The period c. 1547-1660 is known as the 'early modern': it is the beginning of modern philosophical, political and scientific thought and conceptions of the individual and society. It includes the Renaissance, a term which refers to the rebirth of classical civilization and the flourishing of arts and literature. This module will introduce this time of extraordinary cultural change and conflict through close reading of important authors including Marlowe, Middleton, Sidney, Spenser, Jonson, Donne, Herbert, Philips, and Milton. It also offers the foundations for advanced study of early modern literature.