Final answer:
The language evolved from Middle English to Early Modern English between the works of Ben Jonson (1598) and John Milton (1644), characterized by rich vocabularies, elaborate rhetorical devices, and a shift in linguistic norms reflecting cultural changes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Language Evolution in the Works of John Milton and Ben Jonson
Language has undergone significant changes between the periods of John Milton in 1644 and Ben Jonson in 1598. During the transition from Middle English to Early Modern English, the richness in vocabulary and rhetorical devices was particularly evident in the works of these authors. Milton's prose, as seen in his 1644 treatises, showcases intricate sentence structures and a lexicon filled with Latin influence. Conversely, Ben Jonson's work, slightly earlier, was expressive yet starting to reflect the natural evolution of the vernacular towards Early Modern English.
Theatre played a crucial role in popularizing this form of language, with Shakespeare being a prominent figure. His works often included complex language, traditional stories, and introduced new words and concepts to the English language. The Shakespearean language was sophisticated, known for its depth of emotion and wordplay. Audiences of the time, as well as today's readers, sometimes struggle with these older forms of English due to changes in word usage and meanings over time.
Understanding historical texts like those from the Renaissance involves appreciating changes in language over time. The shift in linguistic norms from the 16th to 17th century reflected cultural, intellectual, and societal transformations, as seen through the linguistic prowess of poets like John Donne. Donne's work, along with others from the era, often reacted to and reflected upon the changing world around them, indicating not just literary but also broader cultural shifts.