Alexander Barclay (1476 – June 10, 1552) was a Scottish-born English poet, clergyman, and translator during the Renaissance. He is best known for his satirical poem 'The Ship of Fools', an adaptation of Sebastian Brant's German work, which critiques societal follies through allegorical voyages. Barclay's writings blend medieval moral traditions with humanist ideas, influencing English satire. He also translated parts of Virgil's 'Aeneid' and composed religious poetry. Later in life, he served as a parish priest and supported the English Reformation. His works reflect the transition from medieval to Renaissance literature in England.