Classical Influences and Revivals:
* Humanism: A central tenet of the Renaissance, humanism emphasized the importance of human reason, individual potential, and the study of classical literature. This led to the rediscovery and translation of ancient Greek and Roman texts, which influenced Renaissance writers.
* Imitation of Classical Forms: Renaissance writers often imitated the styles and forms of classical authors. This led to the revival of genres like epic poetry (e.g., Edmund Spenser's *The Faerie Queen*), tragedy (e.g., William Shakespeare's *Hamlet*), and comedy (e.g., Ben Jonson's *Volpone*).
* Neoclassicism: This movement promoted the adherence to classical principles of balance, order, and reason in art and literature.
New Techniques and Devices:
* Perspective: In visual art, perspective revolutionized representation. In literature, this sense of depth and perspective found expression through the use of interior monologue, stream of consciousness, and complex character development that explored the inner lives of characters.
* Sonnet: The Italian sonnet form, introduced during the Renaissance, gained immense popularity. Its strict structure of 14 lines with a specific rhyme scheme (ABAB CDCD EFEF GG) allowed for sophisticated expressions of love, beauty, and philosophical ideas.
* Blank Verse: Unrhymed iambic pentameter, a form derived from classical drama, became a dominant verse form in English Renaissance drama. Its natural rhythm and flexibility allowed for dramatic dialogue and poetic expression.
* Metaphor, Simile, Personification: These figures of speech were used extensively to create vivid imagery, explore complex ideas, and enhance the emotional impact of the writing.
* Allegory: Renaissance writers used allegory to convey moral and philosophical messages through symbolic characters and events.
* Theme of Individualism: With the renewed focus on human potential, Renaissance literature often explored themes of individual identity, ambition, and self-discovery.
* Themes of Love and Beauty: The Renaissance was a period of intense interest in love, beauty, and the human form. These themes permeated literature through romantic narratives, sonnets, and other poetic works.
Prominent Literary Figures:
* William Shakespeare: The most famous Renaissance writer, Shakespeare revolutionized English drama through his innovative use of language, characterization, and themes.
* John Milton: Known for his epic poem *Paradise Lost*, Milton explored themes of good and evil, free will, and human nature through a highly poetic and complex style.
* Christopher Marlowe: A playwright who wrote dramatic tragedies like *The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus*, Marlowe used vivid language and psychological depth to explore themes of ambition, power, and the human condition.
* Edmund Spenser: Author of the epic poem *The Faerie Queen*, Spenser employed allegory, symbolism, and an elaborate verse form to explore themes of virtue, chivalry, and the human experience.
* Ben Jonson: A playwright known for his satirical comedies, Jonson used wit, wordplay, and intricate plots to critique society and human nature.
This list is not exhaustive. The Renaissance was a dynamic period, and there were many other literary devices and techniques used. The creativity and innovation of this era have left an enduring legacy on Western literature.