John DonneRegarded by many as the greatest of the Metaphysical poets, John Donne (1572 1631) was also among the most intriguing figures of the Elizabethan age. Regarded by many as the greatest of the Metaphysical poets, John Donne (1572 1631) was also among the most intriguing figures of the Elizabethan age. A sensualist who composed erotic and playful love poetry in his youth, he was raised a Catholic but later became one of the most admired Protestant