By 1254, Scholasticism was becoming a dominant intellectual movement in European universities, particularly in Paris and Oxford. This method of critical thought sought to reconcile faith and reason, shaping theological and philosophical discourse. The rise of Scholasticism marked a significant shift in medieval thought, influencing various fields, including literature.

Scholasticism's emphasis on logic and debate influenced poets and writers to engage with complex ideas and themes in their works. The intellectual rigor of this movement can be seen in the writings of Dante and later Renaissance poets, who often grappled with philosophical questions in their poetry.