The English Renaissance, 1500-1620

"This book guides students through the historical contexts, key figures, texts, themes and issues in sixteenth- and early seventeenth-century English literature." "The English Renaissance, 1500-1620 sets out the historical and cultural contexts of Renaissance England, highlighting the background voices and events which influenced literary production, including the Reformation, the British problem, perceptions of other cultures and the voyages to the Americas." "Short biographical essays on key writers of the period explain their significance and explore a variety of perspectives with which to approach them. In-depth analyses of a number of well-studied texts are also provided, indicating why each text is important and suggesting ways in which each might usefully be read. Texts featured include Astrophil and Stella, Dr. Faustus, The Faerie Queene, Othello, The Tragedy of Miriam, The Unfortunate Traveller and Utopia." "The volume charts the intricacies of English Renaissance literature, taking in such themes as women, gender and the question of homosexuality; the stage; printing and censorship; and humanism, education and rhetoric. Attention is also drawn to current debates in Renaissance criticism, such as New Historicism and Cultural Materialism. Thus the book provides students with an unparalleled foundation for further study." "Fully cross-referenced, with a useful chronology, glossary and suggestions for further reading, this much-needed guide conveys the excitement of reading Renaissance literature."--Jacket.