Who created the first English translation of the Bible?

William Tyndale is recognized for creating the first substantial English translation of the Bible from the original Hebrew and Greek texts. His work began in the early 16th century and was notable for its clarity and accessibility, which aimed to make the scriptures available to the common English speaker, rather than only to those who could read Latin, the language of the Church at the time. Tyndale's translation laid the groundwork for later editions of the Bible, including the King James Version, and his use of then-contemporary English significantly influenced the development of the language.

The other individuals listed, while significant in their own right, were not responsible for the first English translation of the Bible. Edmund Spenser is known for his poetry, particularly "The Faerie Queene." Christopher Marlowe was a playwright and poet, recognized for works such as "Doctor Faustus." Mary (Sidney) Herbert, also significant in the literary field, is known for her translations and her contributions to poetry, but she did not translate the Bible into English. Thus, Tyndale's pioneering effort remains the crucial milestone in the history of English translations of the Bible.