Home > Literature Group > Discussion Board

This is a revised version of a previous question. I would just like to make it clear I am referring to the period from 1500-1800 in Europe specifically English literature from 1500-1650. Thomas More and Shakespeare would help.

This period is usually called the Renaissance. It represents a time of great rebirth of ideas. The plays of Shakespeare reflect the questioning of ideas in their conflict directly. Tragedies like "Romeo and Juliet" and "Othello" show social conflicts and taboos through forbidden relationships. Shakespeare's comedies too poke fun at the clergy, the army, and high society. Thomas More's death was a testament to the conflict between religion and society.