In 1204, the Fourth Crusade culminated in the establishment of the Latin Empire of Constantinople, following the sack of the city. This marked a significant geopolitical shift, as Western European powers sought to dominate the Eastern Mediterranean. The empire lasted until 1261, influencing trade, culture, and politics in the region, particularly in the Balkans and Asia Minor, and reshaping the relationship between the East and West.

The establishment of the Latin Empire fostered a blend of Latin and Greek cultures, impacting the literary landscape of the time. Poets like Geoffrey Chaucer later drew on the rich tapestry of Eastern influences, reflecting the complexities of cultural exchange. The period also saw the emergence of new literary forms that would resonate in the works of later poets, as the mingling of traditions inspired diverse poetic expressions.