The correct answer is Medieval Copyist Monks. Who took it upon themselves to copy the works of literature, philosophy, history, science and several other forms of knowledge of Western Civilization that were left from Antiquity in order to ensure their preservation. During centuries they transcribed and many times also translated all this knowledge into beautiful and elaborate medieval books that still exist today. The would wake up in the early morning and after their prayers and ablutions they would sit and spend hours copying and illuminating books and other types of manuscripts with the precious knowledge, all by hand and during the entirety of their lives. The Irish monks were especially active in the preservation efforts and these monks practically saved Western civilization.
One key difference between the critical acclaim received by Edgar Allan Poe and that received by Stephen King is that acknowledgement of Poe's skill came primarily after his death, while King has received numerous awards during his lifetime.
It's known as an allusion "An allusion is a figure of speech that makes a reference to, or representation of, people, places, events, literary work, myths, or works of art, either directly or by implication"
