Here's why:
* Influence of the Catholic Church: Early English literature was heavily influenced by the Catholic Church. Religious themes, biblical stories, and the lives of saints were common subjects in early works.
* Anglo-Saxon Influence: The Anglo-Saxons, who migrated to Britain in the 5th century AD, brought with them their own oral traditions and poetry. Epic poems like "Beowulf" are examples of this influence.
While other influences existed, the Catholic Church and Anglo-Saxon traditions formed a strong foundation for the development of English literature.