Ludovico Ariosto (8 September 1474 – 6 July 1533) was an Italian poet, renowned for his epic romance Orlando Furioso (1516). This poem continues the narrative of Matteo Maria Boiardo's Orlando Innamorato, portraying the adventures of Charlemagne, Orlando, and the Franks in their battles against the Saracens, while incorporating various sideplots. Significantly, the poem transforms into a satirical examination of the chivalric tradition. Ariosto employed the ottava rima rhyme scheme and included narrative commentary throughout his work.

Ariosto is also notable for coining the term "humanism" (in Italian, umanesimo), reflecting his focus on the strengths and potential of humanity rather than merely its role as subordinate to God. This concept was a cornerstone of Renaissance humanism.