Middle ages author bios

Wyatt

Ambassador for Henry VIII, imprisoned twice, introduced love sonnets from Italy to England.

Surrey

Soldier for Henry VIII, executed likely to prevent a claim on the throne, known for poems given to friends.

Raleigh

Captain of Queen Elizabeth’s guard, executed for treason after Elizabeth's death due to political enemies.

Spenser

Leading poet of the time, known for 'Faerie Queen', served the Earl of Leicester, buried in Poet’s Corner.

Marlowe

Famous playwright, spy for Elizabeth, controversial figure who died under mysterious circumstances.

Shakespeare

Notable playwright, married Anne Hathaway, maintained a love triangle; part owner of the Globe theater.

Donne

Father of metaphysical poetry, jailed for secret marriage, became a pastor under King James.

Jonson

Famous dramatist and friend of Shakespeare; viewed plays as serious art; escaped hanging by showing literacy.

Herrick

Poet inspired by Latin poetry, lived as a bachelor, became a pastor.

Milton

Aspirational poet, political advocate for free press, served government under Cromwell, lost eyesight.

Marvel

Assistant to Milton, involved in foreign correspondence; published posthumously by his housekeeper.