Many Elizabethan era fictions were based on historical or mythological themes. Such as the Arthurian tales in 'Le Morte d'Arthur' which combined history, legend, and moral lessons. They also often explored moral and religious themes as society was very much influenced by the Church at that time.
Christopher Marlowe's 'Doctor Faustus' is also a significant work. It tells the story of Faustus who makes a pact with the devil in exchange for knowledge and power. It reflects the Elizabethan preoccupation with morality and the supernatural.
One of the most well - known Elizabethan fiction books is 'The Faerie Queene' by Edmund Spenser. It is an epic poem filled with allegory, knights, and magical creatures.
Edmund Spenser was a famous author of Elizabethan fiction. His 'The Faerie Queene' is a masterpiece of the era. It was not only a great work of literature but also had political and religious undertones, reflecting the values of the Elizabethan society.
They often feature complex courtship rituals. In Elizabethan era romance novels, love was not straightforward. For example, there were often elaborate dances and exchanges of sonnets as part of the wooing process. The characters were usually from different social classes, which added to the drama and tension. The language used was highly ornamental, with flowery descriptions of the lovers and their feelings. These novels also often had elements of adventure, as the lovers might face various obstacles like family feuds or arranged marriages that they had to overcome.
Edmund Spenser was also a significant figure. His epic poem 'The Faerie Queene' had romantic elements within it. Although it was an epic, it incorporated themes of love and chivalry that were characteristic of romance novels of that time.
Well, in Elizabethan crime fiction, one aspect is the use of language. The language is often elaborate and may sometimes be a bit difficult for modern readers to fully grasp at first. It's filled with period - specific terms. The settings are usually in the urban areas or the courtly environments of the Elizabethan times. There are also themes of revenge, honor, and justice which are deeply intertwined with the crimes and investigations. And the class differences play a huge role, as crimes committed by different classes are often treated very differently in these stories.
One key characteristic is the vivid portrayal of the Elizabethan era's social hierarchy. It shows the clear distinctions between the nobility, the commoners, and the poor. Another is the use of Elizabethan language and dialects, which gives an authentic feel. Also, it often focuses on historical events like the exploration of the New World during that time.
One well - known author is Philippa Gregory. She has written many novels set in the Elizabethan era. Her works often focus on the lives of women during that time and the political intrigue they were involved in.