissance, shaping the cultural and intellectual landscape of Europe and beyond.

Weight: 556g
Dimension: 157 x 235 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192844811