The Protestant Reformation began in 1517 when Martin Luther published his Ninety-Five Theses, challenging the practices of the Catholic Church, particularly the sale of indulgences. This act sparked widespread religious reform across Europe, leading to the establishment of Protestant denominations and significant changes in Christian worship and governance. The Reformation not only transformed religious landscapes but also had profound social, political, and cultural implications.

The Protestant Reformation catalyzed a shift towards vernacular literature, influencing poets like John Milton and George Herbert to explore themes of faith, personal belief, and individualism. This movement laid the groundwork for a rich tradition of religious poetry that questioned established norms.