Who wrote the epic poem "The Faerie Queene"?

The epic poem "The Faerie Queene" was written by Edmund Spenser, who published this seminal work in 1590, with a revised edition appearing in 1596. Spenser's poem is notable for its intricate allegory and its exploration of virtues represented through the various knights and their quests. It is structured as a series of books, each focusing on a specific virtue, and is written in Spenserian stanza—a type of nine-line verse that he developed.

Spenser's work has played a foundational role in shaping English literature and is celebrated for its rich language and elaborate imagery. The poem reflects the social and political issues of Spenser's time, integrating themes of chivalry, morality, and the nature of true nobility. This context and the characteristics of his style distinctly mark "The Faerie Queene" as an iconic contribution to the English literary canon specifically associated with Spenser.