Introduction

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of the topics surveyed in the volume as a whole. After acknowledging the pervasive influence and significance of Chaucer for fifteenth-century poetry, it goes on to situate the writing of verse in a range of contexts—historical, social, and cultural. It examines the various milieux in which poetry was produced and considers the range of patrons who were instrumental in its creation. The chapter then identifies some of the forms of regional difference that had a bearing on poetic composition. It also considers the significant continuities and innovations that can be seen in the verse of this century. The chapter describes the critical rehabilitation over the past fifty years of the literary achievements of the fifteenth century, before concluding with a summary account of the organizing principles and contents of the volume.