The Jacobean era refers to a period in English history that coincides with the reign of James I (1603 – 1625). The Jacobean era succeeds the Elizabethan age and specifically denotes a style of architecture, visual arts, decorative arts, and literature that is predominant of that period. The era took its name from the Latin form, Jacobus, of the name of King James II and VII.

In literature, some of Shakespeare's most powerful plays are written in that period (for example The Tempest) as well as those by John Webster and Ben Jonson. Ben Jonson also contributed to some of the era's best poetry, together with John Donne and the Cavalier poets. In prose, the most representative works are found in those of Francis Bacon and the King James Bible.

Historical eras | History of Britain