14th-century England

Definition

14th-century England refers to the period in English history from 1300 to 1399, marked by significant social, political, and cultural changes. This era experienced the impact of the Black Death, the rise of the middle class, and the beginning of the English Renaissance, all of which influenced literary production, including the works of Geoffrey Chaucer.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 14th century saw significant turmoil due to the Hundred Years' War between England and France, affecting trade and society.
2. Chaucer began writing 'The Canterbury Tales' during this century, showcasing a range of social classes and perspectives.
3. The Black Death drastically reduced the population, leading to labor shortages and eventually rising wages for workers.
4. This century also witnessed the decline of feudalism as the economy shifted towards a more market-based system.
5. Political instability during this time contributed to a greater sense of nationalism, which was reflected in literature and art.

Review Questions

• How did the events of the 14th century shape the literary landscape in England?
  • The events of the 14th century, particularly the Black Death and social upheaval from the Hundred Years' War, created a unique context for literary expression. Writers like Chaucer were influenced by these changes, capturing a diverse array of characters and social commentary in works such as 'The Canterbury Tales'. The turmoil allowed for new voices to emerge and for literature to reflect the complexities of contemporary society.
• Analyze how economic changes during the 14th century affected social structures in England.
  • Economic changes during the 14th century, especially due to labor shortages from the Black Death, weakened traditional feudal structures. As workers gained bargaining power and wages rose, a new middle class began to emerge. This shift not only altered economic relationships but also led to changes in social mobility, allowing for more diverse representation in literature as seen in Chaucer's works.
• Evaluate how Chaucer's works reflect the broader cultural shifts occurring in 14th-century England.
  • Chaucer's works serve as a mirror to the broader cultural shifts occurring in 14th-century England by incorporating themes of class diversity, social critique, and individual perspective. His ability to capture a wide range of characters from different backgrounds illustrates the changing societal norms brought on by events like the Black Death and rising nationalism. This reflection not only highlights his literary genius but also marks a transitional period leading into the English Renaissance.

Related terms

Black Death:

A devastating pandemic that struck Europe in the mid-14th century, resulting in the death of a large portion of the population and leading to profound social and economic changes.

Feudalism:

The dominant social system in medieval England, where society was structured around relationships derived from the holding of land in exchange for service or labor.

English Renaissance: A cultural and artistic movement that began in the late 14th century, characterized by a renewed interest in classical learning and literature, which influenced writers like Chaucer.