In 1495, the Aldine Press, founded by Aldus Manutius, began publishing affordable pocket editions of classical Greek and Latin texts. This innovation democratized access to literature and education, making classical works available to a broader audience. The Aldine Press played a crucial role in the Renaissance, promoting the study of classical antiquity and influencing the development of modern publishing.

The Aldine Press's publication of classics in 1495 made ancient poetry accessible to Renaissance poets, inspiring figures like Petrarch. This accessibility allowed for a revival of classical themes and forms, shaping the trajectory of European poetry and fostering a renewed interest in the literary heritage of antiquity.