Classical and Christian Ideas in English Renaissance Poetry

This is a very useful book for students of literature and history, as well as the casual reader who wants a little help enjoying Shakespeare, Milton, Donne, or any of the other great writers of the English Renaissance. The 13 highly readable chapters on various aspects of English Renaissance poetry are all supplemented by excerpts from poetry and prose (ranging from the Bible, to Aristotle, to Virgil, to John Calvin, to John Milton) and a very helpful "Further Reading" section in the back. Highly recommended.

This book is an excellent reference source, not just for poetry, but literature during the 16th and 17th Cent in England. It lays out in very clear and concise prose the religious ideologies during the time shedding light on the poetry, drama, and prose of the time.