Spenser, Edmund Authors: The Faerie Queene Edmund Spenser's (1552–1599) epic poem The Faerie Queene (1590) follows the adventures of a number of medieval knights. The poem, written in an intentionally antiquated manner, relies on history and folklore, notably Arthurian traditions. The work is divided into two parts, titled "Arthure's Realm" and "Idylls of King Arthur." It was published after Spenser's death by his friend and colleague William Shakespeare (1564–1616), who provided the preface. Spenser was born in Ireland but grew up in England. He was educated at Cambridge University and became secretary to Edward Herbert, Earl of Pembroke. It was here that he met William Shakespeare, with whom he shared many interests including poetry and theater. In 1589, Spenser traveled to Italy, where he enjoyed the sights and studied Renaissance art. Upon his return to England four years later, he began work on his great poem, which he completed in 1596. It wasn't until several years after Spenser's death that The Faerie Queene came out in print, with William Shakespeare again providing the preface. The poem is considered one of the first works of modern fantasy literature. It has been praised for its extensive use of allegory and its influence on later writers including John Milton (1608–1674).