University Wits

The University Wits were a group of late 16th-century English playwrights and poets who were educated at Oxford or Cambridge. Key figures included Christopher Marlowe, Thomas Kyd, and John Lily. They significantly influenced the development of English drama before Shakespeare, introducing more complex characters, sophisticated plots, and elevated language. Their works helped transition plays from simple morality tales to more intricate narratives, ultimately shaping the future of English theatre. The Wits contributed to a vibrant literary culture and laid the groundwork for the flourishing of the Elizabethan stage.