Medieval poetry refers to the body of poetic works created during the Middle Ages, roughly from the 5th to the late 15th century. This period saw the emergence of various forms and styles, including lyric poetry, epic poetry, and narrative poetry. Poets often drew inspiration from themes such as love, chivalry, and religion, reflecting the values and beliefs of their time. Notable examples of medieval poetry include the Chansons de geste, which are epic tales celebrating heroic deeds, and the works of poets like Geoffrey Chaucer and Dante Alighieri. Many poems were composed in vernacular languages, making them accessible to a broader audience, while others were written in Latin for scholarly purposes.