John Skelton

Definition

John Skelton was an influential English poet and playwright of the late 15th and early 16th centuries, known for his role in shaping the development of English literature and drama. His works often included satirical elements and addressed moral themes, reflecting the conventions of morality plays while also introducing more personal and political commentary.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Skelton's most famous work is 'Bowge of Court,' a satirical poem that critiques courtly life and the corruption within it.
2. He served as a tutor for the future King Henry VIII, which helped him gain influence and access to the royal court.
3. Skelton's writing style combined both Latin and English elements, showcasing his education and ability to appeal to diverse audiences.
4. He often used a playful, rhythmic verse structure that was innovative for his time and contributed to the evolution of English poetry.
5. His works reflect the transition from medieval morality plays to more complex forms of drama that began to emerge in the Renaissance period.

Review Questions

• How did John Skelton's work contribute to the development of English drama during his time?
  • John Skelton played a significant role in the evolution of English drama by blending traditional morality play elements with satire and personal commentary. His unique approach allowed him to address both moral themes and contemporary social issues, paving the way for future playwrights. Skelton's ability to engage with audiences through humor and critique helped establish a more dynamic form of theater that reflected the complexities of human experience.
• Discuss the thematic connections between Skelton's works and the conventions of morality plays.
  • Skelton's works share thematic connections with morality plays through their exploration of moral dilemmas and the struggle between good and evil. Like traditional morality plays, Skelton used allegorical characters to convey important messages about virtue and vice. However, he pushed these boundaries by incorporating satire and personal perspectives, allowing for a more nuanced exploration of moral issues that resonated with audiences beyond simple allegory.
• Evaluate the impact of John Skelton's literary style on the transition from medieval literature to Renaissance literature.
  • John Skelton's literary style significantly impacted the transition from medieval literature to Renaissance literature by introducing new forms of poetic expression and narrative complexity. His innovative use of rhythm and playful language attracted a wider audience while maintaining intellectual depth. By merging traditional morality themes with satire, Skelton influenced subsequent playwrights and poets, encouraging them to experiment with form and content, ultimately shaping the evolution of English literature during this transformative period.

Related terms

Morality Play: A genre of medieval drama that uses allegorical characters to teach moral lessons, often depicting the struggle between good and evil.

Allegory:

A narrative technique in which characters or events symbolize deeper meanings or moral lessons, commonly used in morality plays.

Satire:

A literary genre that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or societal norms.