What major transformation occurred in literature during the Renaissance?

The major transformation that occurred in literature during the Renaissance is primarily characterized by a shift from oral tradition to a written form. This period, which spanned roughly from the 14th to the 17th century, marked a significant transition as the invention of the printing press and the rise of literacy enabled a broader audience to access written works. Literature began to be documented in text, allowing for the preservation and dissemination of ideas, stories, and artistic expressions in ways that oral traditions could not provide.

This shift also facilitated the emergence of individual authorship, as writers like Shakespeare, Dante, and Cervantes gained recognition and established their unique voices through written texts. As a result, the written word became a prominent means of intellectual and artistic expression, allowing for greater creativity and personal exploration in literature.

The emphasis on collective authorship and the decline of poetry as a popular form are not as representative of the Renaissance as they don't capture the individual creativity and literary advancements of the time. Furthermore, the focus on historical accuracy over creativity oversimplifies the complexities of Renaissance literature, which often balanced historical narratives with imaginative storytelling. Overall, the transition to written literature significantly transformed how stories were told and received, reflecting the cultural and intellectual vibrancy of the Renaissance era.