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The book explores the transformative role of humanism in sixteenth-century England, highlighting its impact on social relationships. Alan Stewart argues that humanism elevated textual skills, allowing lowborn scholars to attain positions within noble households, fostering intimate yet precarious dynamics. This newfound closeness was susceptible to accusations of sodomy, reflecting broader societal anxieties. By examining these connections, Stewart contributes to modern gay scholarship, offering insights into the interplay between humanism, social mobility, and Renaissance art and literature.