The parliament of fowls

Definition

The parliament of fowls refers to a poetic work by Geoffrey Chaucer, composed in the 14th century, that depicts a gathering of birds who come together to discuss matters of love and courtship. This allegorical poem serves as an exploration of human relationships and the complexities of romantic love, reflecting the medieval fascination with nature and chivalric ideals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 'The Parliament of Fowls,' Chaucer presents a dream vision where various birds gather on Valentine's Day to choose their mates, symbolizing the theme of love's complexity.
2. The poem includes discussions among different species of birds, each representing various aspects of society and love, showcasing Chaucer's use of personification.
3. Chaucer's work blends elements of classical literature with contemporary themes, illustrating the influence of both Roman poetry and medieval courtly traditions.
4. The setting in a natural environment reflects the medieval appreciation for nature and its symbolic relationship to human emotions and relationships.
5. This poem is also noted for its commentary on the role of women in love and relationships, revealing the cultural attitudes towards gender during Chaucer's time.

Review Questions

• How does Chaucer's use of birds in 'The Parliament of Fowls' serve to symbolize different aspects of love and society?
  • Chaucer employs various bird species to represent different qualities and perspectives on love, creating an allegorical framework that allows readers to explore complex themes. Each bird character embodies unique traits related to courtship and relationships, reflecting societal norms and individual desires. This creative approach enables a deeper understanding of love's multifaceted nature while engaging with contemporary issues during Chaucer's time.
• Analyze how 'The Parliament of Fowls' reflects medieval views on courtly love and its associated ideals.
  • 'The Parliament of Fowls' illustrates the medieval concept of courtly love by emphasizing noble pursuits and emotional struggles in romantic relationships. Through its characters' dialogues about choosing mates, the poem highlights ideals such as chivalry, devotion, and the complexities inherent in love. By embedding these themes within the context of avian allegory, Chaucer critiques and celebrates the romantic customs prevalent in his society.
• Evaluate the significance of nature as a setting in 'The Parliament of Fowls' and its impact on the poem's themes.
  • Nature serves as a crucial backdrop in 'The Parliament of Fowls,' symbolizing both the beauty and turmoil associated with love. The natural setting enhances the thematic exploration by creating an atmosphere where avian characters can engage in discussions about their desires and conflicts. This interplay between nature and human emotion enriches the narrative, allowing readers to appreciate how environmental elements can mirror internal struggles related to love and relationships in a broader cultural context.

Related terms

Geoffrey Chaucer:

An influential English poet known for his works such as 'The Canterbury Tales' and 'The Parliament of Fowls,' which helped shape English literature in the medieval period.

Allegory:

A literary device where characters or events symbolize deeper meanings or moral lessons, commonly used in medieval literature to convey complex ideas through narrative.

Courtly Love: A medieval European literary concept that idealizes romantic love, often characterized by nobility and chivalry, influencing many poems and stories of the time.