Canterbury Cathedral

Definition

Canterbury Cathedral is a historic church located in Canterbury, England, and serves as the mother church of the Anglican Communion. It is not only an architectural masterpiece but also plays a crucial role in 'The Canterbury Tales' as the ultimate destination for the pilgrims, symbolizing faith and spiritual journey.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Canterbury Cathedral was established in 597 AD and has been a site of Christian worship for over 1,400 years.
2. The cathedral is known for its stunning Gothic architecture, especially the impressive nave and the beautiful stained-glass windows.
3. Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, was murdered in the cathedral in 1170, making it a site of pilgrimage for Christians seeking healing and forgiveness.
4. In 'The Canterbury Tales,' the pilgrimage to Canterbury Cathedral serves as a framework for the diverse stories told by characters from various social classes.
5. The cathedral has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical significance and architectural beauty.

Review Questions

• How does Canterbury Cathedral serve as a symbolic destination for the pilgrims in 'The Canterbury Tales'?
  • Canterbury Cathedral represents both spiritual aspiration and a physical destination for the pilgrims in 'The Canterbury Tales.' It symbolizes their quest for redemption and enlightenment, showcasing their diverse motivations for making the pilgrimage. The stories shared by the characters reflect their individual experiences and beliefs, further enriching the significance of the cathedral as a focal point of faith and community.
• Discuss how Chaucer uses the setting of Canterbury Cathedral to explore social themes within 'The Canterbury Tales.'
  • Chaucer cleverly uses Canterbury Cathedral as a backdrop to highlight various social classes and their corresponding values through the pilgrims' tales. By presenting characters from different backgrounds, such as the Knight, the Wife of Bath, and the Parson, Chaucer addresses issues like morality, corruption, and societal expectations. The contrast between their stories showcases human nature's complexity and provides insight into medieval society.
• Evaluate the significance of Thomas Becket's martyrdom at Canterbury Cathedral in relation to its role in 'The Canterbury Tales.'
  • Thomas Becket's martyrdom at Canterbury Cathedral adds profound historical weight to its role in 'The Canterbury Tales.' This event transformed the cathedral into a pilgrimage site, drawing individuals seeking spiritual solace and healing. In this context, Chaucer weaves Becket's legacy into the narrative fabric of the tales, as characters not only seek storytelling entertainment but also reflect on themes of faith, redemption, and communal bonds forged through shared belief in divine intervention.

Related terms

Pilgrimage: A journey to a sacred place as an act of religious devotion, which is central to the narrative of 'The Canterbury Tales.'

Chaucer:

Geoffrey Chaucer, the author of 'The Canterbury Tales,' who used the pilgrimage to Canterbury as a frame narrative for exploring various themes.

Archbishop of Canterbury: The senior bishop and principal leader of the Church of England, historically linked to the importance of Canterbury Cathedral.