In 1371, the rise of vernacular literature began to take hold in Europe, as writers started to compose works in their native languages rather than Latin. This shift was particularly notable in regions like Italy and France, where poets and authors sought to reach broader audiences. The movement marked a significant cultural change, emphasizing local languages and identities.

The emergence of vernacular literature allowed poets like Dante Alighieri and François Villon to express their ideas and emotions in ways that resonated with everyday people. This democratization of literature contributed to the development of national literatures and paved the way for future literary movements, including the Renaissance. The shift also encouraged the exploration of local themes and narratives in poetry.