Geoffrey Chaucer

Definition

Geoffrey Chaucer was an English poet and author, often regarded as the Father of English literature, particularly known for his work 'The Canterbury Tales'. His writing reflects the cultural, social, and linguistic changes of Medieval England, marking a significant transition from Old English to Middle English.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chaucer was born around 1343 and died in 1400, living through significant events like the Black Death and the Hundred Years' War, which influenced his work.
2. He served in various roles throughout his life, including as a civil servant and diplomat, which provided him with insights into different social classes.
3. Chaucer's use of iambic pentameter and rhymed couplets helped to establish a poetic form that would influence later English poets.
4. His portrayal of diverse characters in 'The Canterbury Tales' highlights the complexities of society during the Middle Ages and addresses themes such as class conflict and morality.
5. Chaucer's contributions to literature were pivotal in legitimizing Middle English as a literary language at a time when Latin and French were dominant.

Review Questions

• How did Geoffrey Chaucer's life experiences influence his portrayal of social classes in 'The Canterbury Tales'?
  • Chaucer's varied roles as a civil servant and diplomat allowed him to interact with people from different social backgrounds. This exposure is evident in 'The Canterbury Tales', where he presents a wide array of characters from different strata of society, such as knights, merchants, and peasants. By capturing their distinct voices and perspectives, Chaucer reveals the complexities and conflicts within medieval society.
• In what ways did Chaucer's writing contribute to the development of Middle English as a literary language?
  • Chaucer's decision to write in Middle English rather than Latin or French marked a significant shift in literary tradition. His works, especially 'The Canterbury Tales', showcased the richness and expressiveness of Middle English, making it more accessible to a wider audience. By elevating this language to literary status through his innovative use of meter and rhyme, Chaucer paved the way for future writers to embrace it.
• Evaluate the impact of historical events during Chaucer's lifetime on his writings and themes explored in his poetry.
  • Geoffrey Chaucer lived during transformative times marked by events like the Black Death and political upheaval from the Hundred Years' War. These circumstances deeply influenced his writings; for instance, the societal shifts caused by plagues led him to examine themes like mortality and class disparity in 'The Canterbury Tales'. Additionally, these historical contexts provided rich material for character development and plotlines that reflect the moral dilemmas faced by individuals navigating an uncertain world.

Related terms

The Canterbury Tales: A collection of stories written by Chaucer, featuring a group of pilgrims who tell tales on their journey to Canterbury, showcasing a variety of social classes and perspectives.

Middle English: The form of the English language spoken and written between the late 11th century and the late 15th century, which Chaucer helped to popularize through his works.

Troilus and Criseyde: A narrative poem by Chaucer that tells the tragic love story of Troilus, a Trojan prince, and Criseyde, exploring themes of love, fate, and betrayal.