Edmund Spenser was an English poet born in 1552, best known for his epic poem, The Faerie Queene. This work celebrates the virtues of knightly behavior and is notable for its unique verse form, the Spenserian stanza. Spenser's poetry often reflects themes of love, nature, and morality, and he played a significant role in the development of English literature during the Renaissance. Spenser was educated at Cambridge University and served in various governmental roles throughout his life. He was influenced by earlier poets like Geoffrey Chaucer and is considered one of the greatest poets of the English language. His works have inspired many writers and continue to be studied today.